Connecting the Sony PlayStation 5 controller to a PC is a very easy operation that opens up new possibilities for us to play and have fun. In this post we are going to explain how to use the PS5 controller in Windows (we are referring, of course, to the popular DualSense controller) and get the most out of it.
But before getting into the matter, it is fair to launch a advertisements: although linking the controller with the computer is possible, it must be taken into account that Not all of its functions will be available. Some of them are strictly reserved for the PS5. For example, haptic feedback, which no game currently available for computer will be able to reproduce. Although this could also change in the future.
In fact, Sony is launching more and more games for PC and has made great progress in the compatibility of its devices. The list of games that we can enjoy with the DualSense controller on a Windows PC is getting longer and longer. Among the most notable titles, we could mention Pacific Drive, Helldivers 2, Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, God of War, Far Cry 6 o Avatars: Frontiers of Pandora, among many others.
It is true that one of the main reasons for playing on PC is to be able to use the keyboard and mouse more easily. However, there are certain genres where it is simply better to use the controller. It is not necessary to buy a gamepad new for that. If we have the PS5 controller at home, why not take advantage of its advantages?
The problem we must solve is compatibility: Windows is the operating system used on most gaming computers, but the Microsoft console is the Xbox. In other words: the SONY PlayStation 5 controllers are not the standard for a PC.
Connect the PS5 controller to the computer
Connecting a PS5 DualSense controller to a Windows PC is very simple. It can be done both via cable and wirelessly, as long as the computer has a Bluetooth receiver.
In the wired connection, this must have a USB-C on one end (the one that connects to the controller) and a USB-A or USB-C on the other, depending on the brand and model of the computer. Important: that type of cable is not the one that comes in the DualSense controller box when we bought it. Once the connection is made, the PC will automatically detect the controller as a gamepad generic, ready to use.
La wireless connection It's equally easy. First you have to go to the controller and hold down the center button and the Create button at the same time for about three seconds, until the light bar starts flashing. Then you have to go to the Bluetooth settings on your PC and there select the driver that will be displayed among the detected devices. Sometimes a pairing code is requested, which is four zeros (0000).
Use the PS5 controller on Steam
The best way to enjoy PC games with the PlayStation 5 controller is through the popular platform Steam, which is fully compatible with it. This is what we should do:
- First we open Steam on the PC.
- In the application, we go to Option menu located in the upper left corner of the screen.
- select "Parameters".
- Then we will "Controller" and from there to «General controller settings».
- Lastly, We connect the DualSense controller by cable or wirelessly, as we explained in the previous section.
Before starting to play we will still have the opportunity to make some adjustments such as configuring the buttons to our liking and customizing other features.
Is it worth using the PS5 controller on Windows?
We have already seen that using the PS5 controller on a Windows PC is a good idea. And also, the operation to connect it is quite simple. Despite that, you have to put all aspects on the balance to know to what extent it is worth it. That is to say, Know its advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages
- It is very comfortable to hold and handle, with a very fluid response.
- Offer optimal performance on the Steam platform (although always below what is offered on the Sony console, of course).
- It's a good solution for those who have their PC connected to a large screen TV, since it offers a higher level of comfort than what we would achieve playing on a desktop computer, with the keyboard and mouse.
- The controller works both wired and wireless.
Drawbacks
- El cable that comes in the box of the DualSense controller is Type C on both ends, so does not work for connection. We will have to use a USB-C male to USB-A male data cable to connect.
- The adaptive and/or haptic feedback triggers do not work in most PC games.
- It is not possible to listen to game audio through headphones connected to the controller, as is done on the PS5.