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Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Start with a USB cable that supports data: turn on the PS5, connect the DualSense to it, then press the PS button. If it still will not pair or charge, work through the cable, power, reset, and software checks below before contacting PlayStation Repairs.
Reconnect the controller to the PS5 over USB
- Turn on the PS5.
- Connect the DualSense to the console using the cable supplied with the controller, if available.
- Press the PS button. The light bar blinks during pairing; once paired, the player indicator lights up.
- If pairing succeeds and the controller has enough battery, disconnect the cable and try it wirelessly.
A DualSense pairs with only one PS5 console at a time. If you have used it with another PS5, connect it to the console you want to use and pair it again. See Sony’s DualSense connection instructions.
If the controller will not charge, check the cable and port
Try another USB port on the PS5, then test with a different cable that supports both charging and data. A charge-only cable may deliver power but cannot be used for Sony’s cable troubleshooting step. Check that the cable fits the controller and console port securely.
Sony recommends the included cable first and a compatible charge-and-sync cable as an alternative. A cable swap is a diagnostic check, not a guaranteed repair. Sony also cautions that not every USB charger can charge a DualSense; a cable or power source that works with another device may not work here. See Sony’s charging guidance.
#1 Best Overall
- 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.
Check whether the PS5 detects charging
Press the PS button, open Control Center, and select Accessories to view the controller’s battery level. While charging, the battery icon animates and displays a lightning bolt. When the controller is fully charged, the animation stops and the icon shows three bars.
Try charging from the console in rest mode
The DualSense can charge while the PS5 is on or in rest mode. For rest-mode charging, USB power must be enabled in the console’s power settings. The exact menu wording can vary with console software version.
Rank #2
- Ultra Customizable Controls
- Mappable Back Buttons
- DualSense Wireless Controller Features Built In
- Replaceable Stick Modules and Caps
You can also try a computer or another USB device with a standards-compliant cable, but some devices may not supply power that charges the controller. Sony’s DualSense manual describes these charging options and their limitations.
Reset the DualSense if it still will not connect
- Turn off the PS5 and disconnect the controller from USB.
- Locate the small reset opening on the back of the controller.
- Use a pin or similar tool to press the button inside for at least five seconds.
- Reconnect the controller to the PS5 with the USB cable and press the PS button.
Follow Sony’s controller reset instructions if you need help locating the reset opening.
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Rank #3
- 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
Install available PS5 and controller software updates
Update the PS5 system software. DualSense device software updates are delivered with PS5 system software updates; you can also check the controller’s device software manually at Settings > Accessories > Controller (General) > DualSense Wireless Controller Device Software. Alternatively, use the official PlayStation Accessories application on a PC to update the controller. Sony’s DualSense support page covers these update options.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When to contact PlayStation Repairs
If the controller still will not connect after the USB pairing check and reset, or the charging checks do not help, use PlayStation Repairs for its diagnostic tool and support options. Connection or charging symptoms alone do not establish that the battery or USB port has failed.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 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
Rank #4
- 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.
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