I. Introduction
If you’re a gamer, you know that playing with a controller can give you a better gaming experience than playing with mouse and keyboard. If you have a PS4 controller and want to use it for your PC gaming, you might wonder if it’s possible. The good news is that it is! In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of connecting your PS4 controller to PC easily. You’ll learn how to connect it via Bluetooth and with a wired connection. Additionally, we’ll offer troubleshooting tips, the best software tools for the process, and some compatible games that you can play with your PS4 controller.
II. Step-by-Step Guide
Connecting a PS4 controller to your PC is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide that’ll take you through it:
- First, download and install DS4Windows on your PC.
- Once the installation has finished, connect your PS4 controller to your PC. This can be done in two ways: through a wired USB connection, or via Bluetooth.
- For wired connection, simply use a USB cable to connect your controller to your PC. This will prompt a Windows driver installation if this is the first time you’re connecting the controller.
- For the wireless connection, turn on Bluetooth on your PC and your PS4 controller.
- Then, hold down the PS button and the Share button together for around three seconds until the light bar of your controller starts flashing.
- Your PS4 controller will appear on the list of discoverable Bluetooth devices on your PC. Once you see it, click on it to connect it to your computer.
- The light bar on your controller will turn into a single color to indicate that it is connected to your PC.
- Start DS4Windows and click on “Start.” Your PlayStation 4 controller should now be connected to your PC, and you can configure it for your games.
III. Video Tutorial
While instructions can be helpful, some people learn better through visual aids. Here’s a great YouTube video that will take you through the process of connecting your PS4 controller to your PC.
IV. Troubleshooting Tips
While connecting your PS4 controller to PC can be a simple process, some users may experience issues. Here are some common problems that you may encounter when connecting your PS4 controller to PC and their solutions:
- In case you’re unable to connect your controller via Bluetooth, ensure that your PC has Bluetooth compatibility enabled and that your controller is within range of your PC.
- If your controller doesn’t appear in the DS4Windows menu, check to see if your controller is properly connected to the PC and if DS4Windows isn’t blocked by your antivirus software.
- If you’re still having issues, try disconnecting your controller and then reconnecting it, or close DS4Windows and use a different port to connect the controller.
V. Compatible Games
Once you’ve connected your PS4 controller to your PC, you’ll want to know which games you can play with it. Here are some games that are compatible with the PS4 controller:
- Assassin’s Creed Valhalla
- Batman: Arkham Knight
- Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War
- Resident Evil 3
- The Witcher
VI. Wireless vs. Wired Connection
Connecting your PS4 controller to your PC can be done with wireless and wired connections. Here are the pros and cons of each:
Wireless Connection
- Pros:
- Less cluttered gaming setup
- Higher flexibility in terms of mobility
- Cons:
- Poor connection or interruption while gaming
- Bluetooth adapter compatibility and signal range can be limiting
Wired Connection
- Pros:
- Reliable and uninterrupted connection
- Higher charging rate while gaming
- Cons:
- Possible restriction of movement and control due to cable length
- The cable might be messy
It’s up to you to decide which method best meets your needs and gaming style.
VII. Software Tools
There are several software tools that you can use to connect your PS4 controller to your PC. Here are some popular ones:
- DS4Windows: The most popular and reliable software tool for connecting a PS4 controller to a PC.
- Input Mapper: A free, open-source alternative to DS4Windows that works equally well for connecting your PS4 controller to your PC.
- SCPToolkit: A handy tool that not only connects your PS4 controller to your PC but also supports a wide range of third-party controllers.
VIII. Alternative Controllers
If you’re looking for alternative controllers to the PS4 controller, check out these other options:
- Xbox One Controller: This controller is the closest to the PS4 in terms of compatibility with PC gaming. It’s also compatible with many PC games.
- Steam Controller: While some find its design unconventional and challenging to get used to, the Steam Controller offers an outstanding level of customization.
- Logitech F310: This controller is a budget-friendly, reliable option for PC gaming.
IX. Conclusion
Connecting your PS4 controller to your PC is a simple process once you know what you’re doing. With our step-by-step guide, you can connect your controller effortlessly. Additionally, you now know about DS4Windows, compatible games, troubleshooting tips, and alternative controllers that you can use. By following these steps, you can enjoy your games in a more comfortable and engaging way.