Have you been facing issues while connecting your PlayStation 5 DualSense controller to the PlayStation? If yes, you’re in the right place. The PS5 controller outperforms the previous generation on a number of fronts, but sometimes it just won’t connect. What’s the deal?
A PS5 Controller may have connection issues due to Bluetooth interference or damaged cables. A wireless connection issue can typically be solved by restarting and re-pairing the controller and the console. If the problem persists, consider moving other Bluetooth devices away from the area.
Many factors could be causing connection issues between the controller and your PS5. So, let’s find out how exactly to pair the PS5 controller with the PS5 without any connectivity issues!
Why Won’t Your PS5 Controller Connect?
The new PS5 DualSense controller (on Amazon) has advanced technology with amazing features and flawless controls. Some users report strange behavior like input lag or the DuelSense keeps flashing blue after turning it on, and for some the remote just plan won’t connect at all!
If you want to get rid of these issues and avoid losing a game due to controller connectivity issues, you’ll be glad to hear that the PS5 controller not connecting to the console isn’t hard to fix. And if you keep losing connection after this, check out our separate guide.
Next, let’s talk about the root cause of this issue. Anything from a damaged USB port to Bluetooth interference could be causing a connectivity issue. So, let’s see what the problem is.
Bluetooth Interference
The Bluetooth of the PS5 controller has a wide range. You can sit far away and use the controller, and you shouldn’t face any issues in the connectivity or performance of the controller. However, if the Bluetooth signals are interrupted by another device, it can cause connectivity issues.
If two devices present in the same place have the same Bluetooth signal frequency, they can cancel out each other’s signal. This causes the controller to disconnect from the console.
Moreover, the Bluetooth circuit of your controller could be damaged, especially if your controller is an older one. Hitting the controller too hard or dropping it on the floor can damage various components inside, including the Bluetooth circuit.
Connection With Another Device
If you’ve previously connected your controller with another device and that device is turned on, the controller will automatically connect to it. You have to turn off the previous devices or disconnect the controller from them manually.
The controller saves previous data and connects to the signal that it was previously connected with when you turn it back on.
Damaged Cables or Ports
Wrong or damaged cables won’t let your controller connect with the console in peace. The USB port of your PS5 could also be damaged. Dirt and debris stuck in the port can cause connection issues as well.
Low Battery
If your controller’s battery is low and you try to use it, it might disconnect in the middle of a game. Keeping your controller charged is necessary for it to function properly, but if you suspect battery issues check out our related guide.
How Can You Fix a PS5 Controller That Won’t Connect?
Now that you know what could be causing a connection problem between the PS5 controller and console, you can easily find a practical solution. Below, we have the quickest solutions to this problem.
Restart Console and Controller
Sometimes, simply restarting the console and the controller will fix the issue. Restarting both devices will disconnect the Bluetooth and establish a connection again. This should be your first step to fixing the connectivity problem.
Turn Off Other Devices
Turn off all the devices that your controller was previously connected with. If you don’t want to turn off a particular device, you can turn off its Bluetooth or forget the controller from the settings.
Moreover, no other Bluetooth signals should be turned on in the same room as your console and controller to avoid any signal interference.
Connect via USB Cable
If the Bluetooth connection is causing trouble, you can switch to a wired connection. Use a USB cable to connect the controller with your console and check if the issue has been resolved.
If you need a USB cable, try the Talk Works USB C Charger Cable (on Amazon). Make sure that the USB port of your console is clean and working properly. Otherwise, you can try shifting to another USB port.
Update the System Software
Outdated firmware of your console can cause connectivity issues. Make sure that your console is updated to the latest update. For this, follow the steps below:
- Go to settings and select “System.”
- Choose “System Software” and then “System Software Update and Settings.”
- Click on “Update System Software” if any updates are available.
- Wait until the update is installed and check if the issue has been resolved.
Factory Reset the Controller
Factory resetting the controller will wipe out its memory, and the device will be fresh as new. This is a great way to try and fix thubstick drift or phantom vibrations too. To perform a factory reset, you need a needle or a paperclip. You’ll find the reset button at the back of the controller inside a small hole.
Follow the steps given below:
- Turn off the controller.
- Using a needle or a paperclip, press the button inside the hole for 5 seconds.
- Let go of the button and turn on the controller again.
- After the reset, you will have to connect the controller again with the console. Check if the issue has been resolved or not.
Protect Your Controller
Protect your controller from dirt, liquid, and user damage. If you damage the Bluetooth circuit, the controller won’t connect with the PS5. Don’t throw it on the floor or let any hard object hit it.
You can keep the controller in a cover to prevent scratches and liquid damage. Decal Moments PS5 Controller Skin Cover (on Amazon) is a good option.
Perform a Power Cycle
Performing a power cycle on the console is another way to wipe out its memory. Power cycling the console removes corrupted data and random bugs.
To perform a power cycle:
- Turn off the controller and the console.
- Hold the power button of the PS5 for 7 seconds until you hear two beeps. Release the button on the second beep.
- Remove the controller and power cable from the console.
- Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Plug the controller and power cable back into the console after 30 minutes.
- Turn on the console and the controller.
- Re-pair the controller with the console.
Factory Reset the PS5
If different controllers aren’t connecting to your PS5, and they are connecting to another device, the issue is probably with your console. In that case, you can factory reset the PS5.
Before performing a factory reset, backup all your important data. Factory resetting the PS5 will remove all the data from the console.
To perform a factory reset on the PS5, follow the given steps:
- Go to the settings.
- Select “System” and go to “System Software.”
- Click on “Reset Options” present at the bottom.
- Click on “Reset Your Console.”
- Click on “Reset” and wait for the process to complete.
Contact PlayStation Customer Support
If nothing is working, you need to contact customer support. Go to the PlayStation website and get live chat help. Customer support will help you find a solution. You can also make a call for quick advice.
In case of a hardware malfunction in the PlayStation, you can send it for a repair. However, this option should only come if none of the aforementioned solutions are working for you. If the controller has reached its end, it may be time to invest in a new one.
How Do You Pair a PS5 Controller?
Make sure that your controller is paired with the PS5 properly if you want a stable connection. Use the right USB cable and keep your controller charged.
A low controller battery can disrupt the connection. The USB port of the console should be working properly.
Follow the steps below to connect the controller to your PS5:
- Turn on the controller by pressing the PS button until the light bar blinks.
- Turn on the console by pressing the power button.
- If your controller has sufficient battery, you don’t need to use a USB cable. But if the battery is low, connect the controller with the console through the original USB cable.
- Enable Bluetooth on the console from settings.
- Select the controller in the list of available Bluetooth devices and connect to it.
- Check for the light bar to blink when the connection is completed.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to properly connect the PS5 controller with the PS5 console, you can enjoy a better gaming experience. Both wireless and wired connections are good for gamers.
You can switch up between these options or choose one and stick with it as per your liking. Happy gaming!