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How to Reset a PS5 DualSense Controller

Reset a standard DualSense by holding its recessed back button for at least five seconds, then reconnect it to the PS5 by USB. The procedure does not reset the console or change pairing settings.
Length2 min Posted Quest giverVGSources Team
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To reset a standard PS5 DualSense controller, turn off the PS5, press and hold the recessed reset button on the back of the controller for at least five seconds, then connect it to the console with a USB cable and press the PS button. This is a controller troubleshooting reset—not a factory wipe—and it does not change the controller’s pairing settings.

Check which PS5 controller you have

These steps apply to the standard DualSense wireless controller. DualSense Edge and other PS5-compatible controllers have separate designs and may use different procedures. If your controller is not the standard DualSense, check the support instructions for that model before proceeding. PlayStation Support

Reset a standard DualSense controller

  1. Turn off your PS5. Disconnect the controller from its USB cable before resetting.

  2. Turn the controller over and locate the small, recessed reset button on its back.

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    #1 Best Overall
    Playstation 5 DualSense Wireless Controller - White (Renewed)
    • Haptic feedback - Feel physically responsive feedback to your in-game actions with dual actuators which replace traditional rumble motors. In your hands, these dynamic vibrations can simulate the feeling of everything from environments to the recoil of different weapons. .Operating temperature : 41 °F to 95 °F (5 °C to 35 °C)
    • Adaptive triggers - Experience varying levels of force and tension as you interact with your in-game gear and environments. From pulling back an increasingly tight bowstring to hitting the brakes on a speeding car, feel physically connected to your on-screen actions.
    • Built-in microphone and headset jack - Chat with friends online using the built-in microphone or by connecting a headset to the 3.5mm jack. Easily switch voice capture on and off at a moment’s notice with the dedicated mute button. Internet and account for PlayStation Network required.
    • DualSense Controller PS5 and PC compatible. Not compatible with PS4.
    • PS Remote Play requires Remote Play App connected to Wi-Fi, PS4 or PS5 console with the latest system software and compatible game. A PS4 or PS5 console with a wired connection via a LAN cable is recommended. Version 4.0 of the Remote Play App on iOS and iPadOS or version 4.1 on macOS is required for games to be playable with the controller over Bluetooth.
  3. Use a pin or another narrow tool to press and hold the button for at least five seconds. Sony says the tool is not included with the controller.

  4. Connect the controller to the PS5 with a USB cable, then press the PS button. Sony’s pairing instructions use this USB connection to reconnect a controller to a powered-on PS5. PlayStation Support

    Rank #2
    PlayStation DualSense Edge Wireless Controller - Midnight Black
    • Ultra Customizable Controls
    • Mappable Back Buttons
    • DualSense Wireless Controller Features Built In
    • Replaceable Stick Modules and Caps

What the reset changes—and what it does not

PlayStation Support says the reset “will not reconfigure the controller or affect pairing settings.” Treat it as a troubleshooting step, not a full factory reset of the controller. PlayStation Support

It is also separate from resetting the PS5 console. Console recovery options in Safe Mode can affect console data; Sony says reinstalling system software deletes all data on the console. Do not use a console reset when you only intend to reset the controller. PlayStation Safe Mode

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Rank #3
PlayStation DualSense™ Wireless Controller – Chroma Indigo
  • Feel you in-game actions and environement simulated through haptic feedback
  • Experience varying force and tension at your fingertips with adaptive triggers
  • Chat online through the built-in microphone
  • Connect a headset directly via the 3.5mm jack
  • Switch voice capture on and off using the dedicated mute button
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

If the controller still will not connect or respond

  • If you can operate the PS5, check for and install the latest system software.

  • If the reset does not solve a connection problem, use the PlayStation Repairs diagnostic tool to identify the next support option.

    Rank #4
    PlayStation DualSense® Wireless Controller - Midnight Black
    • Bring gaming worlds to life - Feel your in-game actions and environment simulated through haptic feedback*. Experience varying force and tension at your fingertips with adaptive triggers*
    • Find your voice, share your passion - Chat online through the built-in microphone. Connect a headset directly via the 3.5mm jack. Record and broadcast your epic gaming moments with the create button
    • A gaming icon in your hands - Enjoy a comfortable, evolved design with an iconic layout and enhanced sticks. Hear higher-fidelity** sound effects through the built-in speaker in supported games
    • Multi-device connectivity - Connect using a USB Type-C cable or Bluetooth technology and easily play on more devices including Windows PC and Mac computers.
    • Elevate PC gaming with advanced features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers in a range of blockbuster PC titles.

A reset is not a guaranteed fix for hardware faults, battery problems, unresponsive buttons, or every pairing issue.

Quick Recap

Bestseller No. 1
Playstation 5 DualSense Wireless Controller - White (Renewed)
Playstation 5 DualSense Wireless Controller - White (Renewed)
DualSense Controller PS5 and PC compatible. Not compatible with PS4.; Devices with macOS 11.3, iOS 14.5, iPadOS 14.5 or tvOS 14.5 or later supported.
$58.00
Bestseller No. 2
PlayStation DualSense Edge Wireless Controller - Midnight Black
PlayStation DualSense Edge Wireless Controller - Midnight Black
Ultra Customizable Controls; Mappable Back Buttons; DualSense Wireless Controller Features Built In
$199.00
Bestseller No. 3
PlayStation DualSense™ Wireless Controller – Chroma Indigo
PlayStation DualSense™ Wireless Controller – Chroma Indigo
Feel you in-game actions and environement simulated through haptic feedback; Experience varying force and tension at your fingertips with adaptive triggers
$79.00
Bestseller No. 5
PlayStation DualSense® Wireless Controller – Midnight Black + USB Cable for PC
PlayStation DualSense® Wireless Controller – Midnight Black + USB Cable for PC
Enjoy precise, comfortable control over 10,000+ supported Steam games.; Play games streamed from your PS5 or PS4 console to your PC via the PS Remote Play App
$74.00
Best Value
PlayStation DualSense® Wireless Controller – Midnight Black + USB Cable for PC
  • Enjoy precise, comfortable control over 10,000+ supported Steam games.
  • Easily pair the controller directly to your Windows PC via Bluetooth or play as you charge with the included USB Type-C cable
  • Stay paired with up to four different Bluetooth devices, making it easy to enjoy the controller across Windows PC, Mac, PS5 consoles and smartphones. Discover more connection tips and tricks at playstation.com/pair-dualsense
  • Access the latest available controller firmware directly from your PC with the free-todownload PlayStation Accessories app
  • Play games streamed from your PS5 or PS4 console to your PC via the PS Remote Play App

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

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