Multiple PlayStation 4 users have reported a continuous blinking blue light that appears on their controllers. Although this can be concerning, it probably doesn’t indicate the death of your beloved console. So, what gives?
The blinking blue light on your PS4 controller means it’s attempting to pair with the console. It should turn solid blue shortly after the console is turned on, but if it keeps blinking, start by resetting and re-pairing the controller, and updating the controller and console.
Let’s take a closer look at what you need to know about the dreaded blinking blue light and how you can go about fixing it. We’ll get you back to gaming in no time!
Why Does My PS4 Controller Keep Blinking Blue?
There are several reasons why your controller might be blinking blue, including the following:
- Software Issues: Outdated software, glitches, and bugs can cause your PS4 controller to malfunction.
- Hardware Issues: Loose screws, improperly placed hard drives, and other hardware errors can cause your PS4 to randomly turn off and show a blinking blue light.
- Incompatibility Issues: Incompatible devices and pairings can sometimes cause malfunctions.
- Power Supply Issues: Damage to the power supply, frayed cables, and other wear and tear can easily cause problems.
And note that, while we’re going to discuss the fix relative to using the controller with a PS4 in this article, some users use their PS4 controller to control other devices like their iPad (forum link), and the same connection failure has the same behavior here: the blinking blue light.
Here’s a quick-reference table you can use to navigate this issue, and below, we’ll step through each of these fixes in a little more detail.
| Solution | How to Implement |
|---|---|
| Reset the Controller | Press the reset button next to the upper right-hand screw for five seconds using a paperclip or similar item, then turn on your console and see if they pair. |
| Repair Devices Using PT Pairing Mode | Reboot controller in pairing mode by holding PS and Share buttons down together. Then, turn the console on and see if they pair. |
| Boot PS4 in Safe Mode | Hold down the power button until PS4 enters Safe Mode. Then, select “Rebuild Database” or “Restore Default Settings.” |
| Update Your Software | Navigate to “Settings” > “System Software Update” on your PS4’s home menu and follow the prompts to update. |
| Check the Power Sources (Rare) | Inspect the power supply cables and inlet for damages. If necessary, replace the power supply cables. |
How Do I Fix My Controller?
A blinking blue light on your controller doesn’t necessarily mean your PS4 is on its last legs. Many users have fixed this problem with proper troubleshooting. Here are some potential fixes:
Reset the Controller
The blinking blue light on your PS4 controller is likely a pairing issue. Thankfully, this issue can be quickly resolved by manually resetting your controller:
- Turn your PS4 controller over. You should see four screws.
- Locate the reset button, which is found in a hole next to the upper right-hand screw.
- Press and hold the button down for five seconds using a paperclip, toothpick, or something similar.
- You may need to pair and re-sync your controller afterward.
Will Resetting a PS4 Controller Delete Any Data?
No, resetting your controller won’t delete any data. It will only unpair it from the console.
Re-Pair Devices Using Bluetooth Mode
Now that you’ve reset your controller, you’ll need to hold the PS and Share buttons down at the same time to reboot the controller in Bluetooth pairing mode. Really, this is just general pairing mode for the controller, but it’s also the Bluetooth pairing behavior when connecting to other devices that aren’t the PS4.
Afterwards, you can try to pair your PS4 controller with your console using the console, which will automatically search for the remote when powered on.
Troubleshoot Your PS4 (Safe Mode)
Booting your PS4 in Safe Mode is another way you can resolve the blinking blue light:
- Hold down the power button until your PS4 turns off.
- Keep holding down the power button until your PS4 enters Safe Mode. You’ll know you’ve entered Safe Mode after hearing a beep.
- Press the PS button on your controller.
- You’ll see the options “Change Resolution,” “Rebuild Database,” and “Restore Default Settings.”
- Select either “Rebuild Database” or “Restore Default Settings.”
- Select Restart.
“Rebuild Database” won’t delete anything unless there’s a corrupted game file. “Restore Default Settings,” however, will delete all data not backed up on the Cloud, so only use this solution as a last-ditch effort to fix your PS4.
Update Your Software
Typically, PS4s have automatic downloads enabled. However, you can also run software updates manually if the situation calls for it.
- Select “Settings” from the home menu using your PS4 controller.
- Choose “System Software Update.”
- Select the option “Update Now.”
- Follow the prompts provided, choose “Next,” and wait for the download to complete. You’ll see the license agreement when the download is finished.
- Accept the software update.
- The software update should begin to install. Your PS4 may restart during the update.
Check the Hard Drive
Loose hardware and shifting hard drives can cause your PS4 to malfunction. If you have some tech experience, you can see if your PS4 hard drive is seated correctly.
- First, hold down the power button until your PS4 turns off.
- Disconnect all the PS4 cables.
- Remove the hard disk drive cover and check the alignment.
- If you notice the alignment is off, you can unfasten the hard drive screw and realign the hard drive.
- Afterward, put the hard disk drive cover back on.
- Plug in all the cables, turn on your PS4, and see if it boots normally.
Check the Power Sources
The blinking blue light could be caused by a faulty power supply or damaged cables:
- Turn off your PS4 by holding down the power button until it beeps twice.
- Disconnect all of the PS4 cables.
- Inspect the power supply cables and inlet for any tears, frays, or other damages.
- If everything looks okay, connect all the PS4 cables and reboot the console.
If the issue continues, you may need to replace the power supply cables altogether. Thankfully, you can find a PS4-compatible AC cord (on Amazon).
Can My Controller Blink Other Colors?
Yes, PS4 controllers can blink and glow in different colors. The color depends on the game you’re playing, what’s going on in the game, and if you have multiple controllers synced.
If you’re playing a party game with multiple controllers involved, each controller will glow a different hue. Here’s what to expect:
- Player 1: Blue
- Player 2: Red
- Player 3: Green
- Player 4: Pink
Various games have different colors as well. For instance, GTA 5 may have your controller glowing red or blue. Games like Destiny, DC Universe, and Far Cry 4 use a variety of hues for different scenarios.
What if My Controller Still Isn’t Working?
If your PS4 controller still isn’t working, there are a few more troubleshooting options available.
Try Another Controller
If you’ve tried all or some of the troubleshooting solutions listed above, it may be time to try another controller. If you don’t have an extra controller, consider borrowing one from a friend to see if the issue persists.
Otherwise, you’ll most likely have to purchase a new one altogether. And note that you can’t use a PS5 controller on your PS4.
Contact PlayStation
If your PlayStation and controller are still acting up, you should consider contacting PlayStation Support. You can visit the official PlayStation Support page to find similar issues or speak with an agent.
Alternatively, you can call them directly at 1-800-345-7669.
Purchase a New, Improved Controller
It may be time to ditch your old controller and get an upgrade. Here are a few of our favorite options.
The Nacon Revolution Pro 3 (on Amazon) is a controller built to last. With wired USB-C connections, you’ll have reduced latency and faster reaction times. The optional weights enable you to find the perfect middle ground.
The main selling point of the Pro 3? The rear buttons that are nestled into the handles allow for easy access without removing your thumbs from the analog sticks.
Other options you can consider are the Horipad FPS Plus (on Amazon) and the Scuf Impact (also on Amazon.
Regardless of which controller you pick, an upgrade can fix the blinking blue light issue and up your game tremendously.