Imagine the scene: you’re in the middle of a God of War: Ragnarök session, just about to defeat a particularly tough boss, when suddenly your PS5 controller dies. A message appears on the screen: “Controller update required”… Frustrating, isn’t it? PS5 controller updates are essential to maintain optimal performance and enjoy the latest features. But how long will you have to wait before returning to your epic quest? Whether you’re a player eager to resume your game, or a curious gamer wanting to know the duration of a DualSense update, this article sums up what you need to know about updating your PS5 controller.
PS5 Controller Update: How Long Does It Really Take?
Average Duration of PS5 Controller Updates
This can vary, but generally, the process is relatively quick: the average update time for a PS5 controller usually ranges from 5 to 15 minutes.
It’s important to note that this time includes both the firmware download and its installation on your DualSense.
However, the duration can vary depending on several factors.
Factors Affecting Update Time
Several elements can influence the duration of your DualSense wireless controller update, particularly:
- Your internet connection speed (a faster connection will reduce the software download time);
- The size of the update (major updates may take longer than minor fixes).
How to Speed Up the Update Process for Your PS5 Controller
In a hurry to get back to your game? Here are a few tips to optimize the update time for your PS5 controller.
- Ensure a good internet connection: if possible, use an Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi to download patches faster.
- Free up console resources: close any games or applications running in the background on your console.
- Charge your DualSense battery: make sure your controller is sufficiently charged before starting the update installation.
PS5 Controller Update Duration: Comparison with Other Consoles
Compared to other consoles, the PS5 controller update duration is about average. Updates for Xbox Series X/S controllers are similarly timed, generally taking between 5 and 15 minutes. Updates for Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons are shorter, averaging around 5 minutes.
Why Is Updating My PS5 Controller Necessary?
Updating your DualSense controller is crucial for several reasons.
- Bug fixes: updates resolve issues and improve stability.
- New features: Sony regularly adds new features, such as improvements to haptic feedback or adaptive triggers.
- Compatibility: some games may require the latest firmware version to function properly with your DualSense.
- Security: updates can include important security fixes, ensuring the integrity of your console and accessories.
Step-by-Step Guide to Update Your PS5 Controller
Here’s a reminder of how to proceed to update your PS5 controller:
- Turn on your PS5 console.
- Make sure your DualSense controller is connected to the console, either wirelessly or via a USB-C cable.
- Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers.
- Select “Wireless Controller Software Update.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to start the update.
- Wait until the update is complete. Do not disconnect the controller during the process if it’s connected by cable.
It’s worth noting that, thanks to recent PS5 system updates, you no longer even need to connect your controller with a cable to perform the update. You can now update your DualSense wirelessly, making the process even more convenient.
Just got a new DualSense? Check out our article: How to Connect a New PS5 Controller
Common Issues After a PS5 Controller Update and Solutions
Sometimes, problems can arise after an update. Here are some common situations — and their solutions.
The PS5 Controller Won’t Connect After the Update
If your controller no longer connects after the update, try the following solutions:
- Reset the PS5 controller by pressing the small button on the back for 5 seconds;
- Reconnect the controller to the console using a USB-C cable.
Poor Button Responsiveness After Update: What to Do?
If you notice poor button responsiveness after the update, try these tips:
- Ensure that the update is fully completed;
- Restart your PS5 console;
- Test the controller on different games to see if the issue is widespread.
- If the issue persists, consider resetting or replacing the controller.
The Update is Stuck: How to Resolve This Issue?
If the update seems stuck, wait a few minutes as some updates may take longer than expected. If nothing happens after about 15 to 20 minutes, restart your PS5 console. Try the update again in safe mode if the issue persists. As a last resort, contact Sony PlayStation support for assistance.
Updating your PS5 controller is an important step to ensure an optimal gaming experience. Although the update time is generally short, it can vary due to various factors. By following the tips provided in this article, you can optimize the process and quickly resolve potential issues.
Looking to take your PS5 gaming experience even further? Alternatives to the DualSense, like the Nacon PS5 controller or the Nacon Controller Revolution can offer additional features and an enhanced gaming experience.
