Modder Transforms PlayStation 4 Slim into a Portable Handheld Console

A YouTuber known as Restore Technique has taken on an ambitious project, revealing a 27-minute video about his custom PlayStation 4 handheld creation. Using a custom 3D-printed shell, specialized PCBs, a 7-inch screen, and the motherboard from a PlayStation 4 Slim, he managed to bring to life a fully functional handheld PS4. The device, measuring 249 x 156 x 49.2mm and weighing 1.7 kg, makes a strong case for being a superior follow-up to the PlayStation Vita, especially when compared to the streaming-only PlayStation Portal.

As Restore Technique explains in his video, this device distinguishes itself by utilizing a more robust console compared to the typical GameCube and Wii mods, or even the recent handheld adaptation of an Xbox. The PlayStation 4, coupled with similar PC hardware of the era, still supports a wide range of games, making this project more ambitious than the others. The Slim model specifically aids the project, thanks to its low-power design, making it easier to manage heat and power requirements.

Taking a meticulous approach, Restore Technique chose a power-efficient PlayStation 4 model. He resized the PCB by removing ports and components using advanced soldering techniques and a Dremel rotary tool to pare down the aluminum heat spreader. A smart addition was a fan controller to optimize cooling, even considering that overheating remains a potential issue.

The handheld also integrates a DualShock controller, with numerous wires rerouted from the controller’s test points to new positions around the device. The battery, a crucial component for such a device, is a custom-built 3S2P LiPo 12V 10,000 mAh pack. To safely manage both charging and gameplay, Restore Technique upgraded the DC power jack to a 10 Amp model. He also employed DC buck converters to handle the distinct 12V and 5V voltages, keeping the screen safe from excessive power.

In gameplay demonstrations featured in the video, you can see that the handheld performs well, managing to run The Last of Us for up to 86 minutes, although it’s clear that using it with the charger is ideal. Due to its high-power battery, though, air travel with the device might be challenging.

The thoroughness of Restore Technique’s project extends beyond just the electronics. From the initial extraction of the PS4 Slim motherboard to the multi-step prototyping of the “PS4T” shell—believed to stand for PlayStation 4 Transport—the process involved FDM 3D printing before creating the final resin shell with PCBWay, chosen for its suitability in high-heat scenarios.

Following the project’s initial assembly, Restore Technique faced thermal and power challenges, which caused glitches and lag in various games. By replacing the controller frames and enhancing internal electric shielding and heat dissipation, he eventually achieved stable performance without graphical errors.

This endeavor perfectly embodies the maker spirit, combining electronics, 3D printing, and soldering, along with a willingness to learn from mistakes. It’s a project well worth following for anyone interested in custom console builds.