4 Steps to Connect Your PS5 Controller Without a Cable

PS5 controller without cable

Connecting your PS5 controller wirelessly is a breeze, offering you the freedom to game without the hassle of tangled wires. However, certain situations may call for a wired connection, such as when your controller’s battery is depleted or if you prefer the stability and reduced latency it provides. Fortunately, connecting your PS5 controller without a cable is a straightforward process that can be accomplished in just a few simple steps.

To begin, you’ll need a USB Type-C cable that is compatible with your PS5 controller. Once you have the cable, plug one end into the USB-C port on the back of the controller and the other end into a USB port on your PS5 console. The controller will automatically pair with the console and begin charging. If the controller does not connect automatically, you may need to manually pair it by pressing the PlayStation button on the controller and the PS button on the console simultaneously.

Once your PS5 controller is connected via USB, you can enjoy wired gameplay with all the benefits it offers. The wired connection provides a more stable and responsive gaming experience, making it ideal for competitive online matches or fast-paced action games. Additionally, the wired connection continuously charges the controller, ensuring that you can play for extended periods without interruptions due to a depleted battery. When you’re finished playing, simply unplug the USB cable from the controller and store it for future use.

Connect via Bluetooth

To connect your PS5 controller to your console wirelessly via Bluetooth, follow these steps:

1. Power on your devices

Make sure both your PS5 console and controller are powered on. If your controller is not already paired with the console, the light bar on the touchpad will blink white.

2. Check Bluetooth is enabled

On your PS5 console, go to Settings > Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories. Ensure that the Bluetooth switch is turned on. If it’s not, toggle it to the on position.

3. Initiate pairing

Locate the tiny reset button on the back of your controller next to the L2 trigger. Use a small tool like a paperclip to press and hold the button for a few seconds until the light bar starts blinking rapidly.

4. Select the controller

On the PS5 console, go back to the Bluetooth Accessories screen. The controller will appear as “Wireless Controller.” Select it from the list.

5. Verify pairing

Once the pairing is complete, the light bar on the controller will turn solid white. You can now use the controller wirelessly with your PS5 console.

Troubleshooting tips

* If the controller does not pair, try restarting the console and the controller.
* If the light bar on the controller is blinking red, it means the battery is low. Charge the controller and try again.
* Ensure that there are no other Bluetooth devices nearby that could interfere with the connection.

Use a USB Charging Cable

This method uses a standard USB-C cable, the same type used to charge the PS5 controller. To connect your controller wirelessly using this method, follow these steps:

Connecting with a USB Cable

To connect your PS5 controller wirelessly using a USB-C cable, follow these steps:

Power on the PS5 console.
Connect the USB-C cable to the controller and the USB port on the front of the console.
Press the PS button on the controller. The controller will be paired with the console and the light bar will turn blue.
Once the controller is paired, you can unplug the USB-C cable and use the controller wirelessly.

Note: If you are using a USB-C cable that is not the original cable that came with the controller, make sure that it is a high-quality cable that supports data transfer. Some cables only support charging and will not be able to connect the controller wirelessly.

Update Controller Firmware

Updating the firmware on your PS5 controller ensures that it has the latest features and fixes for any bugs.
To update the controller’s firmware, you’ll need to connect it to your PS5 console using a USB cable.
Once the controller is connected, go to the “Settings” menu on your PS5 and select “Accessories > Controllers.”
From there, select the “Controller Firmware” option and follow the on-screen prompts to update the firmware.
Here are the detailed steps for updating the controller firmware:

Step 1: Connect the controller to the PS5 with a USB cable.

Step 2: Go to the “Settings” menu on your PS5.

Step 3: Select “Accessories > Controllers.”

Step 4: Select the “Controller Firmware” option.

Step 5: Follow the on-screen prompts to update the firmware.

The table below summarizes the steps for updating the controller firmware:

Step	Action
1	Connect the controller to the PS5 with a USB cable.
2	Go to the “Settings” menu on your PS5.
3	Select “Accessories > Controllers.”
4	Select the “Controller Firmware” option.
5	Follow the on-screen prompts to update the firmware.

Reset Controller to Default Settings

If you encounter persistent connectivity issues or malfunctioning buttons, resetting the controller to its default settings can resolve the problem. Follow these steps to reset your PS5 controller:

1. Locate the Reset Button

On the back of the DualSense controller, you’ll find a small, recessed button near the L2 trigger. This is the reset button.

2. Use a Small Object

You’ll need a small, pointed object, such as a paperclip or toothpick, to press the reset button. Insert the object into the hole and apply gentle pressure.

3. Hold the Button

Hold the reset button down for about 5-7 seconds. You should feel a slight click when the button is pressed fully.

4. Verify Reset

After releasing the reset button, the controller will turn off. Press the PS button to power it back on. If the controller has been successfully reset, it will begin in pairing mode, indicated by a blinking light near the PS button. You can then connect it to your PS5 console or other Bluetooth-enabled device.

Connecting Your PS5 Controller Without a Cable

To connect your PS5 controller wirelessly, follow these steps:

Turn on your PS5.
Hold down the PlayStation button on the controller until it starts flashing.
Go to Settings > Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories.
Select the controller from the list of available devices.
Once the controller is connected, it will stop flashing and a solid white light will appear.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you’re having trouble connecting your PS5 controller without a cable, try the following troubleshooting tips:

Make sure that the controller is charged.

If the controller is not charged, it will not be able to connect wirelessly. Connect the controller to the PS5 using the USB cable that came with it and wait for it to fully charge.

Restart your PS5.

Restarting your PS5 can help to resolve any software issues that may be preventing the controller from connecting. To restart your PS5, press and hold the power button on the front of the console for 10 seconds until it turns off. Then, press the power button again to turn it back on.

Update the controller firmware.

The controller firmware may need to be updated in order to connect wirelessly. To update the controller firmware, connect the controller to the PS5 using the USB cable that came with it. Then, go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers and select the controller that you want to update. Click on the “Update Firmware” button and follow the on-screen instructions.

Reset the controller.

Resetting the controller will restore it to its factory settings. To reset the controller, use a small paperclip or other pointed object to press and hold the reset button on the back of the controller for 5 seconds. The reset button is located next to the L2 button.

If you are still having trouble connecting your PS5 controller without a cable, contact PlayStation Support for assistance.

Alternate Connection Methods

### Bluetooth Connection

The PS5 controller can also be connected via Bluetooth, allowing you to use it wirelessly with your PC, smartphone, or tablet. Here’s how:

1. Press and hold the PlayStation button and Share button on the controller simultaneously until the light bar flashes.
2. On your device, go to the Bluetooth settings and select “Pair New Device.”
3. Choose “Wireless Controller” from the list of available devices.

### Remote Play Using Wi-Fi

If you have a stable Wi-Fi connection, you can use Remote Play to connect your PS5 controller to your PC or Mac wirelessly. Here’s how:

1. On your PS5, enable Remote Play by going to “Settings” > “System” > “Remote Play.”
2. On your PC or Mac, download the PlayStation Remote Play app from the respective app stores.
3. Connect your PS5 controller to your computer using a USB cable.
4. Launch the PlayStation Remote Play app and select your PS5 console from the list.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.

### Using a PS5 Remote Control

If you prefer a more traditional controller experience, you can use the PS5 Remote Control instead of the DualSense wireless controller. Here’s how:

1. Connect the PS5 Remote Control to your PS5 console using the included USB cable.
2. Press the PlayStation button on the Remote Control to turn it on.
3. Your PS5 Remote Control is now connected and ready to use.

Platform	Connection Method
PC	USB, Bluetooth, Remote Play
Mac	USB, Remote Play
Smartphone	Bluetooth
Tablet	Bluetooth

Connecting to a PC

To connect your PS5 controller to a PC wirelessly, you’ll need to use Bluetooth. Here’s how to do it:

Turn on Bluetooth on your PC. This process may vary depending on your PC’s operating system. For Windows 10, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices and turn on the Bluetooth toggle. For macOS, go to the Apple menu and select System Preferences > Bluetooth and turn on Bluetooth.
Hold down the PS and Share buttons on your PS5 controller. The controller will enter pairing mode and the light bar will start flashing.
On your PC, go to the Bluetooth settings and look for the PS5 controller. It should appear as "Wireless Controller."
Select the PS5 controller and click "Connect." The controller will pair with your PC and the light bar will turn solid blue.
Once the controller is paired, you can use it to play games or navigate the PC interface. The controller will be recognized as a standard gamepad and will work with most games and software.
To turn off the controller, hold down the PS button for a few seconds. The light bar will turn off and the controller will enter standby mode.
To reconnect the controller to your PC, simply press the PS button again. The controller will automatically reconnect if it’s within range and has been recently paired.

Platform

Steps

Windows 10

Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
Turn on the Bluetooth toggle.
Hold down the PS and Share buttons on your PS5 controller.
Select the PS5 controller from the list of available devices and click “Connect.”

macOS

Go to the Apple menu and select System Preferences > Bluetooth.
Turn on Bluetooth.
Hold down the PS and Share buttons on your PS5 controller.

Select the PS5 controller from the list of available devices and click “Connect.”

Extending Wireless Range

While the PS5 controller has a respectable wireless range, there are times when you may need to extend it. Here are some tips to help you boost the signal and enjoy a lag-free gaming experience:

1. Move closer to the console: The closer you are to the console, the stronger the signal will be. If possible, try to position yourself within 10-15 feet of the PS5.

2. Reduce interference: Wireless signals can be interfered with by other electronic devices, such as microwaves, cordless phones, and Wi-Fi routers. Try to keep your PS5 and controller away from these potential sources of interference.

3. Use a USB cable: If you’re having trouble connecting wirelessly, you can always resort to using a USB cable. This is a direct connection that will provide the best possible performance.

4. Use a Wi-Fi extender: A Wi-Fi extender can help to boost the signal of your wireless network, which can in turn improve the range of your PS5 controller. Simply plug the extender into an outlet and connect it to your Wi-Fi network.

5. Use a Bluetooth adapter: If your PC doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth, you can use a Bluetooth adapter to connect your PS5 controller. This is a small device that plugs into a USB port and allows your PC to communicate with Bluetooth devices.

6. Update your controller firmware: Sony occasionally releases firmware updates for the PS5 controller. These updates can include improvements to the wireless connection, so it’s worth checking for updates regularly.

7. Use a wired connection: If you’re having trouble connecting wirelessly, you can always resort to using a wired connection. This is a direct connection that will provide the best possible performance.

8. Use a PS5 controller extender: A PS5 controller extender can help to physically extend the range of your controller. These devices typically connect to the back of your controller and provide an additional USB port that you can use to connect a USB cable. This can be a convenient way to extend the range of your controller without having to worry about interference or signal drops.

Controller Extender	Features
Nyko Charge Base Micro USB	Extends range up to 10 feet
Collective Minds Strikepack F.P.S. Dominator	Extends range up to 20 feet
Venom Shadow Claw	Extends range up to 25 feet

Wireless Interference Prevention

To avoid wireless interference while using your PS5 controller wirelessly, follow these tips:

1. Check for Obstacles

Remove any physical barriers or obstructions between the controller and the console, as they can block the wireless signal.

2. Keep Away from Wi-Fi Routers

Avoid placing the console or controller near a Wi-Fi router or other devices that emit strong wireless signals, as this can interfere with the controller’s connection.

3. Reduce Bluetooth Devices

Minimize the number of Bluetooth devices connected to the console, as they can compete for bandwidth and cause interference.

4. Use a Separate Wireless Channel

If possible, set your console to use a different wireless channel than your other Wi-Fi devices to reduce signal overlap.

5. Use a Direct Connection

Instead of relying on Bluetooth, connect your controller directly to the console via a USB cable. This provides a stable and interference-free connection.

6. Avoid Metal Objects

Keep the controller away from metal objects, as they can reflect the wireless signal and cause interference.

7. Update Firmware

Ensure that both the console and controller have the latest firmware updates installed, as bug fixes can improve wireless connectivity.

8. Reset the Connection

If you’re experiencing connection issues, reset the connection between the controller and the console by pressing the “PS” button and selecting “Settings” > “System” > “Connections” > “Wireless Controllers” > “Reset Wireless Controller”.

9. Troubleshooting Common Interference Sources

Source	Tips
Wi-Fi Routers	Move the router away from the console or use a different wireless channel.
Bluetooth Devices	Disconnect unnecessary devices or pair them with your phone instead.
Metal Objects	Place the controller on a non-metallic surface or use a protective case.
Other Wireless Devices	Check for any other devices that may interfere with the signal, such as baby monitors or smart home hubs.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

If you’re having trouble connecting your PS5 controller without a cable, try these troubleshooting steps:

Make sure that the controller is charged.
Make sure that the controller is within range of the PS5 console.
Make sure that there are no other Bluetooth devices interfering with the connection.
Try restarting the PS5 console.
Try resetting the controller by holding down the PS button and the Share button for 5 seconds.
If you’re still having trouble, try contacting PlayStation support.

Maintaining a Strong Connection

Here are some tips for maintaining a strong connection between your PS5 controller and console:

Keep the controller close to the console.
Avoid using the controller in areas with a lot of Bluetooth interference.
Charge the controller regularly.
If you’re experiencing lag, try restarting the controller or console.
If you’re still having trouble, try contacting PlayStation support.
Make sure your controller is connected via USB first.
Navigate to Settings > Accessories > Controllers from the home screen.
Select General > Bluetooth Communication, and then turn on the feature.
Your controller should now be able to connect to the PS5 wirelessly.
If you’re having trouble connecting, try restarting your PS5 or controller.

How to Connect a PS5 Controller Without a Cable

To connect your PS5 controller without a cable, you’ll need a DualSense wireless controller and a compatible Bluetooth adapter. Here are the steps:

1. Ensure that your PS5 controller is turned off.
2. Connect the Bluetooth adapter to your device (PC, laptop, etc.).
3. Enter the Bluetooth pairing mode on your controller by holding down the PS button and the Share button simultaneously. The light on the controller will start blinking.
4. On your device, open the Bluetooth settings and search for new devices.
5. Select the PS5 controller from the list of available devices and click “Pair.”
6. Once paired, the light on the controller will stop blinking and remain solid.

Note: If you want to connect the controller to a PS5 console without a cable, you can use the Bluetooth pairing feature built into the console. Simply enable Bluetooth in the console settings and follow the same pairing steps as mentioned above.