PS5 Controller Not Connecting – Our 4 Easy Fixes

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Arsalan Shakil

At HI Digital I test and write about different hardware configurations to show other PC users what they can expect from their build. My end goal is to educate the masses to make the right decision when they are looking for new PC parts to buy

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The PS5 controller can sometimes be a hassle, often not connecting which may lead to a bad gaming experience. This frustrating issue can be caused by various factors, including firmware issues, Bluetooth connectivity problems, or even physical damage to the controller.

Method Difficulty Rating

Resetting The Controller

After testing, this method was by far the most helpful, fixing the issue most of the time. Resetting the controller is one of the most common solutions for fixing PS5 controller connectivity issues.

When you reset the controller, it clears its cache and removes any temporary data that may be causing the problem. We tried this step and it worked for us. Here’s how to do it:

1. Reset Controller: Find the small hole on the top of the controller housing the reset button > Insert a pin and push down > When the controller lights start to flash it means the reset was successful.

   

2. Reconnect the Controller: Hold the PS and Create buttons simultaneously until the controller’s lights stop flashing > This should take about three to four seconds > Verify that it is working by checking the controller icon on the screen.

Update The Firmware

Sometimes outdated software results in connectivity issues and many others. PlayStation frequently releases new updates for their consoles. Making sure that your controller is up to date minimizes any controller-related issues.

When facing the issue, we noticed that updating the firmware resolved the issue for us. You can learn more about this step on the Play Station forum. Follow these steps to update the firmware:

1. Access Controller Settings: Connect the controller to the console using the USB-C cable that came with it > Go to settings from the main menu > Select “Accessories” to access the controller settings.

   

2. Update the controller: Select “Controllers” to access the controller settings > Select “General” > Select “Dualsense Wireless Controller Device Software” The console will now check for any available firmware updates for the controller > If an update is available click on update and confirm.

   

3. Verify the connection: Disconnect the USB-C cable > Try reconnecting the controller to the console wirelessly.

Forgetting The Device

One way to fix controller connectivity issues is to forget the device on your console and then reconnect. This method, although very helpful, is once again limited to those with another controller to work with. Here’s how you can work around this issue using another controller:

1. Open Bluetooth accessories: Go into “Settings” > Navigate to the “Accessories” option and select “Bluetooth Accessories.”

   

2. Delete Device: Find your DualSense Controller > select “Delete.”

   

3. Connect Controller: Press and hold the “Create” and the “PS” buttons on the DualSense controller > Select “Add device” > Find your controller on the list of devices > Select it to begin the pairing process.

Switching To Ethernet

It’s important to note that this is a temporary fix and may not work for everyone. Additionally, you will not be able to use Wi-Fi as it seems to interfere with the Bluetooth signal that your controller uses to connect to your console. This step helped us reconnect our controller when facing the issue and also helped users in the steam community. Follow these steps:

1. Open Network Settings: Go to your PS5 settings menu > select “Network.”

   

2. Select LAN Cable: Choose “Set Up Internet Connection” > “Use a LAN Cable.”

   

   

3. Connect Controller: Plug one end of the LAN cable to your PS5 and the other to your router or modem > Wait for the PS5 to recognize the connection > Hard reset your PS5 controller >Plug it into the USB port on your console and it should connect.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, addressing the PlayStation 5 controller not connecting issue requires careful consideration of potential factors such as firmware updates, interference, and battery levels. While on Reddit I stumbled upon people discussing this issue in detail

Users should exercise caution, avoid unofficial fixes, and seek assistance from official support channels if problems persist, ensuring a reliable and optimized gaming experience. People facing this issue have turned to Twitter to cast their voices claiming that their controller will not connect. 

@AskPS_UK @PlayStation @SonyPlay5tation guys can’t someone help me fix this I got it yesterday and today this it’s only been 24 hrs @PlayStationUK the controller is not connecting it was connected the last time I switched off the PS5!! pic.twitter.com/KefGqxy6au

— Daniel Albuquerque (@OtakuDaniel07) November 20, 2020

Although the exact cause may differ the issue is the same and prevents the PS5 controller from connecting to the device.

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• How to Reset PS5 Controller

Arsalan Shakil

[How-To Guides Expert]

Laiba, our tech guru at HI Digital, simplifies and crafts How-To Guides with a Google IT Support Certificate. Beyond tech, she captures the city’s aesthetics through her lens. Join her journey where tech meets creativity!

Get In Touch: Laiba@hidgt.com