- Pairing your controller to your PC or Mac via Bluetooth
- Connecting your PS4 controller to your Windows, Linux, or Mac PC via USB
- Compatibility and driver issues
Even though the keyboard-mouse combo remains a reliable option, players using a PS4 controller on their PC enjoy an even more immersive and comfortable gaming experience. Wondering how to do it? This guide details the steps to connect your PS4 controller to a PC, the connection methods (via Bluetooth and USB), compatibility issues and drivers, as well as controller setup on Steam. Follow this tutorial for an easy installation and quick configuration of your PlayStation 4 controller on Windows, macOS, or Linux.
Pairing your controller to your PC or Mac via Bluetooth
Using Bluetooth to connect your PS4 controller to your PC allows for wireless use, giving you more freedom of movement. Here's how to proceed.
- On your controller: simultaneously hold down the SHARE and PS buttons until the light bar starts flashing rapidly.
- On your PC or Mac:
- On Windows:
- go to "Settings" > "Devices" > "Bluetooth and other devices";
- click on "Add Bluetooth or other device" then select "Bluetooth";
- from the list of available devices, choose "Wireless Controller". If a PIN code is requested, enter "0000".
- On macOS:
- Go to "System Preferences" > "Bluetooth";
- make sure Bluetooth is enabled, then look for "Wireless Controller" in the list of available devices;
- click "Connect".
Note that some features of the PS4 controller may not be available in Bluetooth mode, such as the touchpad, vibration, or the dedicated headphone jack. To enjoy these options, a wired connection is sometimes required.
Connecting your PS4 controller to your Windows, Linux, or Mac PC via USB
Even simpler and faster, the USB cable connection offers increased compatibility at the expense of freedom of movement. Here's how to quickly connect a PS4 controller to your PC.
- Connect a compatible micro-USB cable between your PS4 controller and your PC's USB port.
- The controller should automatically appear in the connected devices on your Windows PC, Linux computer, or Mac.
- You can test it by opening a compatible video game or a controller test application.
Compatibility and driver issues
If your PS4 controller does not work properly on your PC, it may be due to compatibility or driver issues. Here are some solutions to fix these problems.
Using DS4Windows
DS4Windows is software that allows your PS4 controller to "pass as" an Xbox 360 controller, perfectly compatible with Windows 10. Here's how to install it:
- download DS4Windows from the official site;
- extract the downloaded file and run DS4Windows.exe;
- follow the instructions to install the necessary drivers.
Once DS4Windows is configured, connect your controller via USB or Bluetooth as explained above.
The controller will appear in the DS4Windows interface, and you can then customize its settings, including button mapping or the light bar color.
Driver updates
Make sure your Bluetooth and USB drivers are up to date on your computer. To do this, download the latest versions from your operating system's settings or the manufacturer's website.
Specific issues and troubleshooting
If you encounter more specific issues, such as frequent disconnections or the controller not being recognized, your controller may be defective: check Sony's website (or your controller manufacturer's site) for troubleshooting solutions.
Using your PS4 controller on Steam
Steam offers native support for PS4 controllers. Here's how to optimally configure your PS4 controller on Steam.
- After pairing your PS4 controller to your PC, launch Steam and go to "Settings" > "Controller" > "General Controller Settings".
- Check the "PlayStation Configuration Support" box.
- Once the configuration is complete, you can use your PS4 controller to play all compatible games on Steam.
- You can also customize button mapping and other game-specific settings in Steam's controller configuration options.
- To use your PS4 controller with games from other platforms (Ubisoft Connect, EA App, Epic Games Store), add these games to your Steam library by going to "Games" > "Add a Non-Steam Game to My Library".
Connecting a PS4 controller to a PC can greatly enhance your gaming experience. By following these simple steps, you can fully enjoy your controller on your PC. And to equip yourself with high-quality gaming accessories, feel free to explore the range of gaming controllers offered by Nacon, which guarantee you an optimal and comfortable gaming experience.
