How to Use a PS5 Controller on Your PC or Mac

Gaming enthusiasts often seek ways to enhance their gaming experience, and one popular method is connecting controllers from gaming consoles to their PCs or Macs. With the release of the PlayStation 5 (PS5), many gamers are eager to use its innovative controller, the DualSense, on their computers. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of connecting and using a PS5 controller on both PC and Mac platforms.

Connecting PS5 Controller to PC

Setting up a PS5 controller on a Windows PC is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Gather Your Equipment: You’ll need your PS5 DualSense controller and the USB-C to USB-A cable that came with it. If purchased separately, ensure you have a compatible cable.
2. Plug in the Controller: Connect the controller to your PC using the USB cable. Insert the USB end into a spare USB port on your computer.
3. Detection: Windows 10 should automatically detect the controller once it’s plugged in.

Alternatively, you can connect the PS5 controller to your PC via Bluetooth. However, ensure your PC has built-in Bluetooth capability or purchase a Bluetooth dongle if not.

Connecting PS5 Controller to Mac

Connecting a PS5 controller to a Mac is similar to the process on a PC:

1. Prepare Your Equipment: Gather your PS5 DualSense controller and the charging cable it came with.
2. Connect to Mac: Plug the controller into a spare USB port on your Mac. If using a newer MacBook Pro with USB-C ports, you’ll need a USB-C adapter.
3. Detection: Your Mac should detect the controller once it’s plugged in.

Like with PCs, you can also connect the PS5 controller to your Mac via Bluetooth if your Mac has built-in Bluetooth or with a Bluetooth dongle.

Placing the PS5 Controller into Pairing Mode

To connect the PS5 controller to your PC or Mac via Bluetooth, you need to place the controller into pairing mode:

1. Pairing Mode: Hold down the PS button (the power button) and the Share button simultaneously on the PS5 controller until the lights begin flashing.
2. Bluetooth Detection: Your PC or Mac should now detect the controller under Bluetooth devices.

Using PS5 Controller with Steam

Many gamers use Steam as their primary gaming platform on PC. Here’s how to set up your PS5 controller with Steam:

1. Open Steam: Launch the Steam application on your PC.
2. Navigate to Settings: Click on “Steam” in the top-left corner, then select “Settings/Preferences.”
3. Access Controller Settings: Click on “Controller,” then choose “General Controller Settings.”
4. Select PS5 Controller: Your PS5 controller should appear as an option. Select it.
5. Configure Buttons: Customize button configurations as desired for optimal gameplay.
6. Save and Exit: Once configured, click “Save and Exit” to apply your settings.

Limitations of Using the PS5 Controller on PC or Mac

While connecting a PS5 controller to your PC or Mac opens up new gaming possibilities, there are some limitations to be aware of:

1. Lack of Haptic Feedback: The immersive haptic feedback feature of the PS5 controller is not available when using it on a PC or Mac.
2. Inactive Adaptive Triggers: The adaptive triggers, another unique feature of the PS5 controller, are not functional on PC or Mac.
3. Button Configuration: Some games may not display the correct PlayStation button prompts, requiring manual button configuration for each game.

Conclusion

In conclusion, connecting and using a PS5 controller on your PC or Mac is relatively simple and can enhance your gaming experience, especially when playing Steam-based games. While there are limitations compared to using the controller on a PlayStation 5 console, the versatility of using it on a computer opens up new gaming possibilities for enthusiasts.