How to Connect PS4 Controller to PC via Bluetooth on Windows 11

By / September 12, 2025

Gaming on a PC can be an incredible experience, especially when you use a controller like the PS4 DualShock 4. But if you’re new to connecting controllers via Bluetooth on Windows 11, it can feel like trying to solve a Rubik’s cube blindfolded. Don’t worry—we’ve got your back. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process step by step, plus share tips, tricks, and troubleshooting advice to make your gaming experience seamless.

Why Connect Your PS4 Controller to a PC?

If you’re still wondering why you’d even bother connecting your PS4 controller to a Windows 11 PC, here are a few reasons:

  • Comfortable gaming: Sometimes a mouse and keyboard just don’t cut it, especially for racing games or platformers.

  • Wireless convenience: Bluetooth eliminates the need for messy wires.

  • Universal compatibility: Many PC games support controllers out of the box.

Connecting via Bluetooth is cleaner and gives you freedom to move, unlike a wired setup.

Requirements Before You Start

Before diving in, make sure you have everything ready:

  • A PS4 DualShock 4 controller.

  • A Windows 11 PC with Bluetooth capability.

  • Fully charged controller battery.

  • Optional: DS4Windows software for games that don’t natively support PS4 controllers.

Having all these at hand makes the process smoother and prevents unnecessary frustration.

Step 1: Check if Your PC Has Bluetooth

Not all PCs come with Bluetooth, especially desktops. Here’s how to check:

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Navigate to Devices → Bluetooth & other devices.

  3. If you see a toggle for Bluetooth, you’re good to go.

If you don’t see Bluetooth, you might need a USB Bluetooth dongle.

Step 2: Turn On Your PS4 Controller

To pair via Bluetooth, the controller needs to be in pairing mode. Follow these steps:

  1. Press and hold PS button + Share button simultaneously.

  2. Hold them until the light bar starts flashing rapidly.

  3. Your controller is now in pairing mode and ready to connect.

Pro tip: If the controller doesn’t enter pairing mode, fully charge it and try again.

Step 3: Pair the Controller with Windows 11

Now comes the magic—connecting the controller to your PC.

  1. Go to Settings → Devices → Bluetooth & other devices.

  2. Click Add Bluetooth or other device.

  3. Select Bluetooth.

  4. Look for Wireless Controller in the list.

  5. Click Pair.

  6. Wait until Windows confirms that the device is connected.

Voilà! Your PS4 controller is now connected via Bluetooth.

Step 4: Test the Controller

Before jumping into a game, make sure everything is working:

  1. Press the PS button and check if it vibrates.

  2. Open Game Controllers settings:

    • Press Windows + R, type joy.cpl, and hit Enter.

    • Select your controller and click Properties.

  3. Test all buttons to confirm functionality.

If it responds correctly, you’re ready to game!

Step 5: Configure for Steam Games

Steam makes PS4 controller usage super easy:

  1. Open Steam → Settings → Controller → General Controller Settings.

  2. Check PlayStation Configuration Support.

  3. Your PS4 controller will now work seamlessly in Steam games.

Steam even allows you to customize buttons and sensitivity to match your playstyle.

Step 6: Use DS4Windows for Non-Steam Games

Not all games detect PS4 controllers by default. Here’s where DS4Windows comes in handy:

  1. Download DS4Windows from the official website.

  2. Install and run the program.

  3. DS4Windows maps the PS4 controller as an Xbox controller, which is widely supported.

  4. Customize button layouts, triggers, and vibration settings.

This ensures a smooth experience across almost all PC games.

Step 7: Troubleshooting Connection Issues

Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Here’s how to fix common issues:

Controller Not Detected

  • Ensure it’s in pairing mode.

  • Remove previous pairings under Bluetooth settings.

  • Restart your PC and try again.

Controller Disconnects Randomly

  • Update your Bluetooth drivers.

  • Reduce interference by keeping other wireless devices away.

Buttons Not Working

  • Try DS4Windows for games that don’t natively support PS4 controllers.

  • Re-pair the controller after restarting your PC.

Step 8: Optimize Bluetooth Settings for Gaming

Windows 11 has a few hidden features that can enhance your gaming experience:

  • Go to Device Manager → Bluetooth → Your Adapter → Properties → Power Management.

  • Uncheck Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.

This prevents the controller from disconnecting mid-game.

Step 9: Update Controller Firmware

Occasionally, Sony releases firmware updates to improve stability. You can update your controller via a PS4 console:

  1. Connect your controller to a PS4 using a USB cable.

  2. Navigate to Settings → Devices → Controllers → Update Firmware.

Keeping the firmware updated ensures optimal performance on PC too.

Step 10: Customize the Light Bar

You can make your PS4 controller more personal and fun:

  • Use DS4Windows to change the light bar color.

  • Some games allow in-game light bar customization.

This isn’t just aesthetic—it also helps identify which controller is connected if multiple are in use.

Step 11: Use Wired Mode If Needed

Bluetooth is great, but sometimes wired connections are more stable:

  1. Plug your controller into the PC using a micro-USB or USB-C cable.

  2. Windows 11 should automatically detect it.

  3. Use DS4Windows if the game doesn’t natively support PS4 controllers.

Wired mode reduces input lag, which is crucial for competitive games.

Step 12: Pair Multiple Controllers

Want to game with friends? Pairing multiple controllers is simple:

  • Repeat the Bluetooth pairing process for each controller.

  • Assign different colors in DS4Windows to avoid confusion.

  • Steam supports multiple controllers and allows independent customization.

Step 13: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for:

  • Not fully charging the controller before pairing.

  • Pairing via USB first, which sometimes prevents Bluetooth recognition.

  • Skipping DS4Windows for non-Steam games, leading to compatibility issues.

Avoiding these mistakes saves you from hours of frustration.

Step 14: Enhancing Your Gaming Setup

Once connected, consider enhancing your setup:

  • Invest in a Bluetooth dongle with low latency.

  • Keep a charging dock nearby to avoid dead batteries mid-game.

  • Use controller grips for extended gaming sessions.

Small adjustments can drastically improve your comfort and performance.

Step 15: Benefits of Using a PS4 Controller on PC

By now, it’s clear that using a PS4 controller on Windows 11 isn’t just about convenience:

  • Ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue.

  • Vibration feedback adds immersion.

  • Wireless freedom makes movement easier during gaming marathons.

It’s a simple upgrade that can change your entire gaming experience.

Conclusion

Connecting a PS4 controller to Windows 11 via Bluetooth might seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually straightforward once you know the steps. From pairing your controller to configuring Steam or using DS4Windows for non-Steam games, this guide has covered everything you need. With a fully connected controller, you can enjoy a comfortable, immersive gaming experience with minimal hassle. So plug in—or rather, pair up—and take your gaming to the next level!

FAQs

1. Can I connect a PS4 controller to Windows 11 without Bluetooth?
Yes! You can use a USB cable to connect the controller directly. It’s often more stable and reduces input lag.

2. Why isn’t my PS4 controller showing up in Bluetooth settings?
Ensure it’s in pairing mode by holding the PS + Share buttons until the light flashes. Also, check that your PC’s Bluetooth is on and functioning.

3. Do all games support PS4 controllers on PC?
Not all. Steam games usually do, but for non-Steam games, DS4Windows is recommended to map the controller as an Xbox device.

4. How many PS4 controllers can I connect to one PC?
You can connect multiple controllers, but it’s best to pair them one at a time and assign different colors in DS4Windows to avoid confusion.

5. Can I charge my PS4 controller while gaming via Bluetooth?
Yes, you can use a USB cable to charge it while gaming, but the connection will remain wireless.

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