When it comes to knowing how to connect a PS5 controller to PC, it may seem simple at first glance, but actually has a few key steps to ensure you can continue gaming seamlessly.
The DualSense controller for the PS5 is filled with innovative features, one of which includes PC compatibility. For PC users looking to forego the mouse and keyboard, the PS5 DualSense and DualSense Edge are amongst the best controllers for PC.
Here is Techopedia’s simple yet comprehensive guide on how to connect a PS5 controller to PC.
Key Takeaways
- The PS5 DualSense is amongst the best controllers to use for PC.
- The controller can be connected through a direct cable.
- Bluetooth adapter for PC allows for a wireless connection to a controller.
- Other methods include using PlayStation’s cloud gaming service.
- The Xbox Series X/S controller and the Nintendo Pro controller are great alternatives.
How to Connect PS5 Controller to PC
There are two methods to connect the two devices together, but players will need either a compatible USB-C cable or a Bluetooth adapter for the PC.
How to connect a PS5 controller wireless or with a wired connection
- Connect the USB-C cable to an empty port on the PC.
- Connect the other end to the port on the PS5 controller.
- A new gamepad will be added to the PC under ‘Add a Device’.
How to connect a PS5 controller to PC via Bluetooth
- Navigate to your PC’s Bluetooth settings from the system menu.
- Select ‘Add Devices’.
- Press and hold the PS button and Create button until the light bar begins to blink.
- Select the DualSense controller once it appears on detected devices.
PS5 controllers can not only connect to PC, but the DualSense Edge controllers can be customized on Windows which you can read more about in our feature.
How to Connect PS5 Controller to Steam
Players will need to connect to Steam in addition to the PC if they wish to play games through the platform.
How to connect PS5 controller to Steam
- Open the Steam client.
- Select the Steam Icon to open the menu.
- Click on Settings and then press the Controller tab.
- DualSense Wireless Controller should appear under Controller Name.
- Navigate the menu to adjust settings and change button bindings.
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 PS5 Controllers on PC
There are many ways to connect DualSense to PC, each one with their own benefits and limits. It is important to know which one will work best depending on current setup and desired performance.
Wired Connection (USB)
A wired connection creates a direct link between the controller and the PC, removing the need for battery charge and maintaining a stable connection.
- Easy to setup
- Stable connection
- No need to charge
- Limited mobility
- Risk of wire damage
Wireless (Bluetooth)
The wireless connection grants unparalleled freedom of movement and allows players to control games from greater distances.
- 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 preference.
- Customize controls
- No need for third-party software
- Play PC exclusives
- Steam client has some quirks
- Not all games support controllers
PS Remote Play (Cloud Gaming)
PlayStation Remote Play is included in a PlayStation Plus subscription and allows players to stream games they already own to other devices through Wi-Fi.
- Stream games with Wi-Fi connection
- Play games you already own
- Access 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 PS5 Controller on PC
Players who are wondering how to connect a PS5 controller to a PC should consider whether it’s the best option for them. There are a variety of alternatives that allow you to play the best PC games with a controller.
Considering an alternative is important for those looking to perform at their best when playing games, whether it’s to use controllers with more customization options, greater compatibility range, or designed for a specific genre.
The Bottom Line
The DualSense controller is one of the most feature-packed and advanced gamepads to date, with its compatibility with PC being a highlight for many players.
This article aims to show how to connect PS5 controller to PC in a multitude of ways, the benefits of each method, and potential alternatives available to players.