Yes. A PS5 can connect up to four DualSense controllers at once. To add a second controller wirelessly, use the first controller to open Settings > Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories, then hold Create + PS on the second controller until its light bar flashes. Pairing it to the console is separate from joining a game: assign it to another user or guest, then select the game’s local multiplayer mode. Sony’s DualSense support guide documents the pairing steps and system-level limit.
Before you start
- Use a compatible controller. DualSense and DualSense Edge controllers work with PS5 games. Supported third-party PS5 controllers may also work, but compatibility depends on the model and game. DUALSHOCK 4 works with supported PS4 games played on PS5; it is not a general substitute for a DualSense in PS5 games, as PlayStation’s PS5 FAQ explains.
- Charge the second controller. It can also remain connected to USB while charging, but unplug it before entering Bluetooth pairing mode.
- Have a data-capable USB cable available. A charge-only cable may charge the controller without transmitting the data needed to pair it.
- Check the game’s player limit. The PS5 can have four DualSense controllers connected, but an individual game may support fewer local players or no local multiplayer at all.
Two controllers can be used by separate players, or they can be configured to control one player together using the PS5’s Assist Controller feature. Those are different setups: use separate user assignments for multiplayer and the same user for assistance.
Pair the second controller wirelessly
- Turn on the PS5 and make sure controller 1 is connected and working.
- On controller 2, hold the PS button until its lights go out if it is already on.
- Disconnect any USB cable from controller 2.
- Using controller 1, go to Settings > Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories.
- On controller 2, press and hold Create and PS at the same time. Keep holding until the light bar flashes.
- Select controller 2 when it appears in the Bluetooth accessories list.
- When the player indicator lights, press PS on controller 2 and choose a user or guest account.
The flashing light bar indicates pairing mode; the player indicator lighting up means the controller has connected. Sony’s controller instructions describe this process. Menu wording can change with system software updates.
Pair it with a USB cable instead
- Turn on the PS5.
- Connect controller 2 to the console with a compatible USB data cable.
- Press the PS button on controller 2.
- Choose a user or guest account when prompted.
- Once paired, disconnect the cable if you want to play wirelessly.
If the controller charges but the PS5 does not recognize it, try a different cable that supports data. Charging alone does not confirm that the cable can complete pairing.
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- 👉️【Usage Notes】When using the gamepad for the first time, it needs to be connected to the PS5 console via a USB-C cable（It must be the data cable included in the package or the original data cable）, and then press the Home button to activate it. If your controller has any functional issues, please use this url to update the firmware: we.tl/t-yAwofXJL9YOyyq3K !!! The gamepad is only compatible with PS5 series consoles and Windows PCs, and it is not compatible with PS4.
- 👋【Quick Connection & One - click Wake - up】 You can connect to the PS5 console by pressing the HOME button on the controller. When connecting to the console for the first time, you need to use a data cable. It also supports use on computers with Windows operating systems.
- 🎮️【Controller with Sound】 The controller is capable of producing sound, providing an immersive gaming experience. Please note that the controller is only equipped with a speaker and has no microphone. If you want to use the microphone fuacnction, please use an external headset. It is equipped with a 3.5mm TRRS headphone jack（not compatible with Apple headphones.）
- 🌈【Customizable Colors】Press the Lighting button to switch colors and light effect modes with one click. It features a color memory function, ensuring that the next time you use it, it will still be the color you prefer.
- 🕹️【High - Precision Joysticks】Equipped with upgraded joysticks, these effectively reduce the joystick dead zone and extend the controller's service life.
Join a game as a second player
For independent local multiplayer, assign controller 2 to a different user or guest from the one assigned to controller 1. Then open the game’s local multiplayer, co-op, split-screen, or other local-player mode and follow its join prompt. The required button varies by game; use the on-screen instruction rather than assuming the controller will join automatically.
Some games require a separate user account, and some support only online multiplayer. Connecting a second controller at the PS5 menu does not add a player to a game that lacks local multiplayer.
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- 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.
Use two controllers as one Assist Controller
Assist Controller mode lets two controllers operate the PS5 as though they were one. It is for shared control or assistance, not two independent players. Both controllers must already be paired with the console.
Turn on the feature
- From the home screen, open Settings > Accessibility > Controllers > Use Second Controller for Assistance.
- Turn on Use Assist Controller.
Assign both controllers to one user
- Press PS on the main controller and assign it to a user.
- Press PS on the assist controller and assign it to the same user.
The assist controller does not provide haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, microphone functions, or custom button assignments through its assist role. A DualSense Edge can serve as the main controller, but not as the assist controller. See Sony’s Assist Controller instructions for the feature’s setup and limitations.
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- 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.
If the second controller will not connect
It does not appear in Bluetooth Accessories
- Disconnect the USB cable from controller 2.
- Hold PS until its lights go out, then try holding Create + PS until the light bar flashes.
- Move the controller closer to the PS5 and confirm controller 1 is still connected to navigate the menu.
- Restart the PS5 and try the Bluetooth pairing steps again.
- Pair controller 2 by USB using a data-capable cable.
If the controller is connected to a phone, PC, or another device, disconnect it there or turn off that device’s Bluetooth before retrying. A controller paired to another PS5 may also need to be paired to this console. Current DualSense models can store pairings for multiple devices, but those device slots are not a way to connect multiple controllers to one PS5; each controller still needs its own connection to the console. See Sony’s DualSense guide.
It charges over USB but will not pair
Try another USB cable and port. The cable may be charge-only or damaged, or the port may be faulty. Sony recommends its official USB cable for reset and reconnection procedures in its DualSense troubleshooting guide.
Rank #4
- ❗❗❗Tips：Due to a recent PS5 system update, vibration and controller speaker functions of our controllers may be temporarily unavailable.. No need to worry—your controller is not defective. This is a system compatibility issue that may be resolved through a future PS5 update
- 【Designed for PS5 Console Compatibility】Our PS5 wireless controller is specially designed to work seamlessly with the PS5 console. It pairs effortlessly and delivers stable performance across a wide range of PS5 games. Players can enjoy smooth gameplay with intuitive button layouts and responsive control functions, offering a true next-gen gaming experience
- 【Ergonomic Design with Immersive LED Light Effects】This PS5 controller is designed with player comfort in mind. It has a balanced weight and a comfortable grip, effectively reducing fatigue even during long gaming sessions. The built-in LED lighting system offers vibrant, customizable color effects that enhance the visual atmosphere and bring more excitement to your gaming setup
- 【Advanced Bluetooth Connection】Our PS5 wireless controller uses the latest Bluetooth technology to ensure a stable and fast wireless connection with your PS5 system.The setup process is quick and simple—just pair once and enjoy reliable communication without cables. The enhanced transmission performance minimizes interference and ensures consistent control, even during fast-paced action games
- 【Ultra-Low Latency and High-Precision Control】Built for accuracy and responsiveness, this controller features highly sensitive analog sticks and precision triggers for refined control. Every movement and command registers instantly with minimal delay, giving players a competitive edge in shooting, racing, or sports games. The optimized chip design helps maintain low input lag for a fluid, real-time response
Reset an unresponsive controller
- Turn off the PS5 and disconnect the controller from USB.
- Find the small reset hole on the back of the controller near the Sony logo.
- Use a pin or similar tool to press and hold the reset button for at least five seconds.
- Reconnect the controller to the PS5 using the official USB cable, then press PS.
Sony’s reset instructions cover the procedure. If pairing still fails, follow Sony’s support or repair guidance.
It connects, but the game does not recognize a second player
- Check that the game supports local multiplayer and the number of players you want.
- Look for the game’s own join prompt; a second player may need to press a specified button.
- Check whether it requires a separate user account rather than a guest.
- For a PS5 game, use a DualSense or another controller supported for that PS5 title; DUALSHOCK 4 is for supported PS4 games on PS5.
Both controllers move the same character
For two-player multiplayer, assign controller 2 to a different user or guest. If you intend to share control of one player, enable Use Second Controller for Assistance and assign both controllers to the same user.
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- 【Connection & Wake-up】When using the gamepad for the first time, it needs to be connected to the PS5 console via a USB-C cable（It must be the data cable included in the package or the original data cable）, and then press the Home button to activate it. After completing the first connection, you only need to press the HOME button to turn on the PS5 console. The gamepad is compatible with PS5 series consoles and Windows PCs, and it is not compatible with PS4.
- 【Controller with Sound】The controller is capable of producing sound, providing an immersive gaming experience. Please note that the controller is only equipped with a speaker and has no microphone. If you want to use the microphone function, please use an external headset. It is equipped with a 3.5mm TRRS headphone jack（not compatible with Apple headphones.）
- 【Customizable Colors】Press the Lighting button to switch colors and light effect modes with one click. It features a color memory function, ensuring that the next time you use it, it will still be the color you prefer.
- 【High - Precision Joysticks】Equipped with upgraded joysticks, these effectively reduce the joystick dead zone and extend the controller's service life.
- 【Multiple Functions】10 times/second Turbo function can be set, supporting up to 16 keys programming, making your gaming experience even better.
Which connection method should you use?
| Method | Best for | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| Wireless Bluetooth pairing | Regular couch multiplayer after setup | Controller must be charged; pairing can be disrupted if it is still connected to another device. |
| USB pairing or wired play | First-time pairing, low battery, or troubleshooting | Requires a data-capable cable and may limit where you can sit. |
| Assist Controller mode | Two people sharing control of one player | Not a second-player mode; the assist role has feature limitations. |
For an ordinary second player, a standard DualSense is the simplest choice. DualSense Edge is compatible with PS5, but its customization features are unnecessary for basic couch play. The PlayStation Access controller is designed for accessibility-focused setups and can be used in supported configurations with a DualSense; see Sony’s controller support hub. For a third-party controller, verify that its manufacturer explicitly supports the PS5 game you plan to play.
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