How to Connect PS5 Controller to PC or Laptop (Bluetooth & USB)

Want to play your favorite PC games using a PlayStation 5 controller? You absolutely can. In fact, connecting a PS5 controller to a PC or laptop is surprisingly simple, whether you prefer a wired connection or want to go wireless via Bluetooth.

The PS5 DualSense isn’t just a great controller for console gaming. It also works seamlessly with Windows 10 and 11, giving you responsive controls, ergonomic comfort, and even haptic feedback in supported titles.

In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to connect a PS5 controller to PC, how to Bluetooth PS5 controller to PC, and how to use your PS5 controller on a laptop. We’ll also show you how to get it working with Steam, non-Steam games, and troubleshooting tips if things don’t go smoothly.

Whether you’re a casual gamer or someone who just prefers the feel of the DualSense over a keyboard, this guide has everything you need to get started, step by step.

Why Use a PS5 Controller on PC?

Before we dive into the steps, let’s quickly talk about why you’d want to connect a PS5 controller to PC:

• Better ergonomics: DualSense is comfortable and has a great grip.
• Adaptive triggers: Some games on PC actually support haptic feedback and trigger resistance.
• Cross-device gaming: Own a PS5 and a gaming laptop? One controller to rule them all.

What You Need Before You Start

To connect your PS5 controller to a PC or laptop, you’ll need:

• A Windows 10 or 11 PC/laptop
• A USB-C cable (for wired connection)
• Or Bluetooth on your PC (for wireless)
• Optionally, Steam (for most PC games)

How to Connect a PS5 Controller to PC Using a USB Cable (Wired)

This is the simplest and most reliable method to connect a PS5 controller to your PC. It provides a direct, low-latency connection, and it’s perfect for both casual and competitive gaming.

• A PS5 DualSense controller
• A USB-C to USB-A or USB-C to USB-C cable (depending on your PC’s ports)
• A Windows 10 or Windows 11 computer

Connect the Controller

• Plug the USB-C end into your PS5 controller.
• Connect the other end to your PC or laptop via a USB port.

Wait for Automatic Detection

• Windows 10 and Windows 11 will automatically recognize the device as a “Wireless Controller.”
• No manual driver installation is required.

Verify the Connection

• Go to “Control Panel” → “Devices and Printers.”
• You should see the PS5 controller listed.
• Right-click the controller and select “Game controller settings” → then click “Properties” to test buttons and joystick input.

Launch a Game

• Open any game that supports controller input. If you’re using Steam, it will detect the PS5 controller instantly and map it correctly.

Why Choose a Wired Connection:

• Zero input lag
• Automatic compatibility with most games
• Supports haptic feedback and adaptive triggers in supported games
• No battery issues

How to Bluetooth PS5 Controller to PC (Wireless Method)

If you prefer a cable-free setup, the PS5 DualSense controller can also be connected via Bluetooth to your PC or laptop. This is a convenient option, especially for casual gaming sessions.

• Windows 10 or Windows 11
• Bluetooth-enabled laptop or desktop (use a USB Bluetooth dongle if your PC does not have built-in Bluetooth)

Put the Controller into Pairing Mode

• Hold down the PS Button and the Create Button (located to the left of the touchpad) together.
• The light bar will start blinking rapidly, indicating it’s in pairing mode.

Open Bluetooth Settings on Your PC

• Windows 11: Go to “Settings” → “Bluetooth & Devices” → “Add Device.”
• Windows 10: Go to “Settings” → “Devices” → “Bluetooth & other devices” → Click “Add Bluetooth or other device.”

Select the Controller

• From the list of available devices, choose “Wireless Controller.”
• Once paired, the light on the controller will stop blinking and stay on.

Confirm the Connection

• You can test the controller in “Devices and Printers” the same way as the wired method.

Additional Tips:

• Make sure you’re within 5 to 10 feet of your computer during pairing.
• Charge the controller fully before first use over Bluetooth.

Why Choose a Wireless Connection:

• Full wireless freedom without cables
• Works with Steam and most modern games
• Great for casual or living room gaming setups

How to Use PS5 Controller on PC via Steam

Steam offers native support for the PS5 DualSense controller. Whether you connect it via USB or Bluetooth, Steam handles most of the heavy lifting for compatibility.

Launch Steam: Ensure your Steam client is up to date.

Go to Controller Settings: In the top-left menu, click on “Steam” → “Settings” → “Controller” → “General Controller Settings.”

Enable PlayStation Controller Support

• Check the box for “PlayStation Configuration Support.”
• Steam will now recognize your PS5 controller and enable full functionality, including button remapping.

Connect Your Controller

• Either plug it in via USB or pair it over Bluetooth as described above.
• Steam should list it as a “PlayStation 5 Controller” under detected devices.

Customize Your Controller

• You can define button layout, joystick sensitivity, and even set up action sets per game.

Supported Features in Steam:

• Button remapping
• Gyro controls
• Haptic feedback (in some titles)
• On-screen PlayStation button prompts

How to Use PS5 Controller on Non-Steam Games

Many games are not available on Steam, such as those from Epic Games Store, EA App, Ubisoft Connect, or Rockstar Launcher. Here’s how to use your PS5 controller with those games.

Option 1: Add Game to Steam Library

Steam’s controller support can be extended to other platforms by adding the non-Steam game to your Steam library.

1. Launch Steam.
2. Click “Games” in the top menu → Select “Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library.”
3. Browse to the game’s .exe file and add it.
4. Launch the game from within Steam, and your PS5 controller will work.

Option 2: Use DS4Windows

DS4Windows is a free, open-source tool that emulates an Xbox controller, which many games natively support.

How to Set Up DS4Windows:

1. Visit https://ds4-windows.com and download the latest version.
2. Extract and run the application.
3. Install the “ViGEmBus” driver when prompted.
4. Connect your PS5 controller via USB or Bluetooth.
5. DS4Windows will recognize the controller and map it as an Xbox 360 controller.
6. Launch your non-Steam game, and it should now detect the input.

Features of DS4Windows:

• Custom button mapping
• Touchpad and gyro support
• Profiles for different games
• Works with any game that supports Xbox controllers

How to Connect PS5 Controller to Laptop (Wired or Wireless)

The method to connect a PS5 controller to a laptop is identical to desktop PCs, but here’s a quick summary for laptop users.

Wired Method:

1. Plug in the USB-C cable from your controller to your laptop.
2. Wait for Windows to detect it.
3. Test and start playing.

Wireless Method:

1. Enable Bluetooth on your laptop.
2. Put the controller in pairing mode (PS + Create button).
3. Add the device via Bluetooth settings.
4. Launch your game or Steam and start gaming.

This method works for both Windows 10 and Windows 11 laptops.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a PS5 controller on PC without Steam?

Yes. Connect via USB or Bluetooth. For unsupported games, use DS4Windows to emulate an Xbox controller.

2. How do I check if my PC has Bluetooth?

Go to Settings → Bluetooth & Devices. If you see a toggle, your PC supports Bluetooth. Otherwise, use a USB Bluetooth adapter.

3. Why isn’t my PS5 controller connecting via Bluetooth?

Make sure it’s in pairing mode (hold PS + Create). Restart Bluetooth, remove old pairings, or try a different Bluetooth adapter.

4. Do I need drivers to connect a PS5 controller to PC?

No extra drivers needed. Windows 10 and 11 support it natively. DS4Windows is optional for added compatibility.

5. Can I use a PS5 controller with Epic Games or EA App?

Yes. Add the game to Steam or use DS4Windows for full controller support.

Conclusion

Whether you connect with a cable or go wireless, the PS5 DualSense works great on PC in 2025. Steam offers plug-and-play support, and tools like DS4Windows fill the gap for non-Steam games. With just a few simple steps, you can start using your PS5 controller on any Windows PC or laptop today.

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