How to use the PS5 DualSense controller on a PC
Use the PS5 DualSense controller on a PC for a deeper and more immersive gaming experience
(Image: © Sony)
If you’ve wanted to use the PS5 DualSense controller on a PC, you’re in luck — it’s easy to do. While some gaming purists prefer a mouse and keyboard (and who can blame them, given the huge benefits), some genres play better with a controller, and they don’t come much better than the DualSense.
While we opted for the DualShock 4 in our roundup of the best PC controllers, we still have great opinions on the DualSense Wireless Controller, if user reviews are anything to go by. It’s comfortable to hold and using the PS5 DualSense controller on a PC means you’re also getting extra mileage out of your gamepads, which is always nice. You can now update the DualSense controller without a PS5 via PC, too.
You’ll find that when you’re playing the best PC games that a controller also comes with some great perks, specifically quicker responses and faster movements. Plus, you can sit back and relax, instead being up close to the screen. PS5 DualSense controller works both wired and wirelessly if your PC supports Bluetooth, but if you want to use it wired, make sure you have a USB-C to USB-A lead.
If you decide to use the PS5 DualSense controller on a PC, bear in mind that the adaptive triggers won’t be utilized when playing most PC games. That being said, Metro Exodus: Enhanced Edition, one of the best PS5 features is now available on PC recently received an update that added full support for the DualSense controller’s adaptive triggers and haptic feedback.
How to use the PS5 DualSense controller on a PC
Steam received an update letting you customize the LED light on the DualSense controller. So, you can now enable/disable it, as well as only illuminating it when multiple controllers are connected. However, sound’s an issue as the controller’s audio jack isn’t supported on PC, but you can still plug your headphones directly into your PC, or invest in a pair of the best wireless headphones.
If you’ve decided that learning how to use the PS5 DualSense controller on a PC is the path you want to take, the steps below will have you all set up in no time. We also have a handy guide for how to use the PS4 DualShock 4 controller on a PC, so if you’d prefer to opt for that, we’ve got you covered there too.
PS5 DualSense controller on PC: How to use with Steam
The most popular storefront and game launcher on PC, Steam lets you use the PS5 DualSense controller when running the application. It’s a great choice when using Steam’s TV-friendly ‘Big Picture Mode’.
First, open up Steam and navigate to the top left. Click Steam > Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings. Connect your DualSense using either a wired or wireless connection (see how to connect via Bluetooth below). Once connected, Steam shows that you have a generic controller plugged in, and may even prompt you to configure it. If not, click on the device and select ‘Define Layout’.
From here, you can map the buttons to however you see fit. The touchpad, for instance, can be mapped as a button, but make sure that the triggers (R2 and L2 buttons) are mapped as an analog input, not as a button.
(Image credit: Resetera)
When you’ve finished tweaking things to your preference, save and name the device (it’s probably easiest if you just call it DualSense). Also, make sure you select that it’s a PlayStation 4 controller, as this will enable PlayStation button prompts in supported titles.
Finally, on the Controller Settings menu, enable Generic Gamepad Configuration Support and PlayStation Configuration Support. You should see a tick next to the relevant box. Your DualSense PS5 controller should now work for all of the best Steam games, but make sure it loads the Steam overlay otherwise it might not be recognized.
PS5 DualSense controller on PC: How to connect via USB
(Image credit: Sony)
If you’re wanting to use the PS5 DualSense controller on a PC, you’ll need to use a USB-C to USB-A cable.
The DualSense uses USB type C port, instead of micro USB like the DualShock 4.
Simply plug the cable into both the controller and your PC, an Windows should automatically detect it. If your PC is equipped with dedicated USB-C port, you could also use a USB-C to USB-C cable.
PS5 DualSense controller on PC: How to connect via Bluetooth
(Image credit: Sony)
The DualSense can connect to your PC via Bluetooth, if you’d like to be wireless. You’ll need to make sure that your PC or laptop has a Bluetooth receiver built in, but if it doesn’t, you can pick up various cheap Bluetooth USB dongles. To connect the PS5 DualSense controller via Bluetooth, hold the central PS Button with the Create button for three seconds. The lightbar in the middle should begin to flash.
Next, you’ll need to open up the Bluetooth settings on your PC. In Windows 10, click on the speech bubble icon in the Taskbar located at the bottom-right corner of your screen. This will open up the Action Center, so from there click ‘Bluetooth’ and then select ‘Wireless Controller’.
If you’re asked to enter a pair code, type in 0000. The PS5 DualSense controller should now be connected via Bluetooth to your PC.
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Adam was formerly TRG’s Hardware Editor. A law graduate with an exceptional track record in content creation and online engagement, Adam has penned scintillating copy for various technology sites and also established his very own award-nominated video games website.
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How to Connect a PS5 Controller to a PC
(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)
The PlayStation 5‘s DualSense controller is Sony’s best in a long time. It’s comfortable, good for large and medium-sized hands, textured and has clicky, responsive buttons. On the PS5, it even offers detailed haptic feedback and triggers with resistance that can adjust based on the game you’re playing.
Just because you game on PC doesn’t mean that you need to use a keyboard and mouse. Some games make more sense with a controller, or perhaps you just want to kick back on the couch with your PC connected to a television. And you can connect a PS5 controller to your PC.
Microsoft and PlayStation may be rivals in the gaming space, but ultimately, the PS5 controller connects over Bluetooth, so it’s pretty easy to connect it to your PC for gaming.
With this tutorial, we’ll get you connected and help you set up your PS5 controller for use on a PC.
Here’s how to connect a PS5 controller to a PC:
Connect a PS5 Controller to PC via Bluetooth or Wire
There are two ways to connect your PS5 controller to a PC. The first way is to use the wire that came with it. Plug the USB Type-C end into the DualSens, like you’re going to charge it, but put the USB Type-A end into one of your PC’s USB ports. Boom — your controller is connected in wired mode. By PlayStation’s definition, this is how you get official support.
The biggest advantage of connecting to a PC this way is that some PC games can use the PS5 controller’s haptics, but they typically require a wired connection.
That being said, it’s more comfortable to play wirelessly. For that, you need to use Bluetooth. To connect a PS5 controller to a PC over Bluetooth:
1. Go to Settings > Bluetooth & Devices in Windows.
2. Click «Add device.»
(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)
3. Choose «Bluetooth.»
(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)
4. Hold the PS and Share buttons on your PS5 controller until the lighting around the touchpad turns blue and starts to flash quickly. The share button is the one just to the left of the touchpad.
(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)
5. Select «Wireless Controller» from the list of Bluetooth devices.
(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)
The PS5 controller will connect to your PC, and you’ll get a confirmation message indicating that you’re ready to go. Some games will recognize the PlayStation’s DirectInput drivers and even allow for key remapping. But many require a bit of extra work.
On a Mac? Go to Settings > Bluetooth and press the same buttons on the PS5 controller. macOS Ventura immediately recognizes it as a DualSense controller, rather than something generic.
(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)
Setting Up the PS5 Controller in Steam
On Windows, the best way to set up a PS5 controller is to use Steam, specifically its «Big Picture Mode.»
1. Enter Big Picture Mode by going to View > Big Picture or clicking the icon for it in the top-right corner of the Steam Window.
2. From here, you’ll be able to move around with the PS5 controller. Go to Settings > Controller Settings.
(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)
3. Check «PlayStation Configuration Support.» This is especially important because it will let you customize your PS5 controls for Steam games and big picture mode back in the main settings menu.
From here, you can also click «Preferences» to give your controller a name, change rumble options and change its light color. (I like to turn the brightness all the way down to save battery life.)
(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)
There’s also a «calibrate» option, though you shouldn’t need to touch that unless you’re having issues with the joysticks or gyros.
(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)
Using the PS5 Controller Outside of Steam
Not every game is on Steam, but you can still use Steam’s excellent DualSense support for games from other launchers, like the Epic Games Store. From Steam, go to Games > Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library…» and search for titles you want to use through the Steam Overlay.
(Image credit: Tom’s Hardware)
Alternatively, you can try other programs. A favorite I’ve tried is DS4Windows, which takes the inputs from your gamepad and maps them onto a «virtual» one supported in Windows. This route is one to try if you don’t want to add games through Steam, or perhaps if you’re playing emulated games.
Some games with button prompts might not have support for the PlayStation 5 controller’s buttons. Sometimes, community mods can handle that, but in other cases it might be more helpful to memorize which PS5 buttons correspond to which Xbox controller buttons.
What to Do If You Have Sound Issues
If your sound stops working while using a PS5 controller on a PC, check your audio settings.
The PS5 controller has a built-in speaker that sometimes plays sounds during games. It doesn’t, however, play nice as a Windows speaker, though your PC may recognize it as one. Be sure to switch back to your speakers, headset or monitor if this happens.
I have only ever had this happen while the PS5 controller is connected with a USB cable.
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Andrew E. Freedman is a senior editor at Tom’s Hardware focusing on laptops, desktops and gaming. He also keeps up with the latest news. A lover of all things gaming and tech, his previous work has shown up in Tom’s Guide, Laptop Mag, Kotaku, PCMag and Complex, among others. Follow him on Twitter: @FreedmanAE
Topics
Console Gaming
DualSense — Experience with PC and Remote Play — Offtopic on DTF
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Foreword
Sold his PS4 in October.
At that moment, I didn’t think that everything would be so bad with PS5 supplies 🙂 At home, I only had a wired xbox 360 gamepad. I’m much more comfortable playing on a creaky, broken 360 box controller than on a mouse. nine0003
My experience with the DualSense will be based mainly on my experience with the DualShok 4 (previously my main controller) and a bit of the xbox one gamepad (which I often played with a friend at his place).
Housing materials
A very big step forward, my respect, Sony. The gamepad feels expensive in the hands. It is noticeably heavier than the Dualshock, it does not feel empty inside. The finish on the grips is nice and much better than the DS4 (no peaches). The symbols themselves, by the way, are almost invisible to the eye, you have to peer. nine0003
Buttons are pressed even more pleasantly, gently. The cross is the same. There are complaints about the Create, Options buttons and the microphone button — they are too small! Share and Options on the DS4 were wider and much more convenient.
The bumpers didn’t seem to change much, but the triggers… Their main feature is revealed on the PS5, of course. For now, I note that they have become larger, which is good, they are pressed very softly and pleasantly. Triggers have always been more fun on the Xbox one than on the DS4. I’m glad that DualSense changed them like that.
Each button is pressed quietly, competitors need to learn from this.
It is very durable, you can see tests on youtube.
How does it work on PC?
Actually… No way) You can’t do without additional software, but don’t worry too much. I asked a question on this topic, they answered me that everything is the same as with the DS4. So, to put it mildly, this is not true …
First of all, I went into my favorite R6, but the gamepad was simply not defined there … DS4 had full support, even the interface had the necessary buttons. nine0003
Steam was able to revive my dualsense. Thanks to the forced support function, it works everywhere, added R6 as a third-party game and .
.. Miraculously, it worked, but with the xbox button interface. Everything seems to be fine, but there is a problem. For example, the vibration disappeared in the rocket league, and a dead zone appeared in the sidge, which, at 95% sensitivity, completely killed my aim. In GTA, there seemed to be a slight delay.
I had no such problems with the DualShock 4. It is extremely annoying that Sony did not take care of the minimum support for the gamepad on the PC. They would at least make an emulation of a dualshock, with which there are no problems listed above. nine0003
DualShok 4 sores left. Windows 10 willingly tries to use your controller as a speaker. This may cause inconvenience from time to time.
The microphone works fine, the sound is good. I tested it in discord, you can communicate without problems.
Crutches
DS4Windows is a utility that solves all DualSense problems.
The program has an incredibly flexible setting, an ordinary person first of all needs to set up two things: 1.
Backlight; 2. Emulated gamepad (xbox 360 or DualShock 4)
In the program, you can check the operation of the sticks, accelerometer, adjust the dead zone, touchpad, sensitivity and a lot of useless settings)) Anyone who cares about all this, he already knows about all this)
Trigger Effect… You won’t use it with this program…
This is the main setting. In general, you can choose the xbox 360 and leave it like that, but if it is important for you to see Playstation buttons in the interface in some games, then you can choose the DualShock 4
I do not recommend installing such a backlight, it quickly sways.
PS Remote Play
I was able to test the controller with PS5 via remote play. The stream was turned on by my good friend from Ukraine.
The controller works great through the stream, all its features are used, even the microphone.
Of course, the first thing I went to was Astro’s Playroom.
It’s fantastic. Vibration and triggers… It’s very hard to put into words. And indeed, reading the reviews of journalists and bloggers, it was hard to imagine how cool and interesting it is. Throughout the game, I could not get off a smile, childish delight, there was nothing like it before. nine0003
I won’t tell you all these feelings for the hundredth time, there are enough articles anyway. I can only confirm, yes, it is exactly that cool.
When playing via Remote Play, the microphone is also switched to the console.
Total
Pros:
— Superb build
— Quality materials
— Vibration
— Bluetooth enabled
— Fast charging
— Battery itself lasts longer than DS4
— Built-in microphone
— Touchpad can be used instead of a mouse
— Can also be connected to a phone without problems
Cons:
— Lack of official support on a PC extremely difficult to use
— Heavy weight
From myself I will say the following: the gamepad is definitely worth the money.
You can install DS4Windows at least for autorun when you turn on the system, configure it once and forget about this program. With her, you will not experience any inconvenience. The gamepad will work perfectly. nine0003
If we compare it with the xbox gamepad… (now there will be an undermining) The comparison is extremely funny in fact. Of course, DualSense is many times better and more pleasant. This also applies to case materials, buttons, and everything in general. If you’re planning on getting a PS5 in the future, you can grab dualsense for PC now. If you’re just looking for a PC gamepad, I highly recommend the DualSense.
PS5 DualSense Controller Gets Official PC Support
nine0002
Speculation about improved DualSense support on PC turned out to be true. Sony has released a new controller patch that will provide a more enjoyable gaming experience.
The document was «lit up» on the official website and was quickly deleted.
The company has indeed been working on a related update, and the files are already online.
“To improve the performance of your DualSense wireless controller, please update the firmware. Be sure to update to the latest version before use. nine0118 Use a Windows computer and [DualSense Wireless Controller Firmware Update Tool] to update.
After starting the program and connecting the DualSense to the device via USB, follow the instructions that appear.
Until now, there has not been a full-fledged PC application, and consumers could experience the device’s capabilities in some games in a limited way. This is logical, because the company releases more and more games for PC. nine0003
2022-04-20 10:45:29
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