Your new DualSense controller is blinking blue and refuses to connect? It's a frustrating but common problem. Don’t worry—the solution is often very simple. Follow this troubleshooting checklist, from the easiest fix to the most technical, to play together in under 5 minutes.
Express Troubleshooting: Try THIS First
Before anything else, 90% of connection problems come from one of these two points.
- THE USB CABLE: Use the USB-C cable supplied with the PS5 or a certified "data transfer" cable. A simple phone charging cable, even if it fits perfectly, will not work for syncing.
- THE RESET: Take a paperclip or thin tool, turn the controller over, and press the small reset button located in a hole near the Sony logo on the back. Hold for 5 seconds, then reconnect the controller to the console.
Diagnosis: Understanding Why Your Controller Isn’t Recognized
Identifying the source of the problem is the first step to solving it. Here are the most common culprits.
Culprit #1: The difference between a charging and data USB cable.
This is the most common mistake. Not all USB-C cables are equal. A charging cable only has the wires needed for power. A data cable has additional wires that allow the console and controller to communicate for the first sync (pairing). They look identical visually.
Sync was lost or corrupted.
If the controller was connected to another PS5, PC, or Bluetooth device, it lost its sync with your console. You must force it to “forget” the old device to recognize a new one. The hardware reset is designed for this.
A controller firmware update is required.
Sometimes the controller works, but the PS5 requires a firmware update before it can fully connect. This update can only be done via a wired connection.
The battery is simply too low.
A controller with a completely empty battery may not have enough power to start communication, even when plugged in.
Action Plan to Force the Connection (Full Method)
Follow these steps in order to guarantee your controller connects.
Step 1: Hardware reset of the controller (hard reset).
This is the mandatory starting point. Turn off your PS5 completely. Take your second controller and a thin tool (paperclip, pen tip). Locate the small hole on the back and press the reset button for 5–10 seconds.
Step 2: Connect with a certified data cable.
Use the original USB-C cable supplied with your PS5 or another cable you know is compatible for data transfer. Turn on your PS5, then connect the reset controller to the front USB-C port.
Step 3: Assign a profile (“Add User” or “Quick Guest”).
Press the PS button in the center of the controller. The console should now recognize it and display a profile assignment screen.
- Add User: Ideal for a family member who will play regularly.
- Quick Guest: Perfect for a visiting friend; no data will be saved.
Step 4: Update the controller software via PS5 settings.
Once the controller is connected, go to Settings > Accessories > Controller > DualSense Wireless Controller Software. If an update is available, run it to ensure perfect compatibility and stability.
Advanced Solutions if the Problem Persists
If your controller still refuses to cooperate despite the full method, there are two more technical but effective options.
Remove the controller from the Bluetooth devices list and re-pair it.
Go to Settings > Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories. In the “Registered Accessories” list, you may see a grayed-out "DualSense" or "Wireless Accessory." Select it and choose "Delete." Turn off the PS5, reset the controller again (Step 1), then repeat the connection process with the cable.
Start PS5 in Safe Mode to rebuild the database.
This may seem intimidating but is safe for your data and resolves many software conflicts.
- Turn off the PS5 completely.
- Press and hold the console power button. Release after the second beep (about 7 seconds).
- Connect your controller via USB and press the PS button.
- In the Safe Mode menu, select option 5: Rebuild Database.
Once complete, the console will restart, and you can attempt to connect your second controller normally.
Special Cases: PS4 and Pro Controllers
Can a PS4 controller be connected to a PS5? Yes, but with a major limitation.
You can connect a DualShock 4 to a PS5 using the same method (cable or Bluetooth). However, it will ONLY work for PS4 games available via backward compatibility. It cannot be used for PS5-specific games.
What about a pro controller like the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro? Is the process different?
No, and that’s the advantage of an officially licensed controller. For a high-performance controller like the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro, the initial USB-C sync process is identical to a standard DualSense. Plug it in, press the PS button, and it is instantly recognized by the console. You get pro performance with the simplicity of an official product.
