How to reset a DualSense controller

⚡Fast fix

• Find a paperclip. Use it to press and hold the small reset button on the back of the DualSense™ controller for around 5 seconds.
• Get your controller back in sync. Use a USB-C cable to re-pair your controller and console.
• Connect to other devices with Bluetooth. PS5 Bluetooth pairing mode lets you connect your controller to a PC, tablet, and other devices.
• Is your DualSense controller not connecting after a reset? Try charging it, or get help from a PS5 repair pro.

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You've been looking forward to gaming all day, but your DualSense controller isn't responding right. Your character won't jump when you push the button, or they start wandering away when you're not even touching the joystick.

Asurion Experts know how frustrating it feels when your tech doesn't cooperate, and we help people solve everyday device problems just like this. This guide walks you through how to reset a DualSense controller and get back to playing.

Two options for resetting your DualSense controller

There are two ways to reset a DualSense controller, depending on what's going wrong.

1. Do a soft reset

A soft reset is often all it takes to fix minor connection issues. Here's how to do it:

1. Turn on your PlayStation® 5 console.
2. Press the PS button to open the Control Center.
3. Click Accessories > General.
4. Click Bluetooth Accessories and choose your DualSense controller from the list of connected devices.
5. Select Delete or Forget to unpair the controller.
6. Use the USB-C charging cable to connect the console and the controller.
7. Press the PS button to reconnect the controller.

Try this option for small problems, such as controller stick drift and occasionally unresponsive buttons.

2. Do a hardware reset

A soft reset may not work if your controller is freezing or randomly unpairing from your console. It also might not help if your PS5 USB ports stop working or you experience other firmware problems.

For more persistent issues like these, go ahead and hard reset your PS5 controller:

1. Turn off your console and unplug the controller if necessary.
2. Find the PS5 controller reset button near the logo on the back.
3. Insert a paperclip or SIM tool into the reset hole and gently press the button for 5 seconds.
4. Remove your tool from the pinhole and reconnect the controller with the USB-C cable.
5. Press the PS button.

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Pair your DualSense controller with your PS5 again

Both types of resets clear the pairing data from your PlayStation controller. Before you can get back to gaming, you'll need to reconnect it to your console.

Follow these simple steps to sync your controller:

1. Plug the controller into the console with the USB-C cable.
2. Press the PS button.

You can also pair your PS5 controller with other devices, including tablets and PCs. Follow these steps to enter DualSense pairing mode:

1. Turn off the player indicator by holding the PS button until the light shuts off.
2. Press and hold one of the action buttons and the PS button at the same time for 5 seconds. The player indicator and light bar will flash twice.
3. Turn on Bluetooth on your device and click Add Bluetooth devices.
4. Choose your controller from the list of available Bluetooth devices.

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If resetting doesn't fix the problem

Maybe you tried both kinds of resets, but you're still experiencing controller button lag or another issue. Try these troubleshooting tips.

Start by checking for a DualSense firmware update:

1. Pair your controller and console.
2. Open Settings and click Accessories.
3. Click Controller (General) > DualSense Wireless Controller Device Software.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to install any pending updates.

Another possible culprit is an old or broken USB-C cable. Try using a different cable to connect your DualSense Edge® controller and PlayStation.

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FAQ

Does resetting a DualSense controller delete anything?

No, even a hard reset won't delete any of the saved data from your console. All it does is reset any temporary glitches or connection issues.

Why won't my DualSense controller sync after a reset?

Your controller might not sync after a reset if you plug the USB-C cable into the wrong port or use a power-only cable. Use the original cable that came with the controller, and double-check that you plugged it into the front port.

How do I put a DualSense controller in pairing mode?

Enter pairing mode by holding the PS buttonand one of the action buttons (such as the triangle or circle) at the same time for at least 5 seconds. You'll know you're in pairing mode when the player indicator light blinks.

Does resetting fix stick drift?

Yes, resetting a PS4 controller or a DualSense controller can sometimes fix controller drift caused by software issues. If a reset doesn't help, try using compressed air to clear out any debris around the joystick.