The PlayStation 5 DualSense controller is widely praised for its comfort, advanced haptics and responsive triggers. Fortunately, it is not just limited to console gaming. You can also connect it to a Windows PC and use it to play games via Steam, Epic Games, emulators or other platforms. Whether you prefer using a wired connection or want to play wirelessly through Bluetooth, pairing your DualSense controller with a PC is simple when you follow the right steps.
This guide explains how to connect your PS5 controller to your PC using both USB and Bluetooth methods. It also covers compatibility and best practices for getting the most out of the controller on Windows.
Wired Connection Using USB-C
The easiest way to connect the DualSense controller to a PC is with a USB-C cable. Most newer PCs have at least one USB-C or USB-A port. Use the cable that came with your PS5 or any compatible USB-C to USB-A or USB-C to USB-C cable.
Plug the cable into the controller and connect the other end to your PC. Once connected, Windows should automatically recognise the controller and install the necessary drivers. You can check that it is working by going to Control Panel > Devices and Printers or by opening Steam and looking under Controller Settings.
Steam has full support for the DualSense, including remapping options and vibration in supported games. If you are playing non-Steam titles, the controller should still function but advanced features like adaptive triggers may not be available.
Wireless Connection Using Bluetooth
If you want to play without wires, you can connect your DualSense controller to your PC using Bluetooth. First, check if your PC has built-in Bluetooth. If not, you will need a USB Bluetooth adapter.
To begin pairing, press and hold the PS button and Create button (next to the D-pad) on the controller until the light bar begins to flash. This puts the controller in pairing mode.
On your PC, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices and click Add Bluetooth or other device. Select Bluetooth then choose Wireless Controller from the list. When prompted, click Pair.
Once connected, the light bar will glow a solid colour. You are now ready to use the controller wirelessly with compatible games and platforms.
Using DualSense on Steam
Steam offers native support for the DualSense controller. Once connected, open Steam and go to Steam > Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings. Tick the box labelled PlayStation Configuration Support.
You can customise button mappings, enable gyro functionality and create specific profiles for different games. Many modern PC games on Steam will detect the DualSense and show PlayStation button icons during gameplay.
Some titles even support the controller’s advanced haptics and adaptive triggers when using Steam Input, although full support is still limited compared to the PS5 console.
Compatibility with Non-Steam Games
You can use the DualSense controller with non-Steam games too, but you may need third-party software such as DS4Windows to enable full compatibility. This tool tricks Windows into thinking the DualSense is a standard Xbox controller, which tends to be better supported across PC games.
For casual use or games that do not rely heavily on controller mapping, the default Bluetooth or USB connection should still work fine. Just bear in mind that features like adaptive triggers and motion sensors might not function unless explicitly supported by the game or platform.
Troubleshooting Tips
If your PC does not detect the controller over Bluetooth, try restarting both the PC and the controller before attempting to pair again. You can also remove the controller from the Bluetooth devices list and start the process again.
If your controller disconnects randomly or lags during gameplay, ensure your Bluetooth drivers are up to date and that there are no signal interferences nearby.
For wired connections, make sure your USB cable supports data transfer. Some cheaper charging cables do not transmit data which can prevent the controller from being recognised.
Final Thoughts
Connecting a PS5 DualSense controller to your PC is quick and straightforward. Whether you use a USB cable for reliability or connect via Bluetooth for convenience, the controller works well with most modern PC games and platforms. While not all features are supported outside the PlayStation ecosystem, the DualSense still provides a comfortable and responsive gaming experience on Windows.