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The DualShock 4 controller, designed for the Sony PlayStation 4, can also be used with a PC for gaming. Whether you’re a fan of PC gaming or simply prefer using the DualShock 4 controller, connecting it to your PC is simple and easy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to connect your DualShock 4 controller to your PC, both wired and wirelessly, so you can enjoy your favorite PC games with enhanced precision and comfort.
If you’re new to the world of PC gaming and want to bring the familiar feel of the DualShock 4 to your gaming sessions, or if you’ve been a PC gamer for years and want to try a new controller, the DualShock 4 is a great choice. Its ergonomic design, intuitive button layout, and precise analog sticks make it a popular choice among gamers of all levels.
Let’s dive into the details of connecting your DualShock 4 to your PC and get you ready for an immersive PC gaming experience.
How to Configure the DualShock 4 on Your PC
After connecting the DualShock 4 to your PC, you will need to configure it for optimal performance. Most Windows games use Microsoft’s XInput, so a wrapper is required to translate the DualShock 4’s inputs.
Two popular options for configuring the DualShock 4 on your PC are DS4Windows and Steam’s controller compatibility settings.
DS4Windows:
DS4Windows is a freeware program that tricks your PC into recognizing the DualShock 4 as an Xbox 360 controller. This allows you to use the DualShock 4 with games that have native XInput support. With DS4Windows, you can customize various settings such as remapping controls, adjusting sensitivity, and changing the light bar color.
Steam:
If you’re a Steam user, the platform provides native support for the DualShock 4. To configure your controller within Steam, follow these steps:
- Open the Steam client on your PC.
- Go to the Settings menu.
- In the Settings menu, click on the Controller tab.
- From the Controller tab, click on General Controller Settings.
- Ensure that the PlayStation Configuration Support box is checked.
This option allows you to use the DualShock 4 controller natively with Steam games. You can also customize various settings in the Controller tab, such as button mappings, rumble, and lighting.
It’s important to note that using DS4Windows and Steam’s controller compatibility mode simultaneously may cause issues, so choose one method based on your preferences and the games you play.
Using a DualShock 4 with Steam
If you’re an avid gamer who primarily uses Steam for your gaming needs, connecting and using a DualShock 4 controller with Steam is a breeze. Simply open the Steam client on your PC and navigate to the Settings menu. Once there, click on the Controller tab and select General Controller Settings.
Within the General Controller Settings, make sure to check the box that says “PlayStation Configuration Support.” This option enables you to use the DualShock 4 controller seamlessly with Steam games. Now, connect your DualShock 4 controller to your PC, and Steam should automatically detect and recognize it.
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From the Controller tab, you’ll have the flexibility to customize various settings to suit your gaming preferences. This includes mapping buttons, adjusting rumble intensity, and even changing the lighting effects on the controller. However, it’s worth noting that while Steam’s DualShock 4 compatibility works reliably with Steam games, it may not be as consistent when used with non-Steam games. In such cases, referring back to Section 2 and utilizing DS4Windows is recommended.
By following these simple steps, you can seamlessly integrate your DualShock 4 controller with Steam, allowing for an enhanced gaming experience and increased customization options.
FAQ
How can I connect a DualShock 4 controller to my PC for gaming?
There are two methods to connect the DualShock 4 to a PC: wired and wireless. For the wired method, simply plug the controller into a USB port using a USB-to-micro-USB cable. To connect wirelessly, make sure the DualShock 4 is turned off and then press and hold the PlayStation and Share buttons until the light bar starts flashing. Access the Bluetooth menu on your PC and select the DualShock 4 controller from the list that appears.
How do I configure the DualShock 4 for optimal performance on my PC?
To ensure optimal performance, you will need to use a wrapper to translate the DualShock 4’s inputs. Two popular options for this are DS4Windows and Steam’s controller compatibility settings. DS4Windows tricks your PC into recognizing the DualShock 4 as an Xbox 360 controller and offers customization options for remapping controls, adjusting sensitivity, and changing the light bar color. Steam provides native support for the DualShock 4, allowing you to configure it within the Steam settings menu. Please note that using DS4Windows and Steam’s controller compatibility mode simultaneously may cause issues, so choose one method based on your preferences and the games you play.
How can I use a DualShock 4 controller with Steam?
If you primarily play games on Steam, using the DualShock 4 is straightforward. Open the Steam client and go to Settings. In the Controller tab, click on General Controller Settings. Ensure that the PlayStation Configuration Support box is checked. This option allows you to use the DualShock 4 controller natively with Steam games. Connect your DualShock 4 to your PC, and it should be recognized by Steam. From the Controller tab, you can customize various settings such as button mappings, rumble, and lighting. Keep in mind that using Steam’s DualShock 4 compatibility may not work consistently with non-Steam games. In such cases, using DS4Windows as mentioned in Section 2 is recommended.
