How To Connect a PS4 Controller to Steam on Windows

The PlayStation 4 controller, officially known as the DualShock 4, is a popular choice among gamers for its comfortable design and precise controls. If you’re a PC gamer using Steam on a Windows system, connecting a PS4 controller can enhance your gaming experience significantly. While Steam offers native support for the DualShock 4, ensuring proper setup is essential to avoid input issues or functionality gaps.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to connect your PS4 controller to Steam on Windows, covering both wired and wireless options, troubleshooting tips, and best practices for optimal performance.

System Requirements and Preparation

Before starting, ensure that your setup meets the following requirements:

  • A Windows PC running Windows 10 or 11
  • The latest version of Steam installed
  • A PS4 DualShock controller
  • A micro-USB cable (for wired connection)
  • A Bluetooth adapter or built-in Bluetooth (for wireless connection)

Steam’s Big Picture Mode and Steam Input provide built-in support for the DualShock 4, removing the need for third-party software in most cases.

Method 1: Connecting via USB Cable (Wired)

This is the simplest way to connect your PS4 controller to Steam. Follow these steps:

  1. Plug the micro-USB end of your cable into the controller.
  2. Connect the other end to a USB port on your PC.
  3. Wait for Windows to recognize the device. It should automatically install the necessary drivers.
  4. Launch Steam and click on Steam > Settings, then navigate to the Controller > General Controller Settings.
  5. Check the box for PlayStation Configuration Support. Your controller should now show up as a PlayStation 4 Controller.

Method 2: Connecting via Bluetooth (Wireless)

If you prefer a cleaner, wireless gaming setup, Bluetooth is a great option. Here’s how to connect your PS4 controller via Bluetooth:

  1. Make sure your PC has Bluetooth capability.
  2. Hold down the PS and Share buttons on your controller simultaneously for about 5 seconds. The light bar will start flashing, indicating it’s in pairing mode.
  3. On your PC, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other Devices.
  4. Click on Add Bluetooth or other device and choose Bluetooth.
  5. Select Wireless Controller from the list. If prompted for a pairing code, enter 0000.
  6. Once connected, launch Steam and follow the same steps in “General Controller Settings” to enable PlayStation support.

Note: Bluetooth connections may introduce slight input latency. For competitive games, a wired connection is recommended for the lowest latency.

Customizing Controller Settings in Steam

Steam offers extensive customization options for your PS4 controller. Once recognized by Steam:

  • You can remap buttons to suit your playstyle.
  • Enable or disable the trackpad feature for specific games.
  • Create controller profiles for different games that automatically load when the game starts.

To access these features, go to Library > Right-click on a game > Manage > Controller Configuration.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your controller is not being recognized or behaves erratically, consider the following fixes:

  • Ensure that your Steam client is updated to the latest version.
  • Try switching USB ports or using a different cable for wired connections.
  • Restart both your PC and Steam after making Bluetooth connections.
  • Disable conflicting drivers such as DS4Windows, which may interfere with Steam’s native support.
  • Make sure PlayStation Configuration Support is enabled in Steam Settings.

Conclusion

Thanks to Steam’s advanced controller support, using a PS4 DualShock controller on a Windows PC is now straightforward and effective. Whether you connect via USB for reliability or Bluetooth for convenience, configuring your controller properly ensures the best possible gaming experience.

If you’re serious about getting the most out of your hardware, don’t overlook the customization options within Steam. They not only make your gameplay more comfortable but also enhance overall performance.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to enjoy all your favorite games on Steam with the comfort and precision of a DualShock 4 controller.