Connection methods

Ways you can connect your controller to the PC

USB

  • Should be as simple as just plugging your controller with a good, working USB cable
  • Windows should play a “device has been detected” sound when the controller is plugged in
  • Keep in mind that some USB cables can only be used for charging. If the cable does not support data transfer then it won’t be of use

Bluetooth

  • Make sure your BT adapter has the minimum specs for your controller
  • The controller needs to be set into pairing mode to be added as a Bluetooth device through Windows’ settings. If a pin is asked try 0000
  • If a controller has already been previously paired and you can’t reconnect, try removing the device from Windows’ Bluetooth devices list and repairing them

Pairing

Setting the controller in pairing mode

To pair the controller, you first have to set it in pairing mode.

DualShock 4/DualSense

Hold PS and Share buttons at the same time until the lightbar starts flashing in a heartbeat pattern.

Joy-Con/Switch Pro Controller

Hold down the Sync button until the controller LEDs enter a back n’ forth pattern.

Replicas

Probably the same as for the original controllers. Refer to specific device’s manual.

Pairing in Windows

image of windows bluetooth pairing ui

Sony DS4 USB Wireless Adapter

The official adapter from Sony supports only 1 controller, but allows the headphone jack to be used wireless for both audio and mic.

To pair a DualShock 4 to it, both must be set to pairing mode. For the Wireless Adapter, its main body must be slightly pressed towards the USB port (until a “click” is felt) then hold it down in this position for 3 seconds, with its LED flashing in a heartbeat pattern indicating that it’s in pairing mode. Set then DualShock 4 into pairing mode (check the previous section) and it it should connect to the adapter.

Last modified September 10, 2024: Add more site descriptions (4659147)