How to Fix PS5 Controller Disconnecting Issues
How to Fix PS5 Controller Disconnecting Issues
The PS5 DualSense controller is a masterpiece of engineering, but persistent disconnection problems can destroy the gaming experience. Random dropouts, connection failure during gameplay, or total unresponsiveness can happen over USB or Bluetooth. At How To Fix, we address every controller disconnecting issue with precise, real-world solutions tested on actual devices.
Check the Controller’s Battery Health
Before diving deeper, confirm that the controller battery is sufficiently charged. A dying battery may disconnect intermittently, even while plugged in.
- Plug the controller into the PS5 using the original USB-C cable.
- Charge it for at least 30 minutes before troubleshooting.
- Avoid third-party charging docks or cables which may not deliver consistent power.
If the problem persists after a full charge, proceed to the next section.
Update the Controller Firmware
Outdated firmware is a primary cause of disconnections. DualSense updates are not automatic unless you’ve enabled them.
Steps to update:
- Connect the controller via USB.
- Go to Settings > Accessories > Controller (General) > DualSense Wireless Controller Device Software.
- Select Update Now if available.
Make sure the console firmware is also updated to the latest version. This ensures compatibility between system and accessories.
Reset the PS5 Controller Properly
Performing a hard reset on the DualSense controller clears pairing memory and potential glitches.
How to reset the controller:
- Power off the PS5 completely.
- Locate the small reset hole on the back of the controller near the L2 trigger.
- Insert a pin and hold it for 10 seconds.
- Reconnect using the USB cable and press the PS button.
This re-establishes a fresh link between the controller and console.
Check for Interference in Wireless Connections
Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth headphones, and even microwaves can interfere with the Bluetooth signal used by the controller.
Actions to reduce signal interference:
- Move the PS5 and controller away from Wi-Fi routers and metal surfaces.
- Disconnect unnecessary Bluetooth devices in the room.
- Use a wired connection while gaming to ensure uninterrupted play.
Switch to a Wired Connection Permanently
If Bluetooth proves unstable in your environment, you can force the PS5 to use USB mode.
Enable USB communication:
- Go to Settings > Accessories > Controller (General).
- Under Communication Method, select Use USB Cable.
Use the official Sony USB-C cable or a high-quality data cable. Charging-only cables do not transmit gameplay data and may cause connection issues.
Delete and Re-Pair the Controller
In some cases, removing the controller from the PS5’s Bluetooth memory and re-pairing it solves invisible software conflicts.
Remove and re-pair:
- Go to Settings > Accessories > Bluetooth Accessories.
- Highlight the controller and press Options.
- Select Forget Device.
- Press the PS button after reconnecting via USB to pair again.
This often resolves persistent disconnect loops that regular resets do not.
Disable Remote Play and Background Features
Remote Play and background system syncing can interfere with controller connectivity.
Disable Remote Play:
- Navigate to Settings > System > Remote Play.
- Turn Remote Play off.
Disable Rest Mode USB Disconnects:
- Go to Settings > System > Power Saving.
- Select Features Available in Rest Mode.
- Enable Stay Connected to the Internet and Supply Power to USB Ports.
This ensures the controller doesn’t disconnect while downloading updates or in standby mode.
Rebuild the PS5 Database
If your console shows other glitches along with controller issues, the system database may be corrupted.
Rebuild database:
- Power off the PS5.
- Hold the power button for 7 seconds until you hear a second beep.
- Connect your controller via USB and press PS button.
- Select Rebuild Database.
This will not delete games or save files but may solve system-wide issues affecting controller response.
Replace Faulty USB-C Ports or Cables
Sometimes, the issue is hardware-related and lies in the USB-C port on either the PS5 or the controller.
Signs of USB-C failure:
- Loose connection
- Wiggle sensitivity
- Only charges but does not transmit input
Try:
- Using a different USB-C cable
- Connecting to another USB port on the console
- Testing the controller on a PC or another PS5
If none of these work, contact Sony Support for a hardware replacement.
Fixing DualSense Bluetooth on PC or Mobile
If you’re using the PS5 controller wirelessly on PC or Android, and it disconnects, the issue is usually a driver or OS conflict.
On Windows:
- Open Device Manager.
- Find Bluetooth > Wireless Controller.
- Right-click and choose Uninstall Device.
- Reboot the system.
- Pair again via Settings > Devices > Bluetooth.
On Android:
- Remove the controller from Bluetooth paired devices.
- Reboot the phone.
- Pair again after resetting the controller.
Ensure your device supports Bluetooth 5.1+, as older versions often experience lag and dropout.
Check for Internal Controller Damage
If the controller has been dropped or exposed to moisture, the internal Bluetooth module or motherboard could be damaged.
Signs include:
- PS button not lighting up
- Intermittent power loss
- Total failure to connect
If under warranty, submit a support request through PlayStation. Outside warranty, contact a reputable repair technician or consider replacement.
How to Fix PS5 Controller Disconnecting During Specific Games
If disconnects occur only during certain games like Call of Duty, FIFA, or Fortnite, the issue may be game-specific firmware bugs or overheating.
Solutions:
- Delete and reinstall the game.
- Clear the PS5 cache:
- Power off the console.
- Unplug for 30 seconds.
- Plug back in and restart.
- Turn off adaptive triggers and haptic feedback for that game under Settings > Accessories > Controllers > Trigger Effect Intensity.
This reduces controller load and can stop game-related crashes or disconnects.
Avoiding Third-Party Accessories
Non-official chargers, cables, grips, and docks can cause shorts, overheating, or power draw conflicts.
Only use official Sony accessories or certified USB-C accessories that meet proper specifications.
When to Replace Your DualSense Controller
After attempting all fixes, if the issue remains, your controller may be irreparably damaged.
Check warranty:
- All controllers come with 12-month limited warranty.
- Visit PlayStation Support to file a return or repair request.
Conclusion
PS5 controller disconnecting issues can stem from a wide range of causes including firmware errors, hardware faults, Bluetooth interference, or system misconfiguration. By following the steps listed above, we ensure that every possible fix has been addressed in full. Regular maintenance, keeping software updated, and using certified accessories go a long way toward preventing future problems.
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