Guide: Fix ‘Windows 10 Not Detecting PS4 Controller’ Issue
PS4 owners who want to use their Dual Shock controller with Windows may struggle, as Xbox is designed to work with the operating system. However, there are two ways to connect a PS4 controller to a computer: wirelessly via Bluetooth or with a USB cable. If your computer isn’t recognizing the controller, this guide provides solutions.
To ensure your USB connections are working properly, clean any dirt or debris from the computer’s USB port and controller port. Use a blow dryer to remove any debris, and check that the USB cable is not faulty or counterfeit. If all else fails, updating the Steam app on your Windows PC may help reconnect your controller.
If your Windows PC isn’t detecting your PS4 controller, it could be due to a driver issue or a Bluetooth connection problem. Try the troubleshooting tips listed below to get your controller working again, or use a Bluetooth USB adapter if you have one.
1. Re-enable Bluetooth
If you’re having trouble connecting your PS4 controller to your Windows PC, try turning off and then back on your computer’s Bluetooth. This can be done from the Action Center or Settings menu.
Re-enable Bluetooth from the action center
Tap the Action Center icon in the lower right corner of the taskbar to open a window with quick access to settings and notifications.
Press the Windows key and A to quickly open the Action Center.
Bluetooth is active when its background is blue.
Tap the Bluetooth icon to display it.
Tap Bluetooth to turn it back on and see if your PC detects the controller.
Re-enable Bluetooth through Windows settings
To access the Windows Settings menu, users can click Devices.
To resolve Bluetooth connection issues, toggle the setting off and on again in the ‘Bluetooth and other devices’ section.
Confirm that your computer is recognizing your PS4 controller. If it is, proceed to the next step in the troubleshooting process.
2. Disconnect / remove controller from PC
If the PS4 controller is no longer detected by your PC after being previously paired via Bluetooth, you must delete it from the list of connected devices and reconnect it. Follow these steps to do so.
To begin, open the Windows Settings menu and select Devices.
Navigate to the ‘Bluetooth and other devices’ section for quick access.
Right-clicking on Bluetooth in the action center and selecting ‘Go to settings’ is an easy way to access Bluetooth settings.
Navigate to the Windows settings menu and find the ‘Bluetooth and other devices’ section.
Find the PS4 controller in the ‘Mouse, Keyboard & Pen’ section and select it.
Disconnect the controller from your computer by tapping ‘Remove device’.
Tap ‘Yes’ on the confirmation prompt to disconnect the controller from your computer.
To get your PS4 controller working on your PC, you’ll need to re-pair it with your computer. Follow the instructions below to connect the controller via Bluetooth and ensure it’s detected.
How to Connect PS4 Controller to PC via Bluetooth
To pair a PS4 controller, press the Share and PS buttons simultaneously for 5 seconds until the LED flashes blue.
Tap ‘Add Bluetooth or other devices’ in the Bluetooth settings menu to connect.
Choose Bluetooth in the new window.
Ensure the PS4 controller is in pairing mode. If your computer does not detect it, try another troubleshooting solution. Otherwise, proceed to step 4.
Users should select the Wireless Controller option.
Ensuring your computer is connected to the controller is essential for optimal performance.
3. Charge the controller
If your PS4 controller isn’t connecting to your computer, it may be due to a low battery. To fix this, plug the controller into a USB power source and charge it for a few minutes. This should allow the device to be detected by your computer.
4. Update the game controller drivers
A Windows PC can be used to power a PS4 controller and other wireless controllers with the help of three main drivers.
A game controller compatible with Human Interface Devices (HID) is now available, allowing gamers to enjoy a more immersive experience.
Updating your PC’s drivers may be the key to getting your PS4 controller detected. Follow these steps to make it happen.
Launch the Windows Quick Access menu by pressing the ‘Windows key + X’ keyboard shortcut, then select Device Manager.
Tap the ‘Human Interface Devices’ dropdown button to reveal drivers for a Bluetooth HID device and a HID complaint game controller.
The Bluetooth Wireless Controller is available in the Bluetooth section.
Right-click the driver you wish to update and select ‘Update driver’ to complete the process.
Choose the option to “Search automatically for updated driver software” to ensure your device is running the latest version.
To keep your computer running smoothly, update the drivers for your hardware. Right-click each one and select “Update Driver” to search for the latest version.
For those experiencing Bluetooth issues with their computer, Sony offers a solution: the DUALSHOCK 4 USB wireless adapter. The adapter, which retails for $16.99, can help eliminate these problems and provide a hassle-free gaming experience.
Enjoy your games
If your computer isn’t recognizing your PS4 controller, try one of the troubleshooting tips provided. That way, you can get back to playing your favorite Windows game.
Having trouble projecting or mirroring content from your PC to an external monitor or TV? Windows not detecting it? Check out this guide for solutions.
Fix ‘Windows 10 Not Detecting PS4 Controller’ Issue: benefits
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Final note
If you’re having trouble getting your Windows 10 PC to recognize your PS4 controller, this guide can help. Got questions? Reach out for assistance. And don’t forget to share the love by passing it along to friends.
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