How To Reset PS5 Controller: Hard & Soft Reset

Learning how to reset the PS5 controller is relatively straightforward. But the real problem arises when your controller’s buttons are not responding. Some potential fixes include ensuring your controller is connected, or the controller’s firmware is updated.

Key Takeaways

• PS5 DualSense controller could have glitches and won’t respond because of outdated controller firmware.
• You can do a soft reset or hard rest on your controller, depending on the intensity of glitches.
• If the resets don’t work, you should use other solutions like updating the controller’s firmware or pairing it wirelessly.

Also Read: PS5 Media Remote Not Working

When To Reset The PS5 Controller

The main reasons to reset the PS5 DualSense controller include the following:

• The controller won’t connect to the PS5 console.
• The controller’s buttons are not responding.
• The controller won’t connect to Bluetooth or any device like a PC or smartphone.
• Some weird glitches are happening while using the controller.
• The controller either understands specific or all commands but does entirely different actions.

How To Reset PS5 Controller

Resetting the DualSense controller is an easy method but sometimes gets a bit tricky. Make sure you have done the following measures before proceeding: 

• Checking your internet connection.
• Turning your controller on and off.
• Resetting the PS5 console. 
• Updating your PS5 system software. 
• Checking the cable connections.

Also Check: PS5 Disc Drive Not Working

Soft Reset

The usual glitches get resolved by a soft reset.

Note: You will need 2 controllers for this. 

1. Disconnect the controller that is not functioning correctly. 
2. Press the “PS” button from the second controller.

   

3. From the PS5 Home Screen, navigate to “Control Center.”
4. Click on the “Controller” icon located at the bottom of the screen.

   

5. Now, choose the disconnected controller and select “Turn Off.” The controller’s green light will switch off. 
6. Wait for some minutes, then plug the malfunctioning controller back in to see if the issue is fixed. 

Also Check: How To Use Two Controllers On PC?

Hard Reset

Performing a hard or factory reset on a controller is typically necessary when encountering constant issues or malfunctions that cannot be resolved through typical troubleshooting methods. 

1. Turn off your PS5 console.
2. Switch off and unplug your controller.
3. Look for a small hole beside the Sony logo at the back.

   

4. You will need a thin, pointy straight object to press the button into the hole. You can use a needle, straightened paper clip, or pen tip.
5.  Push it inside the hole, and you’ll hear a click. 
6. Hold it like that for at least five seconds until you see the controller lights flashing on and off.
7. Connect the controller via USB-C cable to the PS5 console.
8. Press the “PS” button and resync the DualSense controller.

What To Do If Resetting The Controller Isn’t Fixing Any Issues? 

If resetting the controller is not fixing the issues it is supposed to, you can try following the methods mentioned below. 

Clean The Analog Stick

It is recommended to gently clean the analog stick, the joint connected to the controller, using a soft, dry cloth such as an eyeglass cleaning cloth. I advise against using alcohol or any cleaning solution for this purpose.

Pair The Controller Using A Cable

You should consider connecting your controller using a USB-C cable.

1. Charge your controller fully.
2. Pair the PS5 DualSense controller with a USB-C cable. If the console isn’t recognizing the controller, consider using a different cable. 
3. Then press the “PS” button, and the PS5 console will detect the controller. 

Also Check: How To Connect PS5 Controller To PS4 Without PC?

Pair The Controller Wirelessly

After resetting your controller, you should pair it with PS5 wirelessly.

Note: This process requires 2 controllers. 

1. Turn on your PS5. 
2. Navigate to “Settings.”
3. Click on “Accessories” and select “General.”
4. Now, choose “Bluetooth Accessories.”
5. Hold the “Create” and “PS” buttons simultaneously to put the recently reset controller in wireless pairing mode. This will make the controller’s light start flashing blue, indicating that it’s ready to connect wirelessly.

   

6. Use the other controller to choose the new controller from the “Accessories found” menu.
7. Confirm the pairing by clicking on “Yes.”

Update PS5 DualSense Controller Firmware

An outdated firmware of the controller can lead to weird glitches. It would be best if you always kept it up-to-date. 

1. Switch on your PS5 and go to “Settings.”
2. Navigate to “Accessories”> “Controller (General),” and click on “Wireless Controller Device Software.”

   

3. If a new software build is available, it will automatically start downloading and installing on your controller. And if it’s up-to-date, you will see a “The latest version of the DualSense wireless controller device software is already installed” message displaying on your screen. 

Similar Guides: How To Check PS4 Controller Battery On PC?

Update DualSense Controller Using Your PC

Another way to fix the issue is via the Sony Firmware updater for DualSense wireless controller. 

1. First of all, download and install the application on your Windows PC.

   

2. Connect the controller to your PC via a USB-C cable and launch the application.

   

3. The app will automatically update your DualSense controller. 
4. After the update is finished, pair the controller with your PS5 console to check whether or not it is working.

Replace Batteries

It is uncommon for PS5 controllers to have dead batteries, but it is possible. So, if your controller is not resetting or responding at all, it might be a possibility that it needs new batteries. 

1. Turn off the PS5 console and ensure the controller is also turned off.
2. Locate the battery compartment on the back of the controller.
3. Open the compartment cover by sliding it in the direction indicated.
4. Take out the existing batteries and note their orientation.
5. Insert new batteries, aligning them correctly according to the polarity markings.
6. Close the battery compartment cover by sliding it back into place until it clicks.
7. Turn on the PS5 console and then press the PS button on the controller to reconnect it to the console.

Delete The Controller

You can delete the controller from PS5 settings and pair it again to fix any issues.

To do so, follow these steps: 

1. Go to “Settings” from PS5 Home Screen.
2. Select “System.”

   

3. Now, click on “Accessories.”
4. Navigate to “General”> “Bluetooth Accessories.”
5. Select the malfunctioning controller and click on “Delete.”
6. Confirm the deletion by clicking on “OK.”
7. Once the controller is deleted, wait for some minutes and pair it again.

Also Read: PS5 Controller Not Working On PC

Contact PlayStation Support

It may be helpful to contact PS5 support for assistance when the controller has glitches and can’t reset. Sony provides customer support channels where you can reach out to them for troubleshooting and guidance.

One option is to visit the official PlayStation website and navigate to their support section, where you can find articles, guides, and FAQs that address common controller-related problems.

If you cannot find a solution, you can contact Sony directly through their customer support hotline or online chat. Be prepared to provide specific details about your problem, any error messages encountered, and any troubleshooting steps you have already attempted.

The PS5 support team will do their best to assist you in resolving the controller issues and ensuring a smooth gaming experience.

Also, if your console and controller are under warranty, they will provide you with a repair or new device. So, don’t hesitate to contact them via the website or call them at 800-883-6817 from Monday to Friday, 10:00 am to 6:00 pm EST.

Final Words

In conclusion, knowing how to reset your PS5 controller can help resolve various issues that may arise during your gaming sessions. Just implement the methods listed above, and your controller will work smoothly.