Kinect PS5 Compatibility: Does It Work?
No, the Kinect/PS5 combination does not work. Kinect is a Microsoft accessory for Xbox 360 and Xbox One, and PlayStation has never supported it. For a PS5 camera, use the PS5 HD Camera for streaming and picture-in-picture, or the PS4 PlayStation Camera with Sony’s adaptor for original PS VR games.
| Camera | Works on PS5? | Main use |
|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Kinect | No | Xbox 360 and Xbox One only |
| PS5 HD Camera | Yes | Streaming, picture-in-picture, background removal |
| PS4 PlayStation Camera | Yes, with adaptor | Original PS VR games on PS5 |
| PS VR2 | Yes, no camera needed | Built-in tracking cameras |
Other accessory questions? Our PlayStation fix guide covers common PS5 problems.
Why Kinect Is Not an Option
Kinect used Microsoft’s own connector and drivers built for Xbox. PlayStation consoles have no software to read it, and Microsoft stopped making Kinect for consoles years ago. Even Xbox Series X|S does not support Kinect games. Adapters sold online cannot change that.
From our experience, people searching for Kinect on PS5 usually want one of three things: streaming with a face cam, motion games, or PS VR. Each has a PlayStation answer.
What the PS5 HD Camera Does
The HD Camera connects by USB and lets you appear in broadcasts and party video, with background removal options. Sony explains setup in its HD Camera setup guide. It is not a full-body motion controller like Kinect.
Using a PS4 Camera on PS5
The PS4 PlayStation Camera works on PS5 for supported PS VR games when connected with Sony’s PlayStation Camera adaptor. Sony confirmed this in a PlayStation Blog post on PS4 accessories, noting the DualShock 4 is also needed for some PS VR games.
How to Set Up a Camera on PS5
- Choose the right camera. HD Camera for streaming, PS4 Camera with adaptor for original PS VR.
- Connect it. Plug the HD Camera into a USB port, or connect the PS4 Camera through the adaptor.
- Place it. Put it on top of or below your TV, facing your play area.
- Adjust settings. Go to Settings, then Accessories, then Camera, to check the view.
- Test it. Start a broadcast preview or the PS VR setup to confirm it works.
Choosing between PlayStation and Xbox for motion and VR?
Our console comparison covers accessories, subscriptions and games.
Compare PS5 and XboxCommon Mistakes
- Buying Kinect adapters that claim PlayStation support.
- Expecting the HD Camera to track full-body motion like Kinect.
- Forgetting the adaptor for a PS4 Camera.
- Using a DualSense for PS VR games that require a DualShock 4.
Comparing controllers instead? See our PlayStation controller guide. Moving from PS4? Our PS4 vs PS5 guide covers what carries over.
Not sure which camera you need?
Tell us what you want to do with it. We will point you to the right setup.
Ask GamingFixFrequently Asked Questions
What is Kinect?
Kinect is a motion-sensing camera Microsoft made for Xbox 360 and Xbox One. It tracked full-body movement and voice commands for motion games. Microsoft ended console Kinect production years ago, and it never worked with PlayStation consoles.
Why does Kinect on PS5 matter to gamers?
Many players with old Kinect hardware want to reuse it, and parents look for motion games on PS5. Knowing that Kinect does not work saves money on fake adapters and points you to cameras and games that actually work with the PS5.
How do I check if a camera works on my PS5?
Connect it and open Settings, then Accessories, then Camera. A supported camera shows a live preview there. If nothing appears, check the connection, the adaptor for PS4 Cameras, and whether the camera model is listed by Sony as compatible.
Are there motion games on PS5?
Yes, but they work differently from Kinect. PS VR2 games use headset and controller tracking, and the DualSense has motion sensors used by some games. Full-body camera-based motion games like Kinect titles are not a focus on PS5.
Can I use a webcam on PS5?
The PS5 officially supports the PS5 HD Camera. Generic USB webcams are not officially supported for broadcasts and may not work. For reliable streaming with your face on screen, use the HD Camera or stream through a PC with a capture card.
