Modder builds handheld PS4 with 3-hour battery

A hardware modder has created a fully functional handheld PS4 that runs games natively and lasts up to three hours on battery, as reported by Video Games Chronicle. Reddit user Wewillmakeitnow spent months designing and building the portable console using a modified PS4 Slim motherboard, achieving what many consider the holy grail of PlayStation modding. The device is described as "stable, fully functional, and safe to use" by its creator.

Technical achievement behind the mod

The custom handheld PS4 centres around a heavily modified PS4 Slim motherboard that Wewillmakeitnow cut down to its essential components. "The goal was not only size reduction, but also better power efficiency and thermal behaviour by optimising the layout and removing unused section," the modder explained.

The device features a 7-inch OLED display — roughly the same size as a Nintendo Switch 2 — and supports resolutions up to 1080p. Unlike streaming solutions, this handheld runs PS4 games directly from the hardware, eliminating any input lag or connection requirements.

A custom cooling system with optimised airflow and heatsinks handles thermal management, whilst active temperature monitoring ensures the PS4's APU doesn't overheat under load. The modder also included an HDMI output, allowing the handheld to connect to televisions like a standard PS4 console.

Battery life and performance details

Battery performance varies depending on the game's demands. Under low to medium load, the handheld delivers up to three hours of gameplay, whilst demanding games reduce this to around 90 minutes. For extended sessions, the device can run whilst plugged into AC power.

The modder shared video footage demonstrating the handheld in action, proving the concept works as advertised. All standard PS4 features remain intact, including save data, trophies, and online functionality — essentially offering a portable PS4 experience without compromises.

Context amid PlayStation handheld speculation

The project arrives as rumours continue circulating about Sony's potential return to the handheld market. Whilst the PlayStation Portal offers remote play streaming, it requires a PS5 console and stable internet connection — limitations this mod completely sidesteps.

This isn't the first impressive console modification to surface recently. Last week, a Chinese modder created a 3-in-1 console housing PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch hardware in a single unit with shared power and cooling systems.

Wewillmakeitnow confirmed this was strictly a personal project with no commercial plans. However, the achievement demonstrates what's technically possible when enthusiasts tackle hardware limitations that manufacturers typically avoid for cost or market reasons.

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