If your DualSense won’t connect to your PS5, or keeps dropping its connection, first pair it over USB. If that fails, reset the controller, reconnect it with a compatible data cable, then update the console and controller software if you can. Persistent problems should go to PlayStation Repairs for diagnosis.
Pair the DualSense with your PS5 over USB
- Turn on the PS5.
- Connect the DualSense to the console with a USB cable and press the PS button. Use the cable supplied with the controller or another compatible cable that supports data; some USB cables do not work properly for this connection. See PlayStation’s controller support instructions and the DualSense instruction manual.
- If the controller’s battery may be depleted, leave it connected to charge. Once it has enough charge and is paired, disconnect the cable to try wireless use.
A cable that charges a controller may not carry the data needed to pair it. If the PS5 does not recognize the controller, try the supplied cable or a known compatible data cable.
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Reset the controller if pairing fails
- Turn off the PS5 and disconnect the controller from USB.
- Find the small reset button in the hole on the back of the controller, beside the Sony logo.
- Use a pin or similar tool to press and hold the button for at least five seconds.
- Reconnect the controller to the PS5 with the official cable, then press PS.
PlayStation recommends this reset-and-reconnect sequence for DualSense connection problems. If the controller pairs but later disconnects again, continue with the software checks below. The reset and cable steps are not a guaranteed fix for a hardware fault or every wireless problem. See PlayStation’s DualSense troubleshooting guidance.
Update PS5 and DualSense software
If the controller connects well enough to operate the console, install any available PS5 system software update. DualSense controller software updates are included with PS5 system software updates. You can also check the controller software manually at Settings > Accessories > Controller (General) > DualSense Wireless Controller Device Software. PlayStation lists these steps in its DualSense troubleshooting guidance and controller support page.
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Check whether the controller is paired to another PS5
A DualSense is paired with one PS5 console at a time. If you last used it with a different PS5, connect it to the console you want to use by USB and press PS to pair it there. PlayStation says up to four controllers can be used at once on a PS5; that does not change the one-console-at-a-time pairing rule. See PlayStation’s controller support page.
When to contact PlayStation Repairs
If the controller still will not pair after the reset and a compatible data-cable connection, or it continues to disconnect after resetting and updating, use PlayStation Repairs and follow its diagnostic route. The documented steps do not establish one universal cause for recurring disconnects, so further diagnosis is needed rather than assuming the cable, controller, or console is at fault.
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- DualSense Controller PS5 and PC compatible. Not compatible with PS4.
- PS Remote Play requires Remote Play App connected to Wi-Fi, PS4 or PS5 console with the latest system software and compatible game. A PS4 or PS5 console with a wired connection via a LAN cable is recommended. Version 4.0 of the Remote Play App on iOS and iPadOS or version 4.1 on macOS is required for games to be playable with the controller over Bluetooth.
What not to try first
For an isolated controller connection problem, start with USB pairing, controller reset, and software updates—not Safe Mode or a PS5 reset. PlayStation warns that resetting or reinstalling the console software removes user data, and its DualSense troubleshooting guidance directs users to controller-specific steps and Repairs instead.
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- Enjoy precise, comfortable control over 10,000+ supported Steam games.
- Easily pair the controller directly to your Windows PC via Bluetooth or play as you charge with the included USB Type-C cable
- Stay paired with up to four different Bluetooth devices, making it easy to enjoy the controller across Windows PC, Mac, PS5 consoles and smartphones. Discover more connection tips and tricks at playstation.com/pair-dualsense
- Access the latest available controller firmware directly from your PC with the free-todownload PlayStation Accessories app
- Play games streamed from your PS5 or PS4 console to your PC via the PS Remote Play App
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- Elevate PC gaming with advanced features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers in a range of blockbuster PC titles.
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