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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 prefer a wired or wireless connection, we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to pair your PS4 controller with your PC, ensuring a smooth gaming experience.
If you’re facing issues with your PS4 controller not connecting to your PC or not working properly, we’ll also address troubleshooting tips to help you resolve any problems.
So, let’s get started with our comprehensive PS4 controller pairing guide that covers both wired and wireless methods of connecting your controller to your PC.
Wired Method for Connecting a DualShock 4 to a PC
The wired method of connecting a DualShock 4 controller to a PC is straightforward. Simply plug the controller into a USB port on the PC using a USB-to-micro-USB cable. This establishes the physical connection between the controller and the PC.
After connecting, the necessary drivers will be installed automatically, and the controller will be recognized by the PC.
Advantages of Using the Wired Method
Using the wired method to connect your DualShock 4 controller to a PC offers a few advantages:
- Stable connection: With a wired connection, you won’t experience any lag or latency issues that can sometimes occur with wireless connections.
- No need for additional accessories: The wired method doesn’t require any additional Bluetooth adapters or dongles, making it a hassle-free option.
- Compatibility: The wired method works with any PC that supports USB connections, ensuring broad compatibility.
By following these simple steps, you can quickly set up your DualShock 4 controller for gaming on your PC.
| Steps | Description |
|---|---|
| Step 1 | Plug the DualShock 4 controller into a USB port on your PC using a USB-to-micro-USB cable. |
| Step 2 | Wait for the necessary drivers to be installed automatically. |
| Step 3 | Once the drivers are installed, the PC will recognize the DualShock 4 controller. |
Now that your DualShock 4 controller is connected to your PC, you can enjoy your favorite games with the comfort and familiarity of the controller.
Wireless Method for Connecting a DualShock 4 to a PC
To connect a DualShock 4 controller to a PC wirelessly, follow these steps:
- First, ensure that the DualShock 4 controller is turned off.
- Then, press and hold the PlayStation and Share buttons simultaneously until the light bar on the controller starts to double flash.
- Access the Bluetooth menu on the PC via the system tray.
- Click “Add Bluetooth or other device.”
- Select “Bluetooth.”
- Choose the DualShock 4 controller from the list of available devices.
The PC will establish a wireless connection with the controller, allowing for gameplay without the need for a physical connection.
Benefits of Wireless Connection
Connecting the DualShock 4 to a PC wirelessly offers several advantages. Firstly, it eliminates the need for a physical connection, providing more freedom and flexibility during gameplay. Secondly, it allows for a clutter-free gaming setup, without tangled cables. Lastly, a wireless connection enables seamless mobility, making it easier to play games from a comfortable distance. By following the simple steps mentioned above, you can effortlessly pair your DualShock 4 controller with your PC and enjoy an enhanced gaming experience.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wireless convenience | Potential connectivity issues |
| Flexibility during gameplay | Possible input lag |
| Clutter-free gaming setup | Dependency on Bluetooth technology |
Configuring the DualShock 4 on a PC
After connecting the DualShock 4 controller to a PC, it is important to configure it properly to ensure seamless gameplay. As most Windows games utilize Microsoft’s XInput, which processes inputs from Xbox 360 and Xbox One controllers, some adjustments are needed to make the DualShock 4 compatible with PC gaming.
Since the DualShock 4 does not inherently send XInput commands, a wrapper is essential to translate its inputs for PC compatibility. Two popular options for this are DS4Windows and Steam’s controller compatibility settings.
DS4Windows is a freeware program that cleverly tricks the PC into recognizing the DualShock 4 as an Xbox 360 controller. This software offers various customization options, including remapping buttons, adjusting dead zones, and even changing the color of the light bar to suit your preference.
Alternatively, Steam provides built-in controller compatibility settings accessible through the Steam app. By enabling PlayStation Configuration Support in the settings, the DualShock 4 can be seamlessly utilized for playing games on the Steam platform.
FAQ
How do I pair a PS4 controller to a PC?
To pair a PS4 controller to a PC, you can use either the wired or wireless method. For the wired method, simply plug the controller into a USB port using a USB-to-micro-USB cable. For the wireless method, turn off the controller, then press and hold the PlayStation and Share buttons until the light bar starts flashing. Access the Bluetooth menu on your PC, click “Add Bluetooth or other device,” select “Bluetooth,” and choose the DualShock 4 controller from the list.
How do I connect a DualShock 4 controller to a PC using a wired method?
Connect the DualShock 4 controller to a PC by plugging it into a USB port using a USB-to-micro-USB cable. The necessary drivers will be installed automatically, and the controller will be recognized by the PC.
How do I connect a DualShock 4 controller to a PC using the wireless method?
To connect a DualShock 4 controller to a PC wirelessly, ensure the controller is turned off. Then, press and hold the PlayStation and Share buttons simultaneously until the light bar on the controller starts flashing. Access the Bluetooth menu on your PC, click “Add Bluetooth or other device,” select “Bluetooth,” and choose the DualShock 4 controller from the list of available devices.
How do I configure the DualShock 4 controller on a PC?
After connecting the DualShock 4 controller to a PC, you may need to configure it properly. Most Windows games use Microsoft’s XInput, which processes inputs from Xbox 360 and Xbox One controllers. To make the DualShock 4 compatible with PC games, you can use programs like DS4Windows or enable PlayStation Configuration Support in Steam settings. DS4Windows tricks the PC into recognizing the DualShock 4 as an Xbox 360 controller, offering customization options for the controller’s inputs. Steam’s controller compatibility settings enable the use of the DualShock 4 to play games on Steam.
