A PS5 DualSense controller works well on a Windows PC for many games, either over a USB cable or wirelessly through Bluetooth. This lets you play with a familiar gamepad instead of keyboard and mouse.
What you'll need
- A PS5 DualSense controller
- A USB-C cable or a Bluetooth adapter
- A Windows PC
Step by step
- Decide wired or wirelessFor the simplest setup, plug the controller into your PC with a USB-C cable and skip the Bluetooth steps. Choose Bluetooth if you want to play without a cable.
- Put the controller in pairing modeWith the controller off, press and hold the PS button and the small Create button (left of the touchpad) together until the light bar flashes in a double-blink pattern.
- Open Bluetooth settings on the PCOn Windows, open Settings, go to Bluetooth and devices, and make sure Bluetooth is turned on.
- Add the deviceClick Add device, choose Bluetooth, and select the entry named Wireless Controller or DualSense when it appears in the list.
- Confirm the connectionWait for the light bar to turn solid, which means it is paired. The controller now shows as connected in your Bluetooth device list.
- Test it in a game or SteamOpen Steam, go to Settings and Controller to confirm it is detected, or launch a game that supports gamepads and press a button to check.
Handy tips
- Steam has strong DualSense support, including rumble. Enable PlayStation controller support in Steam settings for the best results.
- Some games only read the controller through Steam Input, so launching them through Steam can fix a controller that seems ignored.
- Keep the controller charged over USB, since a low battery can cause it to disconnect during play.
FAQ
Do the adaptive triggers and haptics work on PC?
Basic input and rumble work in many titles, but the advanced adaptive triggers and haptic feedback only work in games that specifically support them, often when launched through Steam.
Why won't my controller enter pairing mode?
Make sure it is turned off first, then hold the PS and Create buttons together for a few seconds until the light bar double-blinks. If it powers on normally instead, it was not fully off.
Can I use the controller wirelessly without Bluetooth on my PC?
Only if your PC has Bluetooth built in or you add a USB Bluetooth adapter. Otherwise, connect it with a USB-C cable instead.