How to Connect PS4 Controller to PS4 – Complete Step-by-Step Guide
The PS4 DualShock 4 controller is the heart of your PlayStation 4 experience. Without it, you can’t navigate menus, play games, or enjoy the full console experience. But many players often face issues when trying to connect their controller to the console, whether it’s the first time pairing, connecting wirelessly via Bluetooth, or troubleshooting when the controller is flashing but not connecting.
This guide will walk you through every method of connecting your PS4 controller to your PS4, with or without a USB cable, along with troubleshooting tips and answers to common questions.
How Do I Pair My PS4 Controller to My PS4?
Pairing your DualShock 4 controller to your PS4 can be done in two main ways:
- With a USB cable (recommended for first-time setup).
- Wirelessly via Bluetooth (once already paired).
If you’re setting up your controller for the very first time, a USB connection is the most reliable method. Afterward, you can switch to wireless use.
How to Connect PS4 Controller to PS4 with USB (Wired Method)
The simplest and most reliable way to connect is with the USB cable (also known as a charging cord).
Turn on your PS4 console
Make sure your PlayStation 4 is powered on
Connect the USB cable
Plug one end of the USB cable into the controller and the other end into the USB port of the PS4
Press the PS button
Press the PS button on the controller to establish the connection
Confirm connection
The light bar will glow blue, indicating a successful connection
This method is especially useful when connecting your PS4 controller for the first time.
How to Connect PS4 Controller to PS4 Without USB (Wireless Method)
Once your controller has been paired with the PS4, you don’t need to use a cable every time. Instead, you can connect it wirelessly.
Power on your PS4
Make sure your PS4 is powered on
Press and hold the PS button
Press and hold the PS button on the controller until the light bar turns on
Automatic connection
If it was previously paired, it will connect automatically
How to Connect PS4 Controller to PS4 Bluetooth (Wireless Setup)
If you want to connect your controller via Bluetooth (without the USB cord), you need to pair it manually.
Access Bluetooth settings
On the PS4 home screen, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices
Enter pairing mode
On the controller, press and hold PS button + Share button together until the light bar starts flashing
Complete pairing
On the PS4 screen, you’ll see “Wireless Controller” appear. Select it to complete the pairing
This method is useful when you’ve lost your USB cable or want to connect wirelessly right away.
How to Connect PS4 Controller to PS4 Pro
The process for connecting to a PS4 Pro is the same as the standard PS4:
- With USB: Plug in the cord, press the PS button.
- Without USB (wireless): Use the Bluetooth method with PS + Share button.
The only difference is that the PS4 Pro has extra USB ports, making wired connections even easier.
Why Is My PS4 Controller Not Connecting to My PS4?
If your controller is not connecting, here are possible reasons:
- Dead battery (charge it for at least 30 minutes).
- Faulty USB cable (try another cord).
- Bluetooth interference (reset and re-pair).
- Controller already paired with another device (like PC or phone).
Fix: Reset the controller using the small reset button at the back (near L2). Press it with a paperclip for 5 seconds, then reconnect.
Why Is My PS4 Controller Just Flashing and Not Connecting?
A flashing light means the controller is searching for a connection but cannot find the PS4.
Possible causes:
- Controller is out of sync.
- PS4 Bluetooth is not detecting it.
- Controller battery is too low.
Fix: Connect with a USB cable first, then try wireless pairing again.
Example Scenarios with Visuals
Example 1: First-Time Setup with USB
Imagine buying a new PS4 Pro. You take the DualShock 4 out of the box, plug it in with the USB cord, and press the PS button. The light bar turns blue — you’re ready to play.
Example 2: Wireless Pairing via Bluetooth
Your USB cord is lost. No problem! You press PS + Share button, the controller light flashes, and your PS4 shows “Wireless Controller.” You click it — and you’re connected wirelessly.
Example 3: Fixing Flashing Controller
Your controller keeps flashing white but won’t connect. You reset it with a pin, reconnect using USB, and it instantly works again.
FAQs
Use a USB cable for the first connection, then you can pair wirelessly.
It could be due to battery, cable, or sync issues. Reset and try again.
It’s searching for the console. Try reconnecting with USB first.
Yes, but only if it was previously paired using Bluetooth pairing.
Use Bluetooth (PS + Share button) and pair from PS4 settings.
Final Words
Connecting your PS4 controller doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you want to know how to connect PS4 controller to PS4 with USB, or wirelessly via Bluetooth, this guide has covered every method in detail.
If your controller is not connecting, flashing, or unsynced, simple fixes like resetting, using a different cable, or Bluetooth pairing can get it working again. If you want to test your gamepad controller try our free 100% working tool.
Once connected, you can enjoy a seamless gaming experience on your PS4 or PS4 Pro.