How To Pair A PS4 Controller With Your PC

It may seem simple to link a DualShock 4 controller to a PC, but this is not always the case. That's why we're going to walk you through the process to help you.

Dualshock 4
It's not so easy to link your PS4 controller to your PC. | © LESNumeriques

Are you tired of using a keyboard and mouse for gaming on your PC? If so, you may want to try using a PlayStation 4 (PS4) controller instead. While the Xbox controller is a popular choice for PC gamers, the PS4 controller is a great backup option and may even be better for those who prefer a specific layout for their analog sticks.

In this article, we'll guide you through the process of using a DualShock 4 controller for PC gaming. Although it may not be as simple as using an Xbox controller, it's still easy to do and can enhance your gaming experience.

How To Pair A DualShock 4 With Your PC

Before you start using your DualShock 4 controller on your PC, you'll need a few things:

  • DualShock 4 PS4 controller
  • A micro-USB cable
  • Steam or Microsoft .NET Framework 4.5
  • DS4Windows

Setting Up Your Controller with Steam

If you primarily use Steam to play games, you'll be happy to know that using a PS4 controller with Steam is very easy. Just follow these steps:

  1. Open Steam and go to Settings in the top-left dropdown menu.
  2. Open the Controller tab and click General Controller Settings.
  3. Register your device to your account.
  4. Change your preferences, calibrate your joysticks, and tick the PlayStation Configuration Support box.
  5. Remap your controller from the Settings Controller tab or in-game.

That's it! Your DualShock 4 controller is now ready to use with Steam.

If you have any connection issues, try closing and reopening Steam. If that doesn't work, try using a USB 2.0 port instead of a USB 3.0 port.

Setting Up Your Controller with DS4Windows

If you want to use your DualShock 4 controller with games outside of Steam, you'll need to install DS4Windows. Here's how to do it:

  1. Download the latest version of Microsoft .NET Framework.
  2. If you're using Windows 7, you'll need to download the Xbox 360 controller driver.
  3. Plug in your controller or Bluetooth dongle.
  4. Download and extract the latest version of DS4Windows.
  5. Open DS4Windows and check the connection in the Controllers tab.
  6. In the Settings tab, select Hide DS4 Controller.
  7. Set Use Xinput Ports to one.
  8. Edit or create a profile and remap your controller.

After you complete these steps, your DualShock 4 controller should be ready to use with any non-Steam games.

Get some of the best gear for gaming right here on Amazon !

Using a DualShock 4 controller for PC gaming is a great way to switch up your gaming experience. While it may take a little bit of extra setup, it's definitely worth it. Whether you primarily use Steam or prefer playing non-Steam games, you'll be able to enjoy the comfort and convenience of a PS4 controller.

Gaston Cuny

Gaston is a writer covering various Fortnite & Entertainment topics for EarlyGame. Previously, Gaston worked for Dexerto's editorial staff, writing guides and news articles....