How to Fix Steam Not Detecting PS5 Controller (2023)

With the release of the PlayStation 5 (PS5), many gamers are eager to connect their new Dual Sense controllers to their Steam platform for a seamless gaming experience. However, some users have encountered an issue where Steam fails to detect the PS5 controller. In this article, we explore the possible reasons behind this problem and provide a comprehensive guide to fix Steam not detecting the PS5 controller. By following these methods, you can ensure that your PS5 controller works flawlessly with Steam and enjoy gaming to the fullest.

Why is the PS5 Controller Not Working on Steam?

The PS5 controller’s compatibility with Steam is generally seamless. However, there are a few common reasons why Steam may fail to detect the PS5 controller:

1. Outdated drivers: One of the main reasons for the PS5 controller not working on Steam is outdated drivers. Steam requires the latest drivers to recognize and support the controller properly. If you haven’t installed the latest drivers for the PS5 controller on your PC, Steam may not be able to detect it. It is essential to keep the drivers up to date to ensure compatibility and smooth functioning.
2. Connectivity issues: Connectivity problems can also cause Steam to fail in detecting the PS5 controller. If you are using a USB connection, a faulty USB cable or a loose connection can hinder the detection process. Ensure that the USB cable is securely connected to both the PS5 controller and your PC. Additionally, if you are trying to connect the controller wirelessly via Bluetooth, incorrect Bluetooth settings on your PC or an unstable connection can prevent Steam from recognizing the controller.
3. Steam settings: Misconfigured Steam settings can interfere with the controller detection process. If certain settings are disabled or not properly configured in Steam, it may not detect the PS5 controller. It is crucial to check and adjust the Steam settings related to controller support to ensure that they are enabled and properly set up.

In conclusion, outdated drivers, connectivity issues, and misconfigured Steam settings are some of the common reasons why the PS5 controller may not be working on Steam. By addressing these factors and following the troubleshooting methods mentioned in the article, users can resolve the issue and enjoy a seamless gaming experience with their PS5 controller on the Steam platform.

Fix: Steam Not Detecting PS5 Controller

Method 1: Attempt to Use a Different USB Cable

Sometimes, connectivity issues between the PS5 controller and the PC can arise due to a faulty USB cable. To address this problem, you can try using a different USB cable that you know is working correctly. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of this method:

1. Obtain a known working USB cable: Look for a USB cable that you have previously used successfully for connecting devices to your PC. It is crucial to ensure that the cable is in good condition and has no visible signs of damage.
2. Disconnect the current USB cable: Safely disconnect the existing USB cable that is connected between your PS5 controller and the PC. Unplug it from both the controller and the USB port on your PC.
3. Connect the new USB cable: Take the known working USB cable and connect one end to the USB port on your PC. Insert the other end into the USB-C port on your PS5 controller firmly. Ensure that the connection is secure.
4. Check if Steam detects the PS5 controller: Once the new USB cable is connected, open Steam on your PC. If the PS5 controller is properly connected and detected, you should see it being recognized within the Steam interface. You can verify this by navigating to the Steam “Big Picture Mode” or the Steam “Settings” > “Controller” section.
5. Test the controller functionality: To ensure that the new USB cable is working correctly, try using the PS5 controller to navigate through Steam’s interface or launch a game. Verify that all the buttons, triggers, and analog sticks are responding accurately. This will confirm that the connectivity issue was resolved by switching to a different USB cable.

If Steam still does not detect the PS5 controller after trying a different USB cable, it’s recommended to proceed with the other troubleshooting methods mentioned in the article. By systematically addressing each potential issue, you can increase the chances of resolving the problem and enjoy a seamless gaming experience with your PS5 controller on Steam.

Method 2: Restart the PlayStation 5

A simple restart of your PS5 console can often resolve minor software glitches that may be causing the controller detection problem. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of this method:

1. Exit any applications or games: Before restarting your PS5, make sure to exit any applications or games that are currently running. Press the PlayStation button on your PS5 controller to go back to the home screen, and navigate to the desired application or game to close it.
2. Turn off your PS5: Press and hold the power button on the front of your PS5 console until you see the power menu appear on your screen. Select “Power Options” from the menu.
3. Select “Turn Off PS5”: From the power options menu, select “Turn Off PS5” to shut down your console. Wait for the console to completely power down. You can confirm this when the lights on the console go dark, and there is no noise or activity.
4. Wait for a few seconds: After turning off the PS5, it’s essential to wait for a few seconds before turning it back on. This allows any residual power to dissipate and ensures a clean restart.
5. Turn on your PS5: Press the power button on the front of your PS5 console to turn it back on. Wait for the console to boot up completely. You will see the PlayStation logo appear on your screen, followed by the home screen.
6. Connect the PS5 controller: Once the PS5 is powered on, take your PS5 controller and connect it to the console using a USB cable. Ensure that the cable is securely connected to both the controller and one of the USB ports on the front or back of the PS5.
7. Check if Steam detects the PS5 controller: Launch Steam on your PC and check if the PS5 controller is now detected. Navigate to the Steam “Big Picture Mode” or the Steam “Settings” > “Controller” section to verify if the PS5 controller is recognized by Steam.

By restarting your PS5, you are essentially refreshing the system’s software, which can help resolve any minor glitches that might be preventing the controller from being detected. If the controller detection problem persists, you can proceed with the other troubleshooting methods mentioned in the article to further address the issue.

Method 3: PS5 Controller Hard Reset

Performing a hard reset on your PS5 controller can help resolve any unresponsive behavior or firmware-related issues. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of this method:

1. Locate the reset button: On the back of your PS5 controller, you will find a small hole near the center. This is the location of the reset button.
2. Prepare a suitable tool: To access the reset button, you will need a small, pointed object like a paperclip or pin. Straighten the paperclip or ensure the pin is ready for use.
3. Insert the tool into the reset hole: Carefully insert the tip of the paperclip or pin into the reset hole on the back of the controller. Apply gentle pressure until you feel the button inside being pressed.
4. Hold the button for a few seconds: While the tool is inserted, press and hold the button inside the reset hole for approximately 5-10 seconds. This action will initiate the hard reset process for the PS5 controller.
5. Remove the tool and release the button: After holding the button for the specified time, remove the paperclip or pin from the reset hole. Allow the controller a few moments to complete the reset process.
6. Reconnect the controller to your PC: Take a USB cable and connect one end to the PS5 controller, and the other end to a USB port on your PC. Ensure that the cable is securely connected to both devices.
7. Check if Steam detects the PS5 controller: Launch Steam on your PC and check if the PS5 controller is now detected. Navigate to the Steam “Big Picture Mode” or the Steam “Settings” > “Controller” section to verify if the PS5 controller is recognized by Steam.

Performing a hard reset on the PS5 controller resets its firmware and can resolve unresponsive behavior. It is recommended to try this method if the controller is not responding or if there are firmware-related issues that may be affecting its detection by Steam. If the issue persists, you can proceed with the other troubleshooting methods mentioned in the article to further address the problem.

Method 4: Bluetooth Should Be Enabled

If you are attempting to connect your PS5 controller wirelessly to your PC, it is important to ensure that Bluetooth is enabled and properly configured. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of this method:

1. Open PC Settings: On your PC, click on the “Start” button or press the Windows key to open the Start menu. From there, click on the “Settings” gear icon, which will open the PC Settings menu.
2. Navigate to Bluetooth settings: In the PC Settings menu, locate and click on the “Devices” option. This will open the Devices settings page. On the left-hand side of the page, click on the “Bluetooth & other devices” tab.
3. Enable Bluetooth: On the Bluetooth & other devices page, make sure the toggle switch under “Bluetooth” is turned on. If it’s already enabled, you can proceed to the next step. If it’s off, click on the toggle switch to turn Bluetooth on.
4. Put PS5 controller into pairing mode: Press and hold the PlayStation button and the Create button on your PS5 controller simultaneously for a few seconds until the light bar on the controller starts flashing, indicating that it’s in pairing mode.
5. Add a Bluetooth device: On the Bluetooth & other devices page, click on the “Add Bluetooth or other device” button. This will open the Add a device window.
6. Select Bluetooth: In the Add a device window, click on the “Bluetooth” option. Your PC will start scanning for available Bluetooth devices.
7. Pair the PS5 controller: After the scan is complete, you should see the PS5 controller listed as an available device. Click on it to select it, and then click on the “Pair” button to initiate the pairing process. Follow any on-screen prompts that may appear to complete the pairing.
8. Check if Steam detects the PS5 controller: Launch Steam on your PC and check if the PS5 controller is now detected. Navigate to the Steam “Big Picture Mode” or the Steam “Settings” > “Controller” section to verify if the PS5 controller is recognized by Steam.

By ensuring that Bluetooth is enabled on your PC and properly pairing your PS5 controller with your PC, you can establish a wireless connection and enable Steam to detect the controller. If the issue persists, you can proceed with the other troubleshooting methods mentioned in the article to further address the problem.

Method 5: Forget About the PS5 Controller and Repair It

If you have previously paired your PS5 controller with your PC and are experiencing connection issues, forgetting the controller and repairing it can help establish a fresh and stable connection. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of this method:

1. Open PC Bluetooth settings: On your PC, navigate to the Bluetooth settings as mentioned in Method 4. Access the PC Settings menu, click on “Devices,” and then select the “Bluetooth & other devices” tab.
2. Locate the PS5 controller: In the Bluetooth & other devices settings page, you should see a list of devices that are currently paired or available for pairing. Look for the entry corresponding to your PS5 controller. It may be listed as “Wireless Controller” or “DualSense Wireless Controller.”
3. Forget the PS5 controller: Click on the PS5 controller entry, and then select the option to forget or remove the device. This will remove the existing pairing information between your PC and the PS5 controller.
4. Put the PS5 controller into pairing mode: Press and hold the PlayStation button and the Create button on your PS5 controller simultaneously for a few seconds until the light bar on the controller starts flashing, indicating that it’s in pairing mode.
5. Repair the PS5 controller: On the PC Bluetooth settings page, click on the “Add Bluetooth or other device” button. This will initiate a scan for available devices. When the PS5 controller appears in the list, select it and click on the “Pair” button to start the pairing process.
6. Complete the pairing process: Follow any on-screen prompts that may appear to complete the pairing process between your PC and the PS5 controller. Ensure that you follow the instructions precisely to establish a successful connection.
7. Check if Steam detects the PS5 controller: Launch Steam on your PC and check if the PS5 controller is now detected. Navigate to the Steam “Big Picture Mode” or the Steam “Settings” > “Controller” section to verify if the PS5 controller is recognized by Steam.

By forgetting the previous pairing information and repairing the PS5 controller with your PC, you can eliminate any potential conflicts or issues that may have been causing the connection problem. This allows for a fresh and stable connection between the controller and Steam. If the issue persists, you can proceed with the other troubleshooting methods mentioned in the article to further address the problem.

Method 6: Install the Most Recent Drivers

To ensure smooth compatibility and proper functionality of the PS5 controller with your PC, it’s crucial to have the latest drivers installed. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of this method:

1. Visit the official PlayStation website: Open a web browser on your PC and visit the official PlayStation website. You can find it by searching for “PlayStation official website” in your preferred search engine.
2. Navigate to the support section: Once on the PlayStation website, look for the support section or search for “PS5 controller drivers” to find the relevant page.
3. Locate the latest drivers: On the support page, search for the most recent drivers specifically designed for the PS5 controller. These drivers are often available for download to ensure proper compatibility and functionality.
4. Download the latest drivers: Click on the download link for the latest drivers compatible with your PC’s operating system. The file may be in the form of an executable (.exe) or a compressed archive (.zip). Save the file to a location on your PC where you can easily access it.
5. Install the drivers: Locate the downloaded file and double-click on it to begin the installation process. Follow the on-screen instructions provided by the driver installation wizard to complete the installation. If the driver file is a compressed archive, extract its contents first and then run the installation executable.
6. Restart your PC: After the driver installation is complete, it’s recommended to restart your PC. This ensures that any changes made during the installation process are properly applied and takes effect.
7. Launch Steam: Once your PC has restarted, launch the Steam application on your PC.
8. Check if Steam detects the PS5 controller: Navigate to the Steam “Big Picture Mode” or the Steam “Settings” > “Controller” section to check if the PS5 controller is now recognized by Steam. Connect the PS5 controller to your PC either via USB or Bluetooth, and verify if it is detected by Steam.

By installing the latest drivers for the PS5 controller, you ensure that your PC has the necessary software components to communicate effectively with the controller. This maximizes compatibility and increases the likelihood of Steam detecting the PS5 controller successfully. If the issue persists, you can proceed with the other troubleshooting methods mentioned in the article to further address the problem.

Method 7: Examine Your Connection

When troubleshooting the connection between your PS5 controller and PC, it’s essential to check the USB connection thoroughly. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of this method:

1. Check the USB cable: Start by examining the USB cable connecting your PS5 controller to your PC. Look for any visible damage or fraying along the cable. If you notice any physical defects, it’s advisable to use a different USB cable.
2. Ensure a secure connection: Disconnect the USB cable from both the PS5 controller and the PC. Then, reconnect the USB cable firmly to both ends, ensuring a secure and snug connection. Listen for an audible click or feel for a solid connection.
3. Try a different USB port: If you’re using a USB cable to connect the PS5 controller to your PC, try plugging it into a different USB port on your computer. This step helps rule out any potential issues with a specific USB port.
4. USB port compatibility: Confirm that the USB port you’re using is compatible with the PS5 controller. In some cases, certain USB ports may not provide enough power or data transfer capabilities for the controller to function correctly. Check your PC’s specifications or refer to the manufacturer’s documentation to verify the compatibility of the USB port.
5. USB cable functionality: If possible, try using the USB cable with another device to determine if the cable itself is working correctly. This step can help identify whether the issue lies with the cable or the PS5 controller.
6. USB driver installation: Ensure that the necessary USB drivers are installed on your PC. Most modern operating systems automatically install generic USB drivers, but it’s beneficial to check for any available updates or specific drivers related to USB connectivity.
7. Check Device Manager (Windows): On Windows, you can access the Device Manager to verify if the PS5 controller is recognized and functioning properly. Right-click on the Start button, select “Device Manager” from the menu, and expand the “Human Interface Devices” or “Universal Serial Bus controllers” section. Look for any devices with a yellow exclamation mark or question mark, indicating driver issues or conflicts.
8. Check System Preferences (Mac): On macOS, navigate to “System Preferences” and open the “Bluetooth” or “USB” section. Look for the PS5 controller in the list of connected devices or connected USB devices.

By carefully examining the USB connection, ensuring a secure and functional cable, and trying different USB ports if necessary, you can troubleshoot any potential issues related to the physical connection between the PS5 controller and your PC. If the issue persists, you can proceed with the other troubleshooting methods mentioned in the article to further address the problem.

Method 8: Examine Your Steam Settings

To ensure that Steam recognizes and supports your PS5 controller, it’s important to verify the controller settings within the Steam application. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of this method:

1. Open Steam: Launch the Steam application on your PC.
2. Access Steam settings: Click on the “Steam” menu located at the top-left corner of the Steam window. From the drop-down menu, select “Settings.”
3. Navigate to the Controller settings: In the Steam Settings window, you will see a list of categories on the left side. Locate and click on the “Controller” tab to access the controller settings.
4. Enable PS4 Configuration Support: In the Controller settings tab, make sure to check the box next to “PS4 Configuration Support.” This option ensures that Steam recognizes and provides support for PS5 controllers.
5. Verify other controller settings: While in the Controller settings tab, you can also review other relevant options and configurations. For example, you can check if “Generic Gamepad Configuration Support” or other relevant options are enabled, depending on your specific needs.
6. Save the settings: After making any necessary changes, click on the “OK” or “Apply” button to save the settings and close the Steam Settings window.
7. Test the PS5 controller: Connect your PS5 controller to your PC either via USB or Bluetooth, and launch a game through Steam that supports controllers. Verify if the PS5 controller is now detected and functions properly within the game.

By examining and adjusting the Steam settings, specifically enabling the “PS4 Configuration Support” option, you ensure that Steam recognizes and provides compatibility for your PS5 controller. This step is crucial for seamless integration and optimal functionality within Steam games. If the issue persists, you can proceed with the other troubleshooting methods mentioned in the article to further address the problem.

Method 9: Update the Steam Client

To ensure optimal compatibility and functionality with your PS5 controller, it’s important to keep your Steam client up to date. Regular updates often include bug fixes and improvements related to controller support. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of this method:

1. Open Steam: Launch the Steam application on your PC.
2. Access the Steam menu: Click on the “Steam” menu located at the top-left corner of the Steam window.
3. Check for updates: From the drop-down menu, select “Check for Steam Client Updates.” This option allows Steam to check for the latest updates available for the Steam client.
4. Update the Steam client: If there is an update available, follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the update process. The Steam client will download and install the latest version automatically.
5. Restart Steam: After the update is complete, it’s recommended to restart the Steam client. This ensures that any changes made during the update are properly applied and takes effect.
6. Connect the PS5 controller: Once Steam has restarted, connect your PS5 controller to your PC either via USB or Bluetooth.
7. Verify controller detection: Launch a game through Steam that supports controllers and check if the PS5 controller is now detected and functioning correctly.

By updating your Steam client to the latest version, you ensure that you have the most recent bug fixes, enhancements, and controller compatibility improvements. This helps establish a smoother experience when using the PS5 controller with Steam. If the issue persists, you can proceed with the other troubleshooting methods mentioned in the article to further address the problem.

Remember to regularly check for updates for both Steam and the PS5 controller drivers to maintain optimal compatibility and enjoy the best gaming experience.

 

FAQs

1. Can you use a PS5 controller on Steam?

Yes, the PS5 controller is compatible with Steam. Steam has built-in support for a wide range of controllers, including the PS5 controller. However, if you encounter any issues with Steam not detecting the PS5 controller, there are several troubleshooting methods you can try to resolve the problem and ensure its proper functionality.

2. Why is the PS5 controller not working on Steam?

There can be several reasons why Steam may fail to detect the PS5 controller. Some common causes include outdated drivers, connectivity issues, misconfigured Steam settings, or even software glitches. It’s important to go through the troubleshooting methods outlined in this article to identify and resolve the specific issue affecting your controller.

3. How can I fix Steam not detecting my PS5 controller?

To address the issue of Steam not detecting the PS5 controller, you can follow several troubleshooting methods mentioned above, including:

• Attempting to use a different USB cable.
• Restarting the PlayStation 5.
• Performing a hard reset on the PS5 controller.
• Ensuring Bluetooth is enabled for wireless connection.
• Forgetting and repairing the PS5 controller.
• Installing the most recent drivers for the PS5 controller.
• Checking the USB connection and trying different ports.
• Examining and adjusting Steam settings.
• Updating the Steam client to the latest version.

By going through these methods step by step, you can increase the chances of resolving the issue and getting your PS5 controller recognized by Steam.

4. How do I update the Steam client?

Updating the Steam client is crucial for staying up to date with the latest features, bug fixes, and improvements, including controller compatibility enhancements. To update the Steam client, follow these steps:

• Open the Steam application on your PC.
• Click on the “Steam” menu located at the top-left corner of the Steam window.
• Select “Check for Steam Client Updates” from the drop-down menu.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to initiate the update process.
• After the update is complete, restart the Steam client to apply the changes.

Regularly updating your Steam client ensures that you have the most recent version, which maximizes compatibility with various controllers, including the PS5 controller.

By addressing these frequently asked questions, you gain a better understanding of the compatibility between the PS5 controller and Steam, as well as the troubleshooting methods available to resolve any issues that may arise. Remember, troubleshooting steps may vary depending on your specific setup and software configuration.

 

Conclusion

The inability of Steam to detect the PS5 controller can be frustrating for gamers who want to enjoy their favorite titles seamlessly. By following the troubleshooting methods outlined in this article, you can resolve the issue and get your PS5 controller working flawlessly with Steam. Whether it’s through checking connectivity, updating drivers, or adjusting settings, these methods will help you overcome the problem and ensure a smooth gaming experience with your PS5 controller on Steam.