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PS5 Controller Not Connecting – Our 4 Easy Fixes

Learn how to fix the issue by resetting the controller, updating the firmware, and more.

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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.

Key Takeaways
  • The error can usually happen due to firmware issues, hardware issues, or physical obstacles blocking the signals.
  • The prevalence of the PS5 controller not connecting errors varies from user to user.
  • You can fix the error by updating firmware, forgetting then reconnecting the device and connecting to ethernet.
  • The issue of the PS5 controller not connecting may not occur that often but it is an annoying one and might delay your gaming session.

Method Difficulty Rating

Reset Controller
Rated: 2/10

Update Firmware
Rated: 6/10

Forgetting Device
Rated: 6/10

 Switch To Ethernet
Rated: 7/10

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.
    Hole At The Back
    Hole At the Back – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  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.

Note: Your controller may not be connecting due to interference by nearby Bluetooth devices try turning them off.


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Sometimes outdated software results in connectivity issues and many others.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.
    Accessories
    Controller Accessories – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  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.
    Wireless Controller Device Software
    Wireless Controller Device Software – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  3. Verify the connection: Disconnect the USB-C cable > Try reconnecting the controller to the console wirelessly.

Note: One of the reasons your controller may not connect is weak or unstable Bluetooth connectivity. Try moving closer to the console.


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.”
    Bluetooth Accessories
    Bluetooth Accessories – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  2. Delete Device: Find your DualSense Controller > select “Delete.”
    Delete Device
    Delete Device – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  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.”
    Network
    Network – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  2. Select LAN Cable: Choose “Set Up Internet Connection” > “Use a LAN Cable.”
    Set Up Internet Conncetion
    Set Up Internet Connection – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
    Use a LAN cable
    Use a LAN cable – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
  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.

WARNING: If the issue persists, it could indicate a hardware problem, and attempting to force a connection may exacerbate the situation; seek professional assistance.


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. 

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


FAQs

Is a wired connection an effective solution?

Yes, using a USB cable for a wired connection can help troubleshoot and determine if the issue is related to wireless connectivity.

What if the problem persists after troubleshooting?

If issues persist, it may indicate a potential hardware problem, and users should contact official PlayStation support for further assistance.

Will attempting unofficial fixes void my warranty?

Yes, attempting unofficial fixes may void warranties or exacerbate the issue; it’s recommended to rely on official support channels for guidance.


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