You can connect a DUALSHOCK 4 to a Windows PC with a compatible micro-USB cable or PlayStation’s DUALSHOCK 4 USB wireless adaptor. Bluetooth pairing is another option for supported devices, but PlayStation’s PC guidance specifically lists the cable and adaptor for Windows; Bluetooth support and controller features can vary by setup and game.
Choose a connection method
| Method | What you need | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| USB cable | A compatible micro-USB cable | PlayStation lists this as a way to connect the controller to a Windows PC. Its basic PC guidance does not specify an additional software installation requirement. |
| USB wireless adaptor | DUALSHOCK 4 USB wireless adaptor | PlayStation also lists this adaptor as a Windows PC connection option. Current retail availability is not established. |
| Bluetooth | A supported Bluetooth device | Pairing instructions are available for supported devices, but PlayStation’s PC page specifically names the cable and adaptor for Windows. Do not assume Bluetooth compatibility or every controller feature will work on every PC. |
PlayStation’s connection guidance is on its gaming on PC support page. For a cable connection, use one that is compatible with the controller; the guidance does not establish that every micro-USB cable will work.
Connect the controller to a Windows PC with a cable
- Connect the compatible micro-USB cable to the DUALSHOCK 4 and the PC.
- Allow the PC and the game or application to recognize the controller.
- Open the game and check its controller settings or input options if the controller is not responding.
PlayStation’s basic PC connection instructions do not require a separate software installation. Whether a particular game accepts controller input depends on that game.
Pair the controller over Bluetooth
PlayStation provides Bluetooth pairing instructions for supported devices. Use this procedure when your device supports the controller over Bluetooth; the instructions do not guarantee Bluetooth support on every Windows PC.
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- Precision Control: The feel, shape, and sensitivity of the DualShock 4’s analog sticks and trigger buttons have been enhanced to offer players absolute control for all games on PlayStation 4.
- Sharing at your Fingertips: The addition of the Share button makes sharing your greatest gaming moments as easy as a push of a button. Upload gameplay videos and screenshots directly from your system or live-stream your gameplay, all without disturbing the game in progress.
- New ways to Play: Revolutionary features like the touch pad, integrated light bar, and built-in speaker offer exciting new ways to experience and interact with your games and its 3.5mm audio jack offers a practical personal audio solution for gamers who want to listen to their games in private.
- Charge Efficiently: The DualShock 4 Wireless Controller can easily be recharged by plugging it into your PlayStation 4 system, even when on standby, or with any standard charger with a micro-USB port.
- Make sure the controller is off. If the player indicator is lit, hold the PS button until it turns off.
- Disconnect any USB cable from the controller.
- Hold SHARE and the PS button together until the light bar flashes. This puts the controller into pairing mode.
- Turn on Bluetooth on the device and open its Bluetooth device list.
- Select the controller from the list. Pairing is complete when the light bar blinks and the player indicator lights up.
PlayStation’s controller support instructions are available on its Controllers Support page.
What works—and what may not—over Bluetooth
PlayStation says that when a DUALSHOCK 4 is connected by Bluetooth to a device other than a compatible Sony Xperia device, these features are not supported:
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- The feel, shape, and sensitivity of the dual analog sticks and trigger buttons have been improved to provide a greater sense of control, no matter what you play.Motion sensors - Rock and roll as a highly sensitive built-in accelerometer and gyroscope detect the motion, tilt and rotation of your DUALSHOCK 4 wireless controllerDualShock 4 Wireless Controller PS4 and PC compatible. Item PS5 compatible only when playing PS4 games.
- The new multi touch and clickable touch pad on the face of the DualShock 4 Wireless Controller opens up worlds of new gameplay possibilities for both newcomers and veteran gamers
- The DualShock 4 Wireless Controller features a built in speaker and stereo headset jack, putting several new audio options in the player's hands
- The Dualshock 4 wireless controller can be easily recharged by plugging it into your PlayStation 4 system, even when in rest mode, or with any standard charger using a USB cable (type A to micro B sold separately)
- Touchpad
- Light-bar color changes
- Vibration
- Motion sensor
- Audio through the controller’s headset jack
This qualification applies to the Bluetooth connection described by PlayStation; it should not be read as a limitation on every wired PC setup. Controller compatibility also varies by game and application, so a successful connection alone does not mean a particular title supports controller input.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Distinguish PC games from Remote Play
Connecting a controller to play a game running natively on the PC is different from using PS Remote Play. Remote Play streams games from a PS4 or PS5 to a supported device through the Remote Play app; it is not the same as adding controller support to a native PC game.
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- Wireless Connectivity: The DualShock 4 controller uses Bluetooth technology for wireless gameplay.
- PlayStation Compatibility: This controller is specifically designed for use with the PlayStation 4 console.
- Vibration Feedback: The controller's built-in rumble feature provides tactile feedback during gameplay.
- Adjustable Controls: The controller has customizable button layouts and analog sticks to suit your preferences.
- Long Battery Life: The controller is battery-powered and can provide up to 10 hours of gameplay on a single charge.
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- The feel, shape, and sensitivity of the dual analog sticks and trigger buttons have been improved to provide a greater sense of control, no matter what you play
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- 🎮【Function Highlights】360° Refined analog sticks, the new touch pad on the face of the game controller offer players precise control. Controller which built-in 6-axis gyro sensor has dual motor vibration, excellent dual shock effect design makes the tactile sense more sensitive. The optimized buttons and triggers, ergonomic design non-slip grips, which offer you fantastic gaming experience.
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If the controller connects but does not work in a game
- Check whether the game or application supports controller input; support varies by title.
- Confirm that the device supports the connection method you selected, particularly if you are trying Bluetooth on Windows.
- If Bluetooth is being used, account for the feature limitations PlayStation lists for non-Xperia devices.
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