It’s possible to play some computer games using a keyboard and mouse. However, once you have given a PlayStation controller a shot, it is highly unlikely that you would want to revert to the old ways. That is because a PlayStation controller is so much more fun!

In case you have not frequently used PlayStation before, you might be wondering: “Can you connect its controller to your PC rather than to a PS console?

Of course, you can do that. However, when connecting a PS controller to a PC, it’s important to keep in mind several steps. You will need to perform that before you can enjoy your favorite games.

In this how-to guide, we provide you with all the information you need to connect a PS4 controller to your PC.

Connecting PS4 controller to a PC made easy

There is not one but as many as four ways of connecting a PS4 controller to a computer. They are: 

• Connecting via a USB
• Connecting via Bluetooth
• Playing on Stream
• Using a DualShock 4 wireless controller

Method 1 – Connecting via a USB

There is no simpler way of connecting a PS4 controller to a PC than using a USB cable. All you need is a USB cable that has a USB-C or USB-A on one end and a micro plug on the other end. This method typically works seamlessly with Windows 10 and newer versions. Your PC will likely recognize the device automatically once you plug the USB cord in.

Method 2 – Connecting via Bluetooth

Want to connect a PS4 controller wirelessly? If so, there are two ways to do this. Both are discussed below.

Since PS controllers are Bluetooth-enabled, you should have no difficulty connecting it to your PC. 

Step 1: Go to Settings, click Bluetooth & Devices, select Turn on your PC’s Bluetooth, and click Add Bluetooth/Add device.

Step 2: First gently press and then hold the PS and Share buttons. Wait until your computer detects the controller. Next, choose the device and pair it.

Method 3 – Using a Wireless Adapter

If there’s no built-in Bluetooth in your PC, a wireless adapter could be an option. First, install the adapter on your computer. This is an easy process, requiring no more than plugging the wireless adapter into a USB 2.0 port. Once you have installed the adapter, simply follow the Step 1 and 2 shared above to detect the PS4 controller and pair it.

Method 4 – Play on Steam 

Do you have a Steam account? In that case, you can play Steam games using a PS controller rather than using a mouse and keyboard.

Step 1: Go to Steam app and open it. Next, turn Big Picture Mode on. Now click Settings | Controller | Controller Settings | Check the PS Configuration Support box.

Step 2: Using USB cord, plug the controller into a PC. Next, wait until Steam detects the controller. Finally, choose the device to pair it.

Method 5 – Using DualShock 4 Controller

After setting up a PlayStation on a TV, it can be quite a hassle to unplug it and follow one of the methods listed above whenever you want to play games. Using a DualShock 4 controller can help you avoid all of that. 

Don’t forget to update device drivers

Now that you know how to connect PS4 controller to your PC, you can enjoy awesome gaming experience. But there’ an additional thing you need to keep in mind. You must keep your PS4 drivers up to date. That’s because outdated controller drivers can not only impact your gaming experience but also pose a serious security risk.

How can I update controller drivers?

Updating Drivers Automatically

Automatic driver update tools offer many benefits, the most important ones being:

• You can update device drivers automatically
• The software scans and updates all outdated or missing drivers at one go
• The tool picks the right drivers for your device and operating system, so you won’t have to worry about installing an incorrect driver by mistake
• Automatic driver updates are 100% safe

Driver Updater is one of the best driver update tools out there. Outbyte Driver Updater will give you access to a database of over 1 million drivers. It will regularly scan your PC, suggesting new driver versions to install. Driver Updater contains drivers for a variety of Windows devices. With just one click, you can update drivers in your system.

Step 1
Click here to Install and launch the app

Step 2
Scan all devices

Step 3
Install or update drivers automatically

 

Start Download