Setting up Your DualSense Controller on PC

This article will guide you through setting up your PlayStation 5 DualSense controller on your PC using both wired and wireless connections.

Wired Connection Setup

For the most stable and responsive experience, it’s strongly recommended to use a wired connection for your DualSense controller on PC. Here’s how:

1. Connect Your Controller

You’ll need a USB-C to USB-C or USB-C to USB-A cable to connect your DualSense controller to your PC. Simply plug the cable into your controller and your PC. The controller will automatically install drivers and appear as a wireless device, even though it’s currently connected via a wire.

2. Install Steam and Enable Beta Participation

You’ll need Steam installed on your PC to use the DualSense controller for most games. Additionally, you’ll need to enable beta participation in Steam to access the beta support for the DualSense controller.

1. Open Steam and go to Settings.
2. Select “Account” and then “Beta Participation.”
3. Change the “Steam Beta Update” option from “None – Opt Out” to “Steam Beta Update” and click “OK.”

Steam will restart, and you’ll now be a beta participant, granting you access to the DualSense controller beta support.

3. Enable PlayStation Configuration Support in Big Picture Mode

Once you’ve enabled beta participation in Steam, enter Big Picture mode. The controller should be automatically detected in Big Picture mode.

1. Go to Settings in Big Picture Mode.
2. Navigate to Controller Settings.
3. Make sure “PlayStation Configuration Support” is checked.
4. Select your DualSense controller from the “PlayStation 5 Controller” option and change preferences like rumble intensity, color, and name, if desired.

Now, you can navigate around Big Picture mode using your DualSense controller. You can also use the “Controller Configuration” option to customize your controller settings for specific games.

Wireless Connection Setup

While it’s currently recommended to use a wired connection due to driver limitations and inconsistent Bluetooth connection, you can still try setting up your DualSense controller wirelessly through Bluetooth. However, be warned that this is not fully supported and may not provide the same level of stability as a wired connection.

For updating information on wireless setup, refer to the latest resources on this topic.

Using Your DualSense Controller Outside of Steam

If you want to use your DualSense controller outside of Steam, you’ll need a third-party tool called DS4Windows. This tool allows you to emulate your DualSense controller as an Xbox 360 controller, making it compatible with other games and platforms.

1. Download and Install DS4Windows

Download the DS4Windows program from the official website and install it on your PC. It will automatically recognize your DualSense controller when plugged in.

2. Configure DS4Windows

1. Launch DS4Windows and make sure “Start” is selected instead of “Stop.”
2. Go to Settings and then Control Driver Setup.
3. Ensure that “Install the ViGEmBus Driver” is selected. This driver is crucial for using your DualSense controller outside of Steam.

3. Test Your Controller

You can check your controller’s status in DS4Windows by going to the “Controller Readings” tab. You should see the controller’s input being registered. Now you can test your controller with other games or platforms like Xbox Game Pass, and it should be recognized as an Xbox 360 controller.

DualSense Controller’s Advantages

The DualSense controller is a fantastic controller with numerous appealing features, including:

• Haptic feedback: Provides more subtle and realistic vibrations compared to traditional rumble motors.
• Adaptive triggers: Allow games to create tension and resistance in the trigger buttons for more immersive gameplay.
• Built-in microphone: Enables seamless voice communication.
• Ergonomic design: Offers a comfortable and secure grip.

Conclusion

The DualSense controller is a fantastic addition to your PC setup, offering a unique and immersive gaming experience. Despite the lack of official drivers for complete functionality, you can still enjoy the benefits of the DualSense controller through workarounds like Steam beta support and DS4Windows. As support continues to develop, using the DualSense on PC will become even easier and more versatile.