Before players can start enjoying games on a PlayStation 5, they will need to pair at least one DualSense controller with the console. While that is not a particularly difficult thing to do, fans may encounter some issues when attempting to pair a DualSense controller with a PS5. This guide is here to provide some possible solutions to those issues, while also offering a general overview of both wired and wireless pairing.

How to Pair a DualSense Controller with a PS5

The first thing that players should know about pairing a DualSense with a PS5 is that at least one controller must be paired using a wired connection. To perform this type of pairing, players should turn on the PlayStation 5 console and connect their DualSense to it using a USB-C cable. When that connection has been made, fans should simply press the PS button near the center of the controller and wait for a white light to appear just above the PS button. This light indicates that the pairing is complete, and the DualSense can then be used wirelessly.

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If a Sony fan is unsuccessful in pairing a DualSense with a PS5 using this method, they should try to resolve the issue using these approaches:

  • Leave the controller plugged into the PS5 for a few minutes, giving it time to recharge, and then try again.
  • Try a different USB-C cable.
  • Hold down the controller's PS button and its Create button (left of the trackpad) until its blue light starts pulsating. Connect the controller to the console and try again.
  • Completely shut down the PS5 and disconnect its power cable for 20 minutes. Turn the console back on with the DualSense connected.
pair ps5 and dualsense

Once a player has a DualSense controller paired with their PS5, they will be able to pair additional controllers wirelessly. This is done by using the paired controller to navigate to the PS5's home screen and then accessing Settings > Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories. Players should then hold down the unpaired controller's PS button and Create button until it is listed onscreen under "Accessories found." All that is left to do now is to use the paired controller to select that listing and complete the process.

To note, issues with wireless pairing can arise if the unpaired controller is powered on when a PS5 owner starts the process that has just been outlined. Fans will know that their DualSense is powered on if its light bar is illuminated, and it can be turned off simply by holding down the PS button.

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