Ultimate Guide to PS5 Controller: Troubleshooting, Updates, and More

Last updated Feb 22, 2023

The PS5 DualSense controller is generally considered to be of high quality and an improvement over its predecessor, the DualShock 4 controller. Here are some of the features and improvements of the DualSense controller:

Haptic feedback: The DualSense controller includes advanced haptic feedback technology, which provides more precise and realistic vibration feedback to the user.
Adaptive triggers: The DualSense controller includes adaptive trigger buttons that can provide varying levels of resistance depending on the action in the game.
Improved battery life: The DualSense controller has an improved battery life compared to the DualShock 4 controller, lasting up to 10 hours on a single charge.
Built-in microphone and speaker: The DualSense controller includes a built-in microphone and speaker, allowing for easy voice chat and game audio.
Ergonomic design: The DualSense controller has a comfortable and ergonomic design, with improved grip and more intuitive button placement.

The PS5 DualSense controller is a high-quality and innovative controller that provides a more immersive gaming experience for users.

PS5 Controller Not Charging? How to fix?

If your PS5 controller is not charging, there could be several reasons why. Here are some troubleshooting steps you can take to try and fix the issue:

Check the USB cable: Make sure that the USB cable you are using to charge the controller is in good condition and is firmly connected to both the controller and the power source.
Check the power source: Make sure that the power source you are using to charge the controller is working properly. You can try plugging the USB cable into a different power source to see if that resolves the issue.
Reset the controller: Use a small object like a paper clip to press the reset button on the back of the controller for a few seconds. Then, try charging the controller again.
Use a different USB port: Try using a different USB port on your console or computer to charge the controller.
Replace the battery: If none of the above steps work, the battery in the controller may need to be replaced. You can purchase a replacement battery online and follow a guide to replace it.

If none of these steps work, you may need to contact Sony customer support for further assistance.

How to Update Your PS5 Controller?

Updating your PS5 controller is a simple process that can be done in a few steps:

Turn on your PS5 console and make sure it’s connected to the internet.
Connect your PS5 controller to the console using a USB cable.
Press the PS button on your controller to turn it on.
On the PS5 home screen, go to Settings.
Select Accessories.
Select Controllers.
Select Update Controller.
If an update is available, you will see a message prompting you to update your controller. Select Update Now.
Wait for the update to download and install. This process may take a few minutes.
Once the update is complete, disconnect your controller from the USB cable and it’s ready to use.

Note: If you experience any issues during the update process, make sure your console and controller are fully charged and try again. You can also try restarting your console and controller before attempting the update again.

PS5 Controller Not Connecting to Console?

If your PS5 controller is not connecting to the console, there are several steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix the issue:

Make sure your controller is turned on: Press the PS button on your controller to turn it on. If the controller is turned off or out of battery, it will not connect to the console.
Check the connection: Make sure your controller is within range of the console and that the USB cable is connected properly to both the controller and the console. Try connecting the controller to a different USB port on the console.
Reset the controller: Use a small object like a paper clip to press the reset button on the back of the controller for a few seconds. Then, try connecting the controller to the console again.
Restart the console: Try restarting your PS5 console by selecting “Restart PS5” from the power options menu in the Control Center.
Boot the console in safe mode: Booting the console in safe mode can help resolve any software-related issues that may be causing the controller to not connect. To do this, turn off the console, then press and hold the power button until you hear a second beep. From there, select “Restart PS5” in Safe Mode and follow the on-screen instructions.
Update the controller: Make sure your controller is updated to the latest firmware version. You can do this by connecting the controller to the console with a USB cable and following the steps in the “How to Update Your PS5 Controller” section.

How to Update Your PlayStation 5?

To update your PlayStation 5, follow these steps:

Turn on your PlayStation 5 console and connect it to the internet.
From the home screen, navigate to the Settings menu.
Scroll down and select System.
Select System Software.
Select Update System Software.
If there is an update available, your console will automatically download it. If there is no update available, you will see a message saying that your system is up to date.
Once the download is complete, follow the on-screen instructions to install the update.
Your console will restart once the update is installed.

Note: It’s important to keep your PlayStation 5 updated to ensure that you have the latest features and security patches. Make sure to save any unsaved data before updating your console, and do not turn off your console during the update process. The update process may take some time, so be patient and avoid interrupting it.

How to Reset Your PS5 DualSense Controller?

To reset your PS5 DualSense controller, you can follow these steps:

Locate the reset button on the back of your DualSense controller. It is a small hole near the screw near the L2 button.
Use a small object such as a paper clip or toothpick to press and hold the reset button for about 5 seconds.
Release the reset button.
Connect the controller to your PS5 console using a USB cable.
Press the PlayStation button on the controller to turn it on.
The controller should now be reset and ready to use with your PS5 console.

Note: Resetting your controller will clear any stored settings or connections. If you are experiencing issues with your controller, such as connectivity or calibration issues, resetting it may help resolve the issue. However, if the issue persists, you may need to contact Sony customer support or consider having your controller repaired or replaced.

How to Connect Bluetooth Headphones to Your PS5?

To connect Bluetooth headphones to your PS5, follow these steps:

Turn on your Bluetooth headphones and put them in pairing mode. Refer to your headphone’s manual for instructions on how to do this.
On your PS5 console, go to Settings from the home screen.
Select Sound.
Select Audio Output.
Select Output Device.
Choose “Bluetooth Headphones” from the list of available devices.
Once your headphones are connected, adjust the volume and other settings as desired.

Note: Some Bluetooth headphones may have latency or other audio quality issues when used with gaming consoles. If you experience these issues, consider using wired headphones or purchasing a gaming headset designed for use with consoles. Additionally, some games may not support Bluetooth audio, so you may need to use wired headphones for those games.

How to Turn Off Your PS5 Controller When Paired?

To turn off your PS5 controller when paired, you can use one of the following methods:

Method 1: Using the PS5 console

Press and hold the PS button on your controller until the Quick Menu appears.
Select “Sound/Devices”.
Select “Turn Off Device”.
Choose “DualSense Wireless Controller”.
Your controller should now turn off.

Method 2: Using the controller

Press and hold the PS button on your controller until the Quick Menu appears.
Select “Turn Off Controller”.
Your controller should now turn off.

If your controller remains inactive for a period of time, it will automatically turn off to conserve battery life. Additionally, if your controller is not paired with the console, it may turn off after a few minutes of inactivity.

Can You Use a PS5 Controller on a PS4?

No, the PS5 controller (DualSense) is not officially compatible with the PS4 console. The PS4 console is designed to work with the DualShock 4 controller, and the PS5 console is designed to work with the DualSense controller.

While some users have reported limited success in getting the DualSense controller to work with the PS4 console via USB cable, it is not recommended as it may cause compatibility issues or damage to the controller or console. Additionally, certain features of the DualSense controller, such as haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, may not work properly or at all when used with a PS4 console. If you need a controller for your PS4 console, it’s recommended to use the DualShock 4 controller, which is designed to work with the PS4 console.

Does Windows 11 support PS5 controller?

Yes, Windows 11 supports the PS5 DualSense controller. Microsoft added support for the controller in the Windows 10 May 2020 update (version 2004) and has continued to support it in Windows 11.

To use the PS5 DualSense controller with Windows 11, you need to connect it to your PC using a USB cable or via Bluetooth. If you are using Bluetooth, make sure that your PC has a Bluetooth adapter and that it is enabled. You may need to update the firmware on your DualSense controller to ensure full compatibility with Windows 11.

Once connected, Windows 11 should automatically recognize the DualSense controller and install the necessary drivers. You can then use the controller to play games on your PC, either by mapping the buttons manually or using third-party software such as Steam or DS4Windows.