Connecting a PS4 controller to your console without a USB cable is simpler than you might think, as long as you have another controller that is working already. You can pair your new controller wirelessly using Bluetooth by using the other controller to navigate the menus. If you only have one controller you’ll need a USB cable for the initial setup.
To set up your controller, turn on your PS4 and go to the Settings menu. Look for the Bluetooth Devices option. On your controller, press and hold the Share button and the PlayStation button at the same time. The light bar will start to flash, showing it’s in pairing mode. Your PS4 will then find the controller in the list of Bluetooth devices. Select it to finish the connection.
This wireless method works for both new controllers and ones you’ve used before. It’s great for times when your USB cable is missing or broken. You can even use this trick to connect your PS4 controller to other devices like phones or computers.
Connecting Your PS4 Controller Wirelessly
Want to ditch the USB cable and connect your PS4 controller wirelessly? It’s easy! Here’s how:
Initial Pairing
The first time you connect a PS4 controller to your console, you’ll need to use a USB cable for the initial pairing process. Here’s how:
- Connect the controller: Plug one end of the USB cable into your PS4 controller and the other end into a USB port on your PS4 console.
- Power on the PS4: Turn on your PS4 console by pressing the power button.
- Press the PS button: Press the PS button on your controller. The controller should now be paired with your console.
- Disconnect the USB cable: You can now unplug the USB cable and use your controller wirelessly.
Connecting Wirelessly After Pairing
Once you’ve paired your controller, you can connect wirelessly anytime:
- Power on the PS4: Turn on your PS4 console.
- Press the PS button: Press the PS button on your controller. The controller will automatically connect to your console wirelessly.
Troubleshooting Connection Issues
If you’re having trouble connecting your controller wirelessly, try these steps:
- Check the battery: Make sure your controller has sufficient battery charge.
- Reset the controller: There’s a small reset button on the back of the controller near the L2 shoulder button. Use a small pin or paperclip to press and hold the button for a few seconds.
- Try a different USB cable: If you’re having trouble with the initial pairing, try using a different USB cable.
- Check for interference: Other wireless devices can sometimes interfere with the Bluetooth connection. Try moving other devices away from your PS4 console.
- Re-pair the controller: If all else fails, you can try re-pairing the controller by following the initial pairing steps again.
Using Your PS4 Controller with Other Devices
Your PS4 controller can also be used with other devices, such as PCs and smartphones:
- PC: You can connect your PS4 controller to a PC using a USB cable or Bluetooth. You may need to install additional software, such as DS4Windows, to use the controller with some games.
- Smartphone: You can connect your PS4 controller to a smartphone via Bluetooth. This can be useful for playing mobile games that support controller input.
By following these simple steps, you can enjoy the freedom and convenience of using your PS4 controller wirelessly.
Key Takeaways
- PS4 controllers can connect wirelessly through Bluetooth
- Pairing mode is activated by pressing Share and PS buttons together
- Wireless connection works for new and previously used controllers
Preparing Your PS4 and Controller for Connection
Before connecting your PS4 controller wirelessly, you need to set up a few things. This involves making sure your controller has enough power and putting it in pairing mode.
Ensuring Controller Charge
Check your DualShock 4 controller’s battery level. If it’s low, charge it first. Plug the small end of a USB cable into the controller’s top port. Connect the other end to a PS4 USB port. The light bar will glow orange while charging.
A full charge takes about 2 hours. You can use the controller while it’s plugged in. But for wireless setup, unplug it once charged.
Activating Pairing Mode on DualShock 4
Turn on your PS4 using the power button on the front of the console. Go to the PS4 dashboard. Open “Settings” from the top menu. Select “Devices,” then “Bluetooth Devices.”
On your controller, press and hold the PlayStation button and Share button at the same time. Keep holding them until the light bar starts to flash. This means the controller is in pairing mode.
Your PS4 should now detect the controller. Select it from the list of Bluetooth devices to finish pairing.
Connecting the PS4 Controller via Bluetooth
Bluetooth lets you connect your PS4 controller without a USB cable. This wireless method is easy and convenient.
Using the PS4’s Bluetooth Connectivity Settings
Turn on your PS4 and go to Settings. Select Devices, then Bluetooth Devices. Put your controller in pairing mode by pressing the Share and PS buttons at the same time. Hold them until the light bar flashes.
Your PS4 will search for new devices. When it finds your controller, select it from the list. The light bar will stop flashing and stay lit when paired.
You can connect up to four controllers this way. Each gets its own color. If you have trouble, try moving closer to the console or restarting both devices.
Troubleshooting Bluetooth Connection Issues
If your controller won’t connect, check its battery. A low battery can cause problems. Charge it using a USB cable, then try again.
Make sure no other devices are interfering. Turn off nearby Bluetooth gadgets. Reset your controller by pressing the small button on the back with a paperclip.
Still no luck? Update your PS4 system software. Old versions might have Bluetooth bugs. Go to Settings > System Software Update to check for updates.
If nothing works, your controller might be broken. Try connecting it to another PS4 to test. If it fails there too, you may need a new one.
Alternative Connection Methods and Uses
PS4 controllers can connect to the console without a USB cable. There are other ways to link your controller and use it with different devices.
Connecting with a Wired Keyboard
A wired keyboard can help set up a wireless connection for your PS4 controller. Plug the keyboard into a USB port on the PS4. Go to Settings, then Devices, and select Bluetooth Devices. Press the Share and PS buttons on your controller at the same time. The light bar will flash. Choose the controller from the list on screen.
This method is useful if your USB cable is broken or missing. It’s also handy when you want to add extra controllers without unplugging others.
Using the PS4 Controller with Other Devices
PS4 controllers work with more than just the PlayStation 4. They can connect to PCs, Macs, and mobile devices. On a computer, you can use the controller for Steam games. For Android and iOS, you’ll need to download the PS Remote Play app.
To pair with a phone or tablet:
- Put the controller in pairing mode
- Open your device’s Bluetooth settings
- Select the controller from the list
This lets you play mobile games or use Remote Play to control your PS4 from anywhere with internet.
