In this article, we will show you how to connect PS4 controller to PC using USB, Bluetooth or Steam to enjoy seamless gaming experience on Windows.

Are you a gaming enthusiast looking to level up your PC gaming experience with a PS4 controller? Connecting a PS4 controller to your PC is easier than you might think, and this guide will walk you through all the steps you need to get started.

Whether you’re a PC gamer who prefers the comfort of a controller or you just want to play PlayStation-exclusive games on your PC, using a PS4 controller can be a game-changer.

Let’s dive into how to connect your PS4 controller to your PC in a few simple steps.

See Also: 4 Steps to Pair PS4 Controller to PC

How to Connect PS4 Controller to PC

Method 1: How to Connect PS4 Controller to PC Using USB Cable

One of the easiest ways to connect your PS4 controller to your PC is by using a USB cable. Here’s how you do it:

1. Grab Your USB Cable: Use the same USB cable that you use to charge your PS4 controller. It’s a standard Micro-USB to USB-A cable.

2. Plug into Your PC: Insert the Micro-USB end into the PS4 controller and the USB-A end into an available USB port on your PC.

3. Automatic Driver Installation: Windows should automatically detect the controller and install the necessary drivers.

4. Start Playing: Once the drivers are installed, your PS4 controller should be ready to use! Open your favorite game, and start playing with your controller.

This method works perfectly for wired connections and doesn’t require any additional software or settings. It’s the quickest way to connect if you want to jump into a game fast!

Method 2: How to Connect PS4 Controller to PC via Bluetooth

If you prefer a wireless setup, you can connect your PS4 controller to your PC using Bluetooth. This method works well if your PC has Bluetooth capabilities.

1. Turn On Bluetooth on Your PC: Go to your PC’s settings, click on Devices, and then enable Bluetooth if it’s not already on.

2. Put the PS4 Controller in Pairing Mode:

   • Press and hold the PS button (the PlayStation logo button) and the Share button simultaneously for a few seconds.

   • The light bar on the controller will start blinking, indicating that it’s in pairing mode.

3. Pair the Controller with Your PC:

   • On your PC, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.

   • Click on Add Bluetooth or other device, then select Bluetooth.

   • You should see “Wireless Controller” listed. Click on it to pair.

4. Start Gaming: Once the controller is paired, you’re all set! Launch your game, and the PS4 controller should be ready to go.

If your PC doesn’t have Bluetooth, you can also purchase a USB Bluetooth adapter to enable wireless functionality.

See Also: 4 Steps to Connect PS4 controller to PS4 Console, PC, Mac, Smartphone or Tablet

Method 3: How to Connect PS4 Controller to PC Using Steam’s Big Picture Mode

Steam offers a great way to connect your PS4 controller, with support for both wired and wireless connections. Here’s how to do it through Steam:

1. Open Steam and Go to Big Picture Mode: Launch the Steam client and click on the Big Picture Mode icon in the top-right corner.

2. Connect Your Controller:

   • If you’re connecting via USB, plug the controller into your PC.

   • If you’re connecting via Bluetooth, follow the same Bluetooth pairing steps as mentioned earlier.

3. Configure Your Controller Settings:

   • In Big Picture Mode, go to Settings > Controller Settings.

   • Check the box for PlayStation Configuration Support.

   • Steam will automatically recognize your PS4 controller and allow you to configure button mappings and adjust settings.

4. Start Playing: You’re all set! Steam will now recognize your controller in any game that supports controller input.

Steam’s Big Picture Mode ensures your PS4 controller is fully compatible with most games, making it a great option for gamers who prefer the Steam platform.

Tips for Smooth PS4 Controller Connection

• Update Drivers: Ensure your PC’s drivers, including Bluetooth drivers, are up-to-date for the best experience.

• Use DS4Windows for Advanced Customization: If you want additional features like remapping buttons or adjusting the light bar, you can use DS4Windows, a third-party tool that makes the PS4 controller feel more native to Windows.

• Check Game Compatibility: While most modern games support controllers, some older PC games may require additional setup. Always check the game’s input settings if you encounter issues.

See Also: 2 Ways to Turn Off PS4 Controller

PS4 Controller not connecting to PC – possible reasons and how to fix

If you’re having trouble connecting your PS4 controller to your PC, you’re not alone. While it’s usually a straightforward process, there are several reasons why your controller might not be connecting properly. In this guide, we’ll go over the possible reasons and provide solutions to get your PS4 controller up and running with your PC in no time.

1. USB Cable Issues

Possible Reason: A faulty or incompatible USB cable could be preventing your PS4 controller from connecting to your PC. If you’re using a damaged or non-compatible cable, the connection may fail.

How to Fix:

• Try a Different USB Cable: Use a high-quality, working USB cable that is designed for both charging and data transfer. The standard PS4 charging cable should work, but it’s worth checking if the cable is damaged.

• Test the Cable with Another Device: If the cable works with other devices but not with your controller, the issue may lie with the controller itself.

2. Outdated or Missing Drivers

Possible Reason: Your PC may be missing the necessary drivers for your PS4 controller, which is why it’s not connecting. Windows should typically install these drivers automatically, but sometimes it fails.

How to Fix:

• Update Your Windows Drivers:

  • Go to Device Manager by right-clicking on the Start button.

  • Find the Human Interface Devices section and expand it.

  • Right-click on the Wireless Controller or PS4 Controller and choose Update Driver.

  • Choose Search automatically for updated driver software and let Windows find and install any missing drivers.

• Install DS4Windows: For more control and better compatibility, consider using DS4Windows. This software helps map the PS4 controller to a Windows-friendly interface, allowing for enhanced customization and a smoother connection.

See Also: 8 Ways to Connect PS5 Controller to PS5 Console, PC

3. Bluetooth Connectivity Issues

Possible Reason: If you’re trying to connect your PS4 controller via Bluetooth, there may be issues with your PC’s Bluetooth connection. This could be due to outdated Bluetooth drivers, interference, or incorrect pairing procedures.

How to Fix:

• Update Bluetooth Drivers:

  • Go to Device Manager, expand the Bluetooth section, and update your Bluetooth drivers as you would for the USB drivers.

  • Alternatively, visit the website of your Bluetooth adapter manufacturer for the latest drivers.

• Ensure Proper Pairing:

  • Press and hold the PS button and Share button on the controller until the light bar starts blinking.

  • On your PC, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices, and ensure Bluetooth is enabled.

  • Select Add Bluetooth or other device, and choose Bluetooth. You should see Wireless Controller appear in the list—click on it to pair.

• Check for Interference: If other Bluetooth devices are nearby, they may cause interference. Try moving the controller and PC away from other devices that use Bluetooth.

See Also: 5 Steps to Change Language on DS4 Controller

4. Windows Not Recognizing the Controller

Possible Reason: Sometimes, Windows simply doesn’t recognize the controller due to software glitches or hardware conflicts.

How to Fix:

• Restart Your PC: A quick restart can often resolve many connectivity issues.

• Try a Different USB Port: If you’re using a wired connection, try plugging the controller into a different USB port on your PC. Avoid USB hubs and connect directly to the PC.

• Check for Hardware Issues: Test the controller on another PC or device (like a PlayStation) to see if the issue lies with the controller itself.

5. Steam Big Picture Mode Settings

Possible Reason: If you’re using Steam to play games, sometimes the controller settings might not be configured correctly within Steam’s Big Picture Mode.

How to Fix:

• Enable Controller Support in Steam:

  • Open Steam and click on the Big Picture Mode icon in the top-right corner.

  • Go to Settings > Controller Settings, and check the box for PlayStation Configuration Support.

  • This ensures that Steam recognizes your PS4 controller and can map buttons correctly.

6. Controller Battery Issues

Possible Reason: If your PS4 controller has a low battery or is not charged, it may fail to connect via Bluetooth or USB.

How to Fix:

• Charge the Controller: Plug the controller into your PC via USB or use a PS4 charging dock to ensure the controller has enough power.

• Check the Battery Status: On Windows, you may see the battery status of your controller once it’s connected via Bluetooth. If it’s low, charge it up before reconnecting.

7. Incompatible Game or Software

Possible Reason: Some older PC games or software may not support controllers, or the controller may not be properly recognized by certain games.

How to Fix:

• Check Game Settings: Some games require you to manually enable controller support. Look in the game’s settings to make sure that it is set up to recognize a controller.

• Try Other Games: If your controller works in other games but not in one specific title, it may be an issue with that game’s settings.

Conclusion

Connecting a PS4 controller to your PC can elevate your gaming experience, whether you prefer the traditional wired connection or the freedom of wireless gameplay. With these easy methods, you can get your PS4 controller connected to your PC in no time.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your PS4 controller, follow these simple steps, and jump into your favorite PC games with a more comfortable, console-like gaming experience.

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