How to connect a PS4 controller
The PS4 has come down in price since the launch of the PS5, so there’s a good chance you picked one up recently to play through the fantastic library of games.
But before you start playing, you first need to know how to connect your DualShock controller.
Luckily, connecting a DualShock controller to a PS4 console is very easy, and we’re here to walk you through the process.
This guide can also be used to add additional controllers, so it’s useful for both local multiplayer sessions and those who just bought a new PS4 console.
Hardware used
- PS4 console
- PS4 DualShock controller
- USB-A to microUSB cable
The short version
- Turn on the PS4
- Connect the PS4 controller to the console with the charging cable
- Press the PlayStation button on the controller
- Unplug the cable and start playing
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Step
1 - Turn on the PS4
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Step
2Connect the PS4 controller to the console with the charging cable
For this next step you will need a USB-A to microUSB cable. This should be bundled with the console, but is easy to find online if you’ve misplaced it.
Plug the rectangular USB-A end into the front port of the PS4, then plug the other end into the PS4 controller. Once connected, the PS4 will begin charging the controller.
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Step
3Press the PlayStation button on the controller
Once you press the PlayStation button on the controller, it should connect to your PS4 console.
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Step
4Dattach Cable and start playing
You can then disconnect the cable and continue with a wireless connection as long as your controller has enough charge. Now the PS4 controller is paired with the console, you can also turn on the PS4 by simply tapping the pad’s PlayStation button.
The PS4 console must be powered off to connect to your controller. On the front of the console, you’ll find a small power button just above the hard drive eject button. push it
frequently asked Questions
If the controller won’t connect to your console, it may need to be charged. If that’s not the problem, try a hard pause on the console by holding the power button until you hear a second beep.
If you don’t have a cable to pair a second controller with your PS4, go (with another controller) to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices. Then press and hold both the Share and PlayStation buttons on your unpaired controller. Your controller should then enter pairing mode and appear as an available Bluetooth device on your PS4 console. Click on that and everything should be set up.
If this is the very first controller you’re going to connect to the PS4, you’ll need a cable.