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How to Connect PS5 Controller to PS5, PC, iPhone, Android and More

You can connect a PS5 DualSense controller to a PS5, Windows PC, laptop, iPhone, iPad, Android phone, Mac, Steam, or Steam Deck using Bluetooth or a USB cable. The exact steps are slightly different for each device, but Bluetooth pairing usually starts by holding the Create and PS buttons until the light bar begins flashing.

This guide shows how to connect a PS5 controller to each supported device, switch between multiple paired devices, and reconnect it to your PS5 after using it on a PC or phone. You will also find quick fixes for common problems such as the controller not appearing in Bluetooth, charging without connecting, or connecting but not working in games.

PS5 DualSense controller connected to PS5, PC, iPhone, Android and other devices using Bluetooth and USB

How to Put a PS5 Controller in Pairing Mode

To connect a PS5 DualSense controller through Bluetooth, you first need to put it into pairing mode. Make sure the controller is not connected by USB and that the player indicator is off before starting.

Once pairing mode is active, your PS5 controller can be discovered by supported PCs, phones, tablets, Macs, and other Bluetooth devices.

PS5 Controller Bluetooth Pairing Button Combination

Press and hold the Create button and PS button at the same time until the light bar starts blinking. The Create button is the small button to the left of the touchpad, while the PS button has the PlayStation logo below the touchpad.

Use these steps:

  1. Disconnect any USB cable from the controller.
  2. Make sure the controller is turned off.
  3. Press and hold the Create + PS buttons together.
  4. Wait until the light bar begins blinking.
  5. Open Bluetooth settings on the device you want to connect.
  6. Select the DualSense Wireless Controller from the available devices.

When pairing finishes successfully, the light bar briefly changes and the player indicator lights up.

What the Flashing Blue Light Means

A flashing light bar while using Create + PS means the DualSense controller is searching for a Bluetooth device to pair with. At this point, open the Bluetooth menu on your PC, phone, tablet, or other supported device and select the controller.

If the light keeps flashing but the controller never connects, the receiving device may not be discovering it correctly or an old Bluetooth pairing may be interfering. We cover those problems later in the troubleshooting section.

PS5 Controller Compatibility at a Glance

The DualSense wireless controller works with PS5 and can also connect to supported Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Android devices through Bluetooth or USB. Some DualSense features may not work on every device or connection type.

Device Bluetooth USB Official Minimum Support
PS5 Yes Yes PlayStation 5
Windows PC Yes Yes Windows 10 64-bit
Windows 11 PC/Laptop Yes Yes Windows 11
Mac Yes Yes macOS Big Sur 11.3
iPhone Yes Yes on supported setups iOS 14.5
iPad Yes Yes on supported setups iPadOS 14.5
Android Phone/Tablet Yes Yes Android 12
Apple TV Yes Yes on supported setups tvOS 14.5

For example, adaptive triggers are not supported on Android-based mobile devices, while haptic feedback on PC may require a USB connection and game support. We cover the important feature differences later in this guide.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to PS5

The easiest way to connect a PS5 controller to a PS5 depends on whether it is a new controller, an additional controller, or one you previously paired with another device.

For a new DualSense, Sony recommends starting with a USB connection. Additional or previously paired controllers can also be connected wirelessly in supported situations.

How to Connect a New PS5 Controller With USB

When using a DualSense with your PS5 for the first time, connect it directly to the console with a compatible USB cable.

  1. Turn on your PS5 console.
  2. Connect the DualSense controller to the PS5 with a USB cable.
  3. Press the PS button on the controller.
  4. Wait for the light bar to blink and the player indicator to light up.
  5. Once paired, disconnect the cable if you want to use the controller wirelessly.

Sony recommends the USB pairing method for first-time setup. After pairing, the controller can be used wirelessly as long as it has enough battery charge.

If a cable charges the controller but does not pair it, try a charge-and-sync or charging-and-data USB cable. Sony notes that charge-only cables cannot be used for this type of connection.

How to Connect Another PS5 Controller Wirelessly

You can pair a second DualSense without plugging it into the PS5, but you need an already connected controller to open the Bluetooth settings.

  1. Make sure the new controller is turned off and disconnect any USB cable.
  2. On the connected controller, open Settings > Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories.
  3. On the new controller, hold the Create + PS buttons together.
  4. Wait for its light bar to start blinking.
  5. Select the new controller from the Bluetooth Accessories screen.
  6. Wait until its player indicator lights up.

This method is useful when adding another controller for local multiplayer without connecting it by USB first.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to PS5 Without a Cord

Yes, a PS5 controller can be connected without a cord in some situations. If another controller is already connected, use it to open Settings > Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories, then put the new DualSense into pairing mode with Create + PS.

If your DualSense already has the PS5 saved in one of its newer multi-device pairing slots, you can switch back to that slot with its assigned PS button and action button combination instead of pairing again.

For a completely new controller when you cannot access the PS5 settings with another controller, the USB method remains the simplest official setup method.

How to Reconnect PS5 Controller After Using It With PC or Phone

If you used your DualSense on a PC, iPhone, Android phone, or another device, the standard way to reconnect it to PS5 is to connect it to the console with a compatible USB cable and press the PS button. You can remove the cable after pairing finishes.

Newer DualSense multi-device pairing also lets one controller remember up to four different pairings. If your PS5 has already been assigned to a slot, you can switch back to it using the matching PS + action button combination instead of setting up Bluetooth again.

We explain all four pairing slots and how to switch between PS5, PC, and phone later in this guide.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to PC

You can connect a PS5 DualSense controller to a PC with either a USB cable or Bluetooth. Sony officially supports DualSense connections on 64-bit Windows 10 and Windows 11, although some controller features depend on the game and connection type.

USB is the quickest option if you want a simple wired connection. Bluetooth is better when you want to play without a cable.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to PC With USB

A wired connection requires a USB cable with a USB-C connector on the controller side. Windows normally detects the controller automatically after you connect it.

  1. Turn on your Windows PC.
  2. Connect the USB-C end of the cable to the DualSense controller.
  3. Connect the other end to a compatible USB port on your PC.
  4. Wait a few seconds while Windows detects the controller.
  5. Open your game, launcher, or controller settings to confirm it works.

A wired connection is also useful because some DualSense features have better PC support over USB. Sony notes that haptic feedback may require a USB connection and must also be supported by the game.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to PC With Bluetooth

To connect wirelessly, your PC needs built-in Bluetooth or a compatible USB Bluetooth adapter. Microsoft confirms that a Bluetooth adapter can add Bluetooth to a PC that does not already have it.

  1. Disconnect any USB cable from the controller.
  2. Make sure the DualSense player indicator is off.
  3. Hold the Create + PS buttons until the light bar starts blinking.
  4. On Windows, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices.
  5. Select Add device > Bluetooth.
  6. Choose the DualSense controller when it appears.
  7. Wait for the player indicator to light up.

Sony uses the same Create + PS combination for first-time Bluetooth pairing on a supported PC.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to Windows 11

On Windows 11, open Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Devices, then select Add device. Put the DualSense into pairing mode before searching for nearby Bluetooth devices.

Select the controller from the available devices and complete the pairing. If it does not appear, make sure Bluetooth is enabled and keep the controller close to your PC while pairing.

You can also skip Bluetooth completely and connect the controller through USB if you prefer a wired setup.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to a Laptop

Connecting a PS5 controller to a laptop works the same way as connecting it to a desktop PC. Most modern laptops already include Bluetooth, so wireless pairing is usually the easiest option.

Hold Create + PS until the controller starts flashing, then open your laptop’s Bluetooth settings and add the controller. If the laptop has no Bluetooth, use USB or add a compatible Bluetooth adapter.

For gaming laptops, both USB and Bluetooth can work, so choose the connection that best matches the game or launcher you are using.

How to Check If Windows Recognizes Your PS5 Controller

First, open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Devices and check whether the DualSense appears among your connected devices. Windows normally installs newly connected hardware automatically.

You can also press Windows + R, type joy.cpl, and press Enter. Select the controller in the Game Controllers window, open Properties, and press buttons or move the sticks to check whether Windows is receiving input.

If Windows detects the controller but a game does not, the problem is more likely related to the game, launcher, or controller support than the Bluetooth connection itself. If you’re setting up the controller for emulation, see our guide to the best PS2 emulators to compare the top options for PC and other devices. Sony notes that DualSense can be used with games and apps that support compatible controllers, but feature support varies.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to Steam

Steam officially supports Sony DualSense controllers, so you can use a PS5 controller with many Steam games through either USB or Bluetooth. Some games support DualSense directly, while others may rely on Steam Input for controller compatibility.

The easiest method is to connect the controller first, then open Steam and check whether it appears in the controller settings.

Connect DualSense to Steam With USB

A wired connection is the simplest way to use a PS5 controller on Steam.

  1. Connect the DualSense to your PC with a USB data cable.
  2. Open Steam.
  3. Go to Steam > Settings > Controller.
  4. Check that Steam detects DualSense.
  5. Launch a controller-supported game.

Steam lists the DualSense as an officially supported controller in Big Picture mode. Some games can also use supported DualSense features directly through a wired connection.

Connect DualSense to Steam With Bluetooth

First pair the controller with Windows, then open Steam.

  1. Hold Create + PS until the light bar flashes.
  2. Open Windows Settings > Bluetooth & devices.
  3. Select Add device > Bluetooth.
  4. Choose the DualSense controller.
  5. Open Steam and go to Settings > Controller.
  6. Confirm that Steam recognizes the controller.

Once paired with Windows, Steam can use the controller wirelessly in games that support it or through Steam Input.

What to Do If Steam Does Not Detect Your PS5 Controller

Start by checking whether Windows itself can see the controller. If it does not appear in Windows, reconnect the USB cable or remove the old Bluetooth pairing and pair the DualSense again.

If Windows detects it but a Steam game does not, open that game’s Properties > Controller and check the Steam Input setting. Steam support also recommends confirming the game’s controller support level because some titles offer full support while others offer only partial support.

Also restart Steam after reconnecting the controller and make sure your DualSense firmware is up to date if detection problems continue.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to iPhone

You can connect a PS5 DualSense controller to an iPhone through Bluetooth and use it with compatible games and apps. Sony officially supports DualSense on iOS 14.5 or later.

For most users, Bluetooth is the easiest option because it keeps the controller wireless and does not require an adapter or cable.

Pair PS5 Controller With iPhone Using Bluetooth

First, make sure the controller is turned off and disconnect any USB cable. Then put the DualSense into Bluetooth pairing mode.

  1. Press and hold the Create + PS buttons together.
  2. Wait until the controller light bar starts flashing.
  3. On your iPhone, open Settings > Bluetooth.
  4. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on.
  5. Select the DualSense Wireless Controller from the nearby devices.
  6. Wait for the controller to finish connecting.

Apple confirms that DualSense enters pairing mode with the PS + Create buttons, after which it can be selected from the iPhone Bluetooth menu.

If the controller pairs but does not immediately connect, Apple recommends pressing and releasing the PS button once.

How to Disconnect or Reconnect the Controller

To temporarily disconnect the controller, you can turn off the DualSense by holding the PS button or disconnect Bluetooth on your iPhone.

If you want to remove the saved pairing completely, go to Settings > Bluetooth, tap the information icon beside the controller, and select Forget This Device.

To reconnect later, turn on the controller and select it again if required. If the pairing was removed, repeat the Create + PS Bluetooth pairing process.

Newer DualSense firmware can also save up to four device pairings, which makes switching between an iPhone, PS5, PC, and other devices easier without setting up each connection again.

What DualSense Features Work on iPhone

The basic DualSense buttons and controls can work with controller-supported iPhone games and applications, including supported PS Remote Play use. Sony lists DualSense Bluetooth support for iPhone devices running iOS 14.5 or later.

However, not every PS5 feature carries over to the iPhone. Sony states that haptic feedback, the built-in microphone and speaker, and the controller headset jack are not supported on mobile devices.

Feature support can also depend on the individual game or app, so a controller may connect correctly even if a specific title does not support every button or DualSense feature.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to iPad

You can connect a PS5 DualSense controller to an iPad through Bluetooth or a compatible wired connection. Sony officially lists DualSense support for iPadOS 14.5 or later, although individual games and apps must also support controllers.

Bluetooth is the easiest option for most users because it keeps the controller wireless and only takes a few steps to set up.

Pair DualSense With iPad Using Bluetooth

Before pairing, disconnect any USB cable and make sure the controller is turned off.

  1. Press and hold the Create + PS buttons together.
  2. Wait until the DualSense light bar starts flashing.
  3. On your iPad, open Settings > Bluetooth.
  4. Turn Bluetooth on if it is disabled.
  5. Select the DualSense Wireless Controller from the nearby devices.
  6. Wait for the controller to connect.

Apple confirms that DualSense enters Bluetooth pairing mode with the PS + Create buttons. If it pairs but does not connect, press and release the PS button once.

You can also connect a compatible controller to an iPad with a wired connection. Depending on the iPad model, you may need a suitable cable or adapter.

PS5 Controller Connected but Not Working on iPad

If the DualSense appears as connected in Bluetooth but does not work in a game, first check whether that game or app supports external controllers. A successful Bluetooth connection does not mean every iPad game will accept controller input.

If the controller is not responding correctly, try these fixes:

  • close and reopen the game
  • disconnect and reconnect the controller
  • restart Bluetooth on the iPad
  • update iPadOS
  • update the DualSense firmware
  • go to Bluetooth settings, choose the controller, select Forget This Device, and pair it again

Apple also lets you check and customize supported controller settings under Settings > General > Game Controller on compatible versions of iPadOS.

Some DualSense features are limited on mobile devices, so the controller can be connected and working correctly even if features such as haptic feedback, the built-in microphone, speaker, or headset jack are unavailable.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to Android Phone

You can connect a PS5 DualSense controller to an Android phone using Bluetooth or USB. Sony officially supports DualSense on Android 12 or later, although controller features can vary by game and device.

Bluetooth is the easiest choice for wireless gaming, while USB can be useful when you want a direct connection or Bluetooth is causing problems.

Connect PS5 Controller to Android With Bluetooth

Make sure the controller is turned off and disconnect any USB cable before starting.

  1. Press and hold the Create + PS buttons together.
  2. Wait until the light bar starts flashing.
  3. Open Settings > Bluetooth on your Android phone.
  4. Choose the option to pair or add a new device.
  5. Select DualSense Wireless Controller.
  6. Wait for the controller to finish connecting.

Sony confirms that the DualSense enters Bluetooth pairing mode when you hold the Create and PS buttons until the light bar flashes.

Once connected, you can use it with Android games and apps that support external controllers, including supported PS Remote Play setups.

Connect PS5 Controller to Android With USB

DualSense also supports a USB connection on Android 12 or later. You need a compatible cable and, depending on your phone, possibly a USB OTG adapter.

  1. Connect the controller’s USB-C port to your Android phone.
  2. Unlock the phone and wait for Android to detect the controller.
  3. Open a controller-supported game or app.
  4. Test the buttons and analog sticks.

If your phone has USB-C, a suitable USB-C to USB-C data cable is usually the simplest setup. A cable that only provides charging may not carry controller input data.

PS5 Controller Connected but Not Working on Android

If Bluetooth shows the controller as connected but a game does not respond, first check whether the game itself supports external controllers. A successful Bluetooth connection does not guarantee controller support in every Android game.

Try turning Bluetooth off and on, restarting the game, forgetting and pairing the controller again, and updating both Android and the DualSense firmware.

Also remember that some PS5-specific features do not work on Android. Sony states that adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, the built-in microphone and speaker, and the headset jack are not supported on Android mobile devices.

If basic buttons work but those advanced features do not, the controller may still be connected correctly.If you’re using the DualSense for PS2 emulation on Android, our AetherSX2 vs NetherSX2 comparison can help you choose the better emulator for your setup. 

How to Connect PS5 Controller to Mac

You can connect a PS5 DualSense controller to a Mac using Bluetooth or USB. Sony officially supports DualSense on macOS Big Sur 11.3 or later, although available features can depend on the game and connection method.

Bluetooth is better for wireless play, while USB gives you a direct connection and can be useful for games that support more DualSense features over a cable.

Connect DualSense to Mac With Bluetooth

Make sure the controller is turned off and disconnect any USB cable before starting.

  1. Press and hold the Create + PS buttons together.
  2. Wait until the DualSense light bar starts flashing.
  3. On your Mac, open System Settings > Bluetooth.
  4. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on.
  5. Find DualSense Wireless Controller in the nearby devices list.
  6. Click Connect.

Once pairing is complete, the controller should appear as connected in your Mac Bluetooth settings. You can then open a game or app that supports external controllers.

If the controller does not appear, turn Bluetooth off and back on, move the controller closer to the Mac, and repeat the Create + PS pairing process.

Connect DualSense to Mac With USB

You can also connect the PS5 controller directly to a Mac with a compatible USB data cable.

  1. Connect the USB-C end of the cable to the DualSense controller.
  2. Connect the other end to your Mac.
  3. Wait for macOS to detect the controller.
  4. Open a controller-supported game or app.
  5. Test the buttons and analog sticks.

Depending on your Mac model, you may use a USB-C to USB-C cable or another compatible data connection. Avoid charge-only cables because they may provide power without sending controller input.

If the controller works in macOS but not inside a game, check that the game supports controllers and review its input settings before troubleshooting the Mac connection itself.

How to Connect PS5 Controller to Steam Deck

You can connect a PS5 DualSense controller to a Steam Deck through Bluetooth or USB. SteamOS supports external controllers, and Valve says Bluetooth controllers can be paired from the Steam Deck’s Bluetooth settings.

Bluetooth is better for wireless play, while USB is useful if you want a direct connection or Bluetooth is giving you problems.

Connect With Bluetooth

First, put the DualSense into pairing mode by holding Create + PS until the light bar begins flashing.

  1. Press the Steam button on your Steam Deck.
  2. Open Settings > Bluetooth.
  3. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on.
  4. Select the DualSense Wireless Controller from the available devices.
  5. Wait for the controller to connect.

Valve’s SteamOS guidance says Bluetooth devices should be placed in pairing mode first, then selected from the Bluetooth menu.

Once connected, open a game and check that the DualSense is selected as the active controller if the game does not respond immediately.

Connect With USB

You can also connect the DualSense directly to the Steam Deck using a USB data connection.

  1. Connect the controller with a USB-C cable.
  2. Plug it directly into the Deck or a compatible USB-C dock or hub.
  3. Wait for SteamOS to detect the controller.
  4. Open a game and test the buttons and analog sticks.

Valve confirms that Steam Deck supports controllers and other USB peripherals through compatible USB-C docks and hubs.

Use a data-capable USB cable, because some USB cables are designed mainly for charging and may not carry controller input properly.If you’re preparing your Steam Deck for PS2 emulation as well, follow our PS2 BIOS setup for Steam Deck for the emulator-side setup. 

PS5 Controller Not Working in SteamOS

If the controller appears connected but does not work, first restart the game and check the controller layout or input settings in Steam.

For Bluetooth problems, remove the saved pairing and pair the DualSense again. Valve recommends forgetting an existing Bluetooth device and repeating the pairing process when a connection will not work correctly.

Also update SteamOS and your DualSense firmware. Valve notes that controller Bluetooth problems can sometimes be improved by keeping device software and firmware up to date.

If Bluetooth keeps disconnecting, move the Steam Deck away from routers or other 2.4GHz devices. Valve specifically warns that 2.4GHz WiFi and some USB 3 devices can interfere with Bluetooth connections.

How to Pair PS5 Controller With Multiple Devices

A current DualSense or DualSense Edge controller can remember up to four different device pairings. This lets you switch between devices such as a PS5, Windows PC, Mac, iPhone, or Android phone without pairing the controller from scratch every time.

Before using this feature, update the controller firmware to the latest version. Also disconnect any USB cable before assigning or switching Bluetooth pairing slots.

DualSense Four Device Pairing Slots

Each saved device is assigned to one of four slots. The slot is linked to a specific PS button + action button combination.

Slot Button Combination Player Indicator
Slot 1 PS + Triangle One light
Slot 2 PS + Circle Two lights
Slot 3 PS + Cross Three lights
Slot 4 PS + Square Four lights

The number of player indicator lights shows which slot is currently being used.

How to Assign a Device to a Pairing Slot

You can manually choose which slot a device should use.

  1. Disconnect the USB cable from the controller.
  2. Make sure the light bar and player indicator are off.
  3. Hold the action button for the slot you want and the PS button for more than 5 seconds.
  4. Wait for the light bar and player indicator to flash twice.
  5. Open Bluetooth settings on the device you want to connect.
  6. Select the DualSense controller from the detected devices.

When pairing finishes, the player indicator shows the number of lights that matches the selected slot.

You can also use the normal Create + PS pairing method. Sony says this automatically assigns new pairings to available slots in the order they are added.

How to Switch Between PS5, PC and Phone

Once the devices are saved, you do not need to open Bluetooth settings and pair again every time.

Turn on the device you want to use, then hold the PS button and the action button assigned to that device for about 3 seconds. Release them when the light bar and player indicator begin blinking.

For example:

  • PS + Triangle can switch to the device saved in Slot 1.
  • PS + Circle switches to Slot 2.
  • PS + Cross switches to Slot 3.
  • PS + Square switches to Slot 4.

You can switch slots while the controller is either on or off. If you simply press the PS button while it is off, the controller reconnects to the last device you used.

What Happens When All Four Slots Are Full

If all four pairing slots already contain devices and you create another automatic pairing, the controller does not create a fifth slot.

Sony says the pairing in the slot you have not connected to for the longest time is replaced by the new device.

If you regularly switch between a PS5, PC, phone, and another device, assigning the four slots manually can make it easier to remember exactly which button combination connects to each one.

USB vs Bluetooth for PS5 Controller

Both USB and Bluetooth work well for connecting a DualSense controller, but the better option depends on the device and the features you want.

Bluetooth gives you a cleaner wireless setup, while USB keeps the controller connected and charging. On Windows PCs, some advanced DualSense features can also require a USB connection.

Feature USB Connection Bluetooth Connection
Cable required Yes No
Wireless play No Yes
Charges while playing Yes No
Setup Plug in and detect Requires first-time pairing
PC haptic feedback Supported in compatible games May not be available
PC/Mac headset jack Supported through wired connection Not supported through the controller jack
Best for Stable connection and advanced PC features Convenient wireless gaming

For normal gaming, Bluetooth is usually more convenient. If a PC game supports advanced DualSense features such as haptic feedback, USB may be the better choice.

Which DualSense Features Work on Each Device?

DualSense can connect to PS5, Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Android, but not every controller feature works on every platform.

Sony notes that feature availability can also depend on the game or app, so the table below shows the general level of official support rather than promising that every game will use each feature.

DualSense Feature PS5 Windows PC Mac iPhone / iPad Android
Basic controller input Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Adaptive triggers Yes Game-dependent Game-dependent Game-dependent No
Haptic feedback Yes Game-dependent, USB required No No No
Built-in microphone Yes Game-dependent No No No
Built-in speaker Yes Game-dependent No No No
Headset jack Yes Wired connection required Wired connection required No No

Sony specifically states that adaptive triggers are not compatible with Android-based mobile devices. Haptic feedback is unavailable on Mac and mobile devices, while on PC it requires game support and a USB connection.

The built-in microphone and speaker can work on Windows PC when supported by the game. The controller’s headset jack requires a wired connection on PC and Mac and is not supported on mobile devices.

How to Update PS5 Controller Firmware

Keeping the DualSense firmware updated can improve compatibility, add controller features, and help with connection problems. You can update it directly through a PS5 or from a supported Windows PC.

Update DualSense on PS5

DualSense updates are normally delivered alongside PS5 system software updates. If an update is available, the console may ask you to install it after the controller is connected.

You can also check manually:

  1. Turn on your PS5 and connect the controller.
  2. Open Settings.
  3. Select Accessories.
  4. Open Controller (General).
  5. Select DualSense Wireless Controller Device Software.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions if an update is available.

Sony recommends keeping both the PS5 system software and controller device software on the latest version.

Update DualSense on Windows PC

You do not need a PS5 to update DualSense firmware. Sony provides the PlayStation Accessories app for supported Windows PCs.

  1. Download and install PlayStation Accessories from PlayStation.
  2. Open the app on your Windows PC.
  3. Connect your DualSense controller.
  4. Select the controller when it appears.
  5. Install the available firmware update and follow the on-screen instructions.

Do not disconnect the controller or shut down the PC while an update is being installed. After the update finishes, reconnect the controller to the device you want to use and test it again.

PS5 Controller Won't Connect? Try These Fixes

If your PS5 controller won’t connect, first check the battery, connection method, and save Bluetooth pairing. Many problems can be fixed by reconnecting the controller, trying a data-capable USB cable, or updating its firmware.

If those steps fail, Sony recommends resetting the DualSense controller and pairing it again.

PS5 Controller Not Showing in Bluetooth

If the DualSense does not appear in the Bluetooth device list, make sure it is actually in pairing mode.

  1. Disconnect any USB cable.
  2. Turn the controller off.
  3. Hold Create + PS until the light bar starts flashing.
  4. Turn Bluetooth off and back on on your device.
  5. Search for the controller again.

If an old DualSense entry is already saved, remove it before trying again. Also keep the controller close to the device during the initial pairing.

PS5 Controller Connected but Not Working

A controller can show as connected even when a particular game does not accept its input. First check whether the game or application supports external controllers.

On Windows, press Windows + R, enter joy.cpl, and test the buttons and sticks. If Windows receives input but the game does not, check the game’s controller settings or Steam Input configuration.

On phones and tablets, test another controller-supported game or app. This helps separate a connection problem from a game compatibility problem.

PS5 Controller Won't Reconnect to PS5 After PC or iPhone

This is common after moving the DualSense between devices. Users can end up with the controller still trying to reconnect to a previously used phone or PC.

The simplest official method is:

  1. Turn on the PS5.
  2. Connect the controller to the console with a compatible USB data cable.
  3. Press the PS button.
  4. Wait for the player indicator to light up.
  5. Disconnect the cable after pairing.

If your PS5 is already stored in a multi-device slot, you can instead use its assigned PS + action button combination to switch back. Sony currently allows up to four saved pairings. 

PS5 Controller Charges but Won't Connect With USB

If the controller charges but the PS5 or PC does not recognize it, the cable may be the problem.

Sony specifically recommends using a “charge and sync” or “charging and data” USB cable. A cable marked as charge-only cannot provide the data connection needed for pairing.

Try:

  • another known data-capable USB cable
  • another USB port
  • connecting directly instead of through a hub
  • restarting the console or PC

This issue also appears frequently in real user troubleshooting, where one USB-C cable charges the DualSense while another is needed for data and pairing.

PS5 Controller Keeps Disconnecting

Start by fully charging the controller and testing it with USB. If the disconnecting stops while wired, the problem is more likely related to the wireless connection.

Then try:

  • removing and pairing the Bluetooth connection again
  • moving closer to the connected device
  • restarting Bluetooth
  • updating the controller firmware
  • restarting the PS5, PC, phone, or other device
  • resetting the DualSense if the issue continues

If the controller also disconnects repeatedly over a reliable USB connection, the cable, USB port, controller, or device may need further troubleshooting.

PS5 Controller Light Keeps Flashing

A flashing light bar during Create + PS pairing means the controller is waiting to complete a Bluetooth connection.

If it keeps flashing and never connects, open your device’s Bluetooth menu and check whether the DualSense is available. If it is not, cancel pairing, turn the controller off, and start again.

If this happens while trying to return to PS5, connecting the controller through USB and pressing the PS button is usually the quickest way to pair it again.

Remove the Old Bluetooth Pairing and Pair Again

A saved Bluetooth connection can sometimes stop a clean new pairing. Remove the old DualSense entry from the device and add it again.

The exact option varies by platform, but look for:

  • Windows: Bluetooth & devices > Devices > Remove device
  • iPhone/iPad: Settings > Bluetooth > controller info > Forget This Device
  • Android: Bluetooth settings > DualSense > Forget or Unpair
  • Mac: System Settings > Bluetooth > DualSense > Forget This Device

After removing it, hold Create + PS until the light flashes and pair the controller again.

How to Reset a PS5 Controller

Sony recommends resetting the DualSense when normal connection troubleshooting does not work. The reset button is inside a small hole on the back of the controller near the Sony logo.

  1. Turn off the PS5.
  2. Disconnect the controller from USB.
  3. Locate the small reset hole on the back.
  4. Use a pin or similar tool.
  5. Hold the reset button for at least 5 seconds.
  6. Connect the controller to PS5 with USB.
  7. Press the PS button.

Resetting the controller does not mean you need to reset your entire PS5 console.

Update the Controller Firmware

Outdated controller software can also cause compatibility or connection problems, especially when using newer DualSense features.

On PS5, go to:

Settings > Accessories > Controller (General) > DualSense Wireless Controller Device Software

You can also update a DualSense from a Windows PC using Sony’s PlayStation Accessories software. Sony recommends keeping both the PS5 system software and controller software current when troubleshooting.

If the controller still will not connect after re-pairing, testing another data cable, updating, and resetting it, Sony recommends using its PlayStation Repairs diagnostic service. 

Conclusion

Connecting a PS5 DualSense controller is usually simple once you know the right method. Use Create + PS for Bluetooth pairing, or connect with a data-capable USB cable when you want the quickest wired setup.

The same controller can work with PS5, PC, Steam, iPhone, iPad, Android, Mac, and Steam Deck, although some DualSense features vary by device and connection type. The newer multi-device pairing system also makes switching between saved devices much easier.

If your PS5 controller won’t connect, start by checking the cable, Bluetooth pairing, firmware, and saved device connection before resetting the controller. In most cases, re-pairing or using a proper USB data cable fixes the problem.



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