DualSense not pairing or connecting to PS5
When a DualSense won’t pair, connect or charge, the cause is usually its pairing slot or state, a charge-only USB cable, or outdated software. Work through the steps below. If the controller still fails after a reset, Sony’s next step is the PlayStation Repairs diagnostic.
DualSense not pairing or connecting
- Pair over USB. With the console on, connect the controller using a USB data cable and press the PS button. The player indicator lights up once paired.[2]
- Use a data cable. Cables sold as charge-only do not work. Use a charge-and-sync cable.[2]
- Disconnect USB before wireless pairing. A controller connected by USB cannot pair wirelessly or switch to another console's slot.[2]
- Reset the controller. Turn off the console, unplug the controller, then press and hold the reset button in the small hole on the back (next to the Sony logo) for at least 5 seconds. Reconnect with the USB cable and press the PS button.[1]
- Update system software. Update the PS5 system software, which also delivers controller updates.[1]
Pairing a second controller
With controller 1 already connected, go to Settings > Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories. On controller 2 (player indicator off), hold the create button and the PS button together until the light bar blinks, then select it on screen.
Controller used with several devices
A DualSense stores up to four pairings in numbered slots. Hold an action button and press the PS button to pick a slot:
| Slot | Buttons | Player indicator |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | PS + triangle | one light |
| 2 | PS + circle | two lights |
| 3 | PS + cross | three lights |
| 4 | PS + square | four lights |
Hold for about 3 seconds to switch to an existing pairing, or more than 5 seconds to pair to that slot. When all four slots are used, the one unused for longest is replaced.
Hardware differences between the DualSense and DualSense Edge: DualSense vs DualSense Edge.
Sources
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- How to connect a DualSense wireless controller