How do you use the PS5 controller on PC? How do you set up the PS5 DualSense controller for Steam? Much like the DualShock 4 pad, you can easily connect Sony's latest controller to a personal computer to play games on it. For this setup, we'll be connecting the PS5 controller to a PC through Steam. In this PS5 guide, we're going to reveal how to use the PS5 DualSense controller on PC. For more information, be sure to check out: Can You Use a PS5 Controller on PS4?
How to Use the PS5 DualSense Controller on PC
To start the process of connecting the PS5 DualSense controller to your PC, open up the Steam application, select Settings, then Controller, and finally General Controller Settings. Next, you'll need to set up the PS5 DualSense pad for use on your computer. To do this via Bluetooth, hold both the PlayStation button and the Create button at the same time for a few seconds. The controller should then start repeatedly flashing. This is your cue to head to your Bluetooth settings on your desktop and add a new Bluetooth device. The PS5 DualSense controller should be listed as "Wireless Controller".
Once the two devices are connected, switch back to Steam and you will be prompted to configure the PS5 DualSense pad. If that doesn't happen, click on the device and select "Define Layout". From here, map the PlayStation buttons as you wish. Once finished, save and name the controller and be sure to select that it is a PS4 controller. You will now get PlayStation prompts in PC games that support the feature. The final step is to enable "Generic Gamepad Configuration Support". With all of that complete, you will now be able to use the PS5 DualSense controller on PC.
Were you having trouble setting up the PS5 DualSense controller for use on PC? Check out our PS5 guide for more information and let us know which titles on Steam you're using the pad for in the comments below.
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I'm probably going to get one of those new Xbox Wireless controllers for PC specifically. It seems like a lot less of a hassle since Microsoft natively supports that controller on PC and Steam is a lot less finicky in regards to setting up preferences in that regard.
@TheFrenchiestFry Yeah, Xbox controllers are the best for PC and Mobile Gaming
I just use DS4Windows for my DualShock 4. It works so much better than Steam’s settings because it makes the PC think it’s an Xbox controller. That means it works great with Game Pass games, emulators and older games too.
I tried following the guide but then I realized I don’t have the controller yet lol.
@nessisonett doesn't work with the dual sense yet, already tried that route
Can we get an in depth article on the PS5 controller on PS3?
I want to know if the motion controls work on it.
The most exciting thing for me is I heard DualSence works with PS3. Dualshock 3 controllers are becoming rare so this a great bit of news.
@HotGoomba___Rebrand Except for fighting games.
@rachetmarvel Yeah, your right. A GameCube Controller would be good for those (or at least Smash...)
What was interesting was when I was playing Serious Sam 4 with my dualsense routing audio to my headphones, the haptics did the bass frequencies through the controller. Felt so cool!
Would you suggest any specific set-ups when connecting through USB if you're a super latency-sensitive gamer?
Any info on how it's working with the official DS4 wireless adapter?
@tinCAT-zero That's odd! I still have 2 working DS3 controllers so I'm not desperate but cool they added that.
If it's anything like the DS4, connect it via USB and it just works.
@HotGoomba___Rebrand A GC controller would suck for any fighting game that isn't a 3D fighter like SoulCalibur or Smash
The DualShock 4 this gen is easily the best standard controller for fighting games if you don't care about investing in stuff like fightpads or fight sticks
@TheFrenchiestFry @HotGoomba___Rebrand @nessisonett Hi there fellow gamers.
I used to use DS4W before i got my Xbox One controller as well. But now, most of my PC games recognise my DS4. no problem, even without steam settings, so I´m good. I use my Xbox One for shooters and racing games.
As for fighting games, in my personal oppinion, the DS4 is the best controller hands down. I can´t seem to do much with other controllers. I try to do motions and it just doesn´t work for me.
That is why it´s awesome to be able to play Killer Instinct with a DS4. And every fighting game for that matter.
Cheers, stay safe and happy gaming to us all
@TheFrenchiestFry The Vita’s the best controller I’ve used for a fighting game. The D-Pad and buttons are just so clicky.
@nessisonett I used my Vita for practicing Ultimate Marvel 3 and BlazBlue but ever since I started playing more games on Steam like SFV and KOFXIII I've used the Xbox One Wireless, DualShock 4 and even the Switch Pro Controller
XB1 actually isn't that bad for it and Series X's d-pad actually looks like it'll be solid for directional inputs if they're basing it off the Elite d-pad
Not working for me. I have games that support DS4 and I followed the settings exactly but no luck.
I wish Sony would just develop proper drivers for Windows for the DS5.
In case you love using the PlayStation controller but can't be bothered with the plebian console?
I can confirm that even if you set it up in this manner it is NOT guaranteed to work properly for every game. I got it to work perfectly well with DooM: Eternal however Dark Souls 3 had issues with R2 and the haptic rumble not working. Those were the only inputs that would not work in that game.
I also suggest when you set it up on steam you enter big picture mode first. The set up itself automatically goes to big picture mode and it becomes really wonky if that window is in big picture mode and the normal Steam window is not.
Also when the author says “The final step is to enable "Generic Gamepad Configuration Support" I think he’s saying you have to right click the game in your library and go to properties to “force” the game to accept a controller, otherwise it’ll auto default to M&KB when you try to play.
Anyways it’s a great controller. I’ve always favored Xbox controllers over PS but this might change the tide on that 😎🕹
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