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For a Sony DualShock 3 or SIXAXIS on Windows 10 or 11, use DsHidMini. Add BthPS3 if you want Bluetooth. Connect the controller first with a USB data cable, then choose a HID mode that suits your game or emulator. ScpToolkit is primarily a legacy option, not the recommended starting point for a new setup.
Which drivers do you need?
DsHidMini and BthPS3 handle different parts of the setup. DsHidMini is a user-mode driver for Windows 10/11 that presents a DualShock 3 or SIXAXIS controller as a configurable HID device. Its project documentation lists compatibility with PCSX2, RPCS3, DS4Windows, RetroArch, x360ce, Dolphin and DuckStation. See the DsHidMini project.
BthPS3 is the companion Bluetooth profile and filter-driver path for wireless PS3 peripherals, including SIXAXIS, DualShock 3 and PS Move devices. Its project states official support for Windows 10/11 on x64 and ARM64. See the BthPS3 project and its README.
DsHidMini’s driver documentation identifies dshidmini.inf for UMDF installation on Windows 10/11. The driver translates USB or BthPS3 input into the virtual HID report format selected for the controller. The driver documentation explains the installation layer.
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Set up the controller over USB first
- Use a USB cable that carries data, not a charge-only cable. A wired connection is the dependable initial path and can establish Bluetooth pairing for later use.
- Follow the installation instructions in the DsHidMini project for your Windows installation, then connect the controller by USB.
- Choose a DsHidMini mode that matches the software you plan to use. If the controller is not recognized as expected, check its selected mode before changing unrelated Windows settings.
For Bluetooth, install BthPS3 as directed by its project documentation and use the USB connection for the initial pairing step. A desktop without a suitable Bluetooth radio will need a compatible USB Bluetooth adapter. BthPS3 documents supported host-radio classes, but the available compatibility information does not certify every retail dongle.
Choose a HID mode for the software
DsHidMini can present the controller in several ways. The right choice depends on what the game or input layer expects; there is no single mode that is best for every title.
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| Mode or presentation | When it can make sense |
|---|---|
| Xbox/XInput-compatible | Try this for modern PC games that expect Xbox-style input. |
| Sony SIXAXIS-compatible | Use when software is intended to work with Sony-style controller behavior. |
| DualShock 4-compatible | A compatibility option for software that expects a DualShock 4-style device. |
| Common Gamepad | A DirectInput-friendly option that can suit older games with limited axis support. |
| Single custom gamepad; split gamepad and joystick | Alternative HID layouts for software that benefits from a custom or separated device presentation. |
| SDF (Single Device with Force Feedback); SXS | Setup-guide recommendations for particular PCSX2, Steam and RPCS3 workflows; see the qualifications below. |
The mode names and device options are described in the DsHidMini documentation. For an unmodified PCSX2 installation using the LilyPad plugin, an independent setup guide recommends SDF; for Steam or RPCS3 workflows, it recommends SXS. Treat these as starting points rather than universal requirements: behavior can vary with game and emulator versions. See the PC Gamer setup guide.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Should you use ScpToolkit?
For a new Windows 10/11 installation, start with DsHidMini and add BthPS3 for Bluetooth. ScpToolkit is a legacy route; current project guidance points new users toward DsHidMini and directs users who still need ScpToolkit to its original project release. Consult the ScpToolkit releases rather than an unofficial download.
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Old ScpToolkit or PlayStation Now driver components can interfere with a DsHidMini installation. If setup fails on a system that has used either, check for remaining legacy driver components before repeating installation. The PC Gamer setup guide also flags old components as a possible source of conflicts.
Quick Recap
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- Cool Comfort: Enjoy a stable surface with our lap desk's dual bolster cushion, designed for comfort and airflow, keeping your lap cool during extended use.
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Quick troubleshooting checks
- Windows does not detect the controller over USB: verify that the cable supports data transfer and try the wired setup before troubleshooting Bluetooth.
- USB works but Bluetooth does not: check that BthPS3 is installed, that the initial pairing has been established over USB, and that the PC’s Bluetooth radio is suitable.
- The controller appears but a game ignores it: select a HID mode suited to the game’s input expectations; XInput can help with games built around Xbox-style controllers, while DirectInput-friendly or Sony-oriented modes may suit other software.
- Installation fails or devices behave inconsistently: check for remnants of ScpToolkit or PlayStation Now driver components that may conflict with the current setup.
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