Method 1: USB Connection (Easiest)

  1. 1

    Plug in with a USB-C to USB-A cable

    Connect the DualSense controller to your PC using a USB-C cable (the same type used to charge the controller). Plug the USB-A end into a USB port on your PC. Windows installs the driver automatically — no software download required. The controller is recognised immediately and ready to use.

Method 2: Bluetooth Connection

  1. 2

    Put the controller in pairing mode

    With the controller off, hold the PS button and the Create button (the small button to the left of the touchpad) simultaneously for about 3 seconds until the light bar at the top of the controller flashes blue rapidly. This indicates pairing mode.

  2. 3

    Pair in Windows Bluetooth settings

    On your PC: Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Add device → Bluetooth. The controller appears as “DualSense Wireless Controller.” Click it to pair. The light bar turns solid once connected.

Using the DualSense on PC

Most modern PC games (Steam, Epic Games, Game Pass) recognise the DualSense and display PlayStation button prompts (X, circle, triangle, square). Games with Xbox controller prompts still work — buttons are just labelled differently (Cross = A, Circle = B etc). For games that do not support the DualSense natively: download DS4Windows (free) which maps DualSense inputs to an Xbox controller profile that all games understand.

Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers on PCThe DualSense’s advanced features — haptic feedback and adaptive trigger resistance — are supported in PC games that specifically implement them (currently limited compared to PS5). Most PC games will use the controller as a standard gamepad. Steam has added DualSense haptic and trigger support for select games.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes — Steam has excellent DualSense support. In Steam Big Picture mode or Steam settings, the DualSense is recognised and can be configured with full button mapping. Steam also enables haptic feedback and adaptive triggers in supported Steam games. Go to Steam → Settings → Controller → PlayStation Controller Support to configure.
DS4Windows is a free open-source application that makes PlayStation controllers appear as Xbox controllers to Windows. You need it for older games that only support Xbox controllers and do not natively recognise DualSense/DualShock. Modern games and Steam typically work fine without it. Download from ds4-windows.com if you encounter compatibility issues with specific games.