How to connect a PS5 controller via Bluetooth

Learning how to connect a PS5 controller via Bluetooth is a simple process and a wonderfully straightforward task. Additionally, this knowledge will be very useful if you plan to use your DualSense Wireless Controller on platforms other than the PS5, such as: B. on a PC or a mobile device.

That’s right: the DualSense is compatible with other devices via a Bluetooth connection! The DualSense itself has built-in Bluetooth compatibility and can be used to play games on it when paired with another Bluetooth-enabled device – such as an Android or iOS mobile phone.

Depending on the device you choose, there are a few additional things to consider, which we’ll go into in more detail below. For a wireless PC connection, for example, you need a USB Bluetooth adapter – many of which you can easily and cheaply buy from the online retailer of your choice (e.g. Amazon or Walmart). You must also ensure that your device’s operating system is up to date as required by Sony.

We’ll break this all down again below. To learn how to connect a PS5 controller to your device of choice via Bluetooth, read the relevant section below.

Tools and requirements

A DualSense Wireless Controller (the PS5’s pack-in controller)
A PC or an iOS or Android device such as a cell phone or tablet
A Bluetooth USB adapter if you play on PC

How to Connect a PS5 Controller via Bluetooth – Preparation

Make sure your DualSense Wireless Controller is completely turned off
Also disconnect it from all cable connections
Press and hold the Create and PS Home buttons to enter pairing mode

Prepare your DualSense Wireless Controller for pairing

How to use a PS5 controller over Bluetooth

(Image: © Future)

Regardless of your device of choice, the first step is to prepare your DualSense Wireless Controller for pairing. This is very easy. First, Make sure your controller is completely turned off. This means you have to completely disconnect it from a wireless or wired connection. If the controller is powered on via a wireless connection, easy Press and hold the PS Home button for a few seconds to turn off the controller manually.

Next, look at the two buttons highlighted in the image above – the Create button. directly above the D-pad and the center PS home button. That’s what you’re going to have to do Press and hold both buttons for a few seconds until the controller light bar lights up starts flashing. If this is the case, you have successfully entered pairing mode!

How to use a PS5 controller over Bluetooth with Android

Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra

(Image: © Future / Philip Berne)

For Android devices like the Samsung Galaxy S24 or OnePlus 12, pairing your PS5 controller is easy. On your home screen Swipe down and hold on the Bluetooth icon. From here all you have to do is do it Tap on the “Pair new device” option. Then look for the “DualSense Wireless Controller” option in the list. The controller should appear here if you followed the previous step and put the controller into pairing mode. Once selected, your DualSense will connect wirelessly to your Android device via Bluetooth!

Keep in mind that your device must be running Android 12 or later operating system. If you are not sure which version you are using, you can find this information in your device’s Settings under the System submenu. You can also manually perform a system update from here to ensure your device is running the latest Android version.

How to use a PS5 controller over Bluetooth with iOS

iPhone 15

(Image: © Future / Lance Ulanoff)

For iOS devices, the process is largely the same. On a phone like the iPhone 15 or iPhone 16, simply go to your home screen and Swipe down from top twice. From here, Find the Bluetooth icon, tap it and select the DualSense Wireless Controller from the menu. Similar to Android, this is extremely simple and should appear once you’ve put your controller into pairing mode.

Bluetooth is a relatively new addition to iPhone and iPad devices. Again, make sure your device is running either iOS 14.5 or iPadOS 14.5 or later to ensure your PS5 controller is compatible. To check your version, go to Settings > General > About and the version you installed will be listed above. Take a step back and type Software update to ensure your device is up to date when needed.

How to use a PS5 controller via Bluetooth on PC

PC gaming

If you are considering how to pair a PS5 controller to PC via Bluetooth, this might be the easiest method of all. However, this can come at a cost if you don’t already have the necessary equipment to make it work.

Most PCs do not have a built-in Bluetooth solution. Instead, you’ll need to buy a USB Bluetooth adapter, which looks like a 2.4GHz dongle and is often included with many of the best PS5 controllers and best Xbox controllers. They are also available at the retailer of your choice, be it Amazon, Walmart or elsewhere.

Once you receive your USB Bluetooth adapter, plug it into one of the USB ports on your PC. Depending on which model you purchased, you may also need to turn on the adapter. Once it’s set up and your DualSense is in pairing mode, it should automatically connect to the USB Bluetooth adapter and you can start playing in no time!

FAQs

Can I use a PS5 controller with Mac devices via Bluetooth?

Yes! The process is largely the same as on a Windows PC. Simply get your USB Bluetooth adapter, plug it into your Mac, and begin the pairing process.

Do third-party PS5 controllers work over Bluetooth?

This depends on the model, but several third-party PS5 controllers have built-in Bluetooth support if they enable wireless connection. Examples include the Victrix Pro BFG and the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro. Alternatively, these controllers also come with a 2.4GHz dongle if you prefer that type of wireless connection – but these are not compatible with mobile devices without a USB-C to USB-A adapter.

Final thoughts

You now have all the knowledge necessary to connect a PS5 controller to the device of your choice via Bluetooth. Whether you’re playing on PC, iOS or Android, the process is extremely straightforward. Remember to charge your controller regularly as it will still drain the battery while playing!