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Over half of PlayStation’s audience have remained with the last-generation console, playing the best PS4 games, and so the PS4 DualShock controller remains a popular option among players.
With consoles becoming more expensive, such as the $700 PS5 Pro, the prospect of moving to a PC isn’t so far-fetched. However, the shift to a mouse and keyboard can be daunting, and players will undoubtedly wonder how to connect a PS4 controller to a PC instead.
Techopedia presents everything you need to know about the PS4 controller on PC.
Key Takeaways
- Over half of PlayStation’s audience is on last-gen consoles and using a PS4 controller.
- The controller can be connected to the PC through a direct cable.
- DualShock 4 controllers can connect wirelessly with Bluetooth.
- Other methods include using PlayStation Remote Play and downloading DS4Windows.
- The PS5 DualSense and Xbox Series X/S controllers are great alternatives.
How to Connect PS4 Controller to PC
There are two methods for connecting the two devices, but players will need either a compatible USB cable or Bluetooth on the PC.
Here is how to connect a PS4 controller to PC wired:
- Obtain a micro-USB cable for the PS4 controller.
- Connect one end to an empty USB port on the PC.
- Connect the other end to the controller port and turn it on.
- A new device will appear on the PC setting under ‘Add a Device’.
The steps are very similar to how you would connect a PS5 controller to PC.
For those after a wireless solution, we have you covered. This is how to connect PS4 controller to PC with Bluetooth:
- Install a Bluetooth adapter if you do not already have Bluetooth.
- Enable Bluetooth on your PC settings.
- Pair the controller by holding the PS and Share buttons until it flashes.
- Navigate to PC Bluetooth settings and go to ‘Add a Device’.
- Select Wireless Controller and confirm the connection.
There are no additional steps needed when wondering how to check PS4 controller battery on PC. Programs such as DS4 Software and Steam display battery life and notify you when you’re low. Additionally, you can always check battery life through the Bluetooth settings on the PC.
How to Connect PS4 Controller to Steam
If you wish to play games on the platform, players will need to connect to streaming clients such as Steam in addition to the PC.
Here is how to set up a PS4 controller on PC through Steam:
- Open the Steam client.
- Select the Steam Icon to open the menu.
- Click on Settings and then press the Controller tab.
- DualShock Wireless Controller should appear under Controller Name.
- Navigate the menu to adjust settings and change button bindings.
- Use the “Steam Input” for the DualShock 4 for your games.
If you are still encountering issues connecting your controller, scroll down the menu to PlayStation Controller Support and ensure it is set to Enabled in Games w/o Support.
Different Connectivity Options for PS4 Controllers on PC
There are a plethora of options available for connecting PS4 controllers to PCs. What is right for you will depend on your current setup and the experience you’re looking for.
Wired Connection (USB)
A wired connection creates a direct link between the PS4 controller and the PC, removing the need for battery charge and maintaining a stable connection.
We recommend this method if you’re not too far away from the PC, such as at a desk.
- Easy to set up
- Stable connection
- No need to charge
- Limited mobility
- Risk of wire damage
- Trip hazard
Wireless (Bluetooth)
The PS4 controller wireless connection grants unparalleled freedom of movement and allows players to control games from greater distances.
We recommend this method if you’re much further away from the PC or screen, such as in a living room.
- Easy to pair
- More mobility
- Less clutter
- Higher latency
- Limited battery life (4-6 hours)
- Bluetooth adapter may be needed
Steam Support
Steam offers various accessibility options to allow players to not only play the latest PC games with a controller but also customize button layouts to their preferences.
We recommend this method for players who primarily play online multiplayer games or those looking for more accessibility options.
- Customize controls
- No need for third-party software
- Play PC exclusives
- Steam client has some quirks
- Not all games support controllers
DS4Windows
DS4Windows is a free and open-source online tool for connecting your PS4 controller to a PC. We recommend this option as a last resort if you are struggling to connect the controller to the PC. It used to be the best way to pair PS4 controller to PC, before Steam Input arrived.
- Customize controls
- Accessibility for older software
- Supports DualShock features
- Complex set up
- Compatibility issues
PS Remote Play (Cloud Gaming)
PlayStation Remote Play is included in a PlayStation Plus Premium subscription and allows players to stream games they already own to other devices through Wi-Fi.
We recommend this option for players who share their consoles regularly or regularly change their gaming environment.
- Stream games with Wi-Fi connection
- Play games you already own
- Access the PS Plus game library
- Play on desktop or mobile devices
- Requires stable internet connection
- Risk of latency
- Restricted to PS5 games
Alternatives to Using a PS4 Controller on PC
Players who are considering using a PS4 controller on PC should consider whether the DualShock 4 is the best choice. There are a plethora of controllers available, each with its own unique perks.
When asking how to pair a PS4 controller to a PC, players may want to consider whether they should. Using a mouse and keyboard may be daunting, especially if you’re used to using a controller, but there are significant advantages to using them.
The Bottom Line
The DualShock 4 controller for the PS4 is one of the most commonly owned gaming controllers to date. It can be a great tool for playing games on both the console and the PC.
This article outlines how to connect a PS4 controller to a PC, including the different methods, advantages of using them, and alternatives available to players.
