This wikiHow teaches you how to connect a PS4 controller to Steam on your computer so you can play games with it, using either a wired USB cable or wireless Bluetooth connection.

Before you start: You’ll need a PS4 controller, a micro-USB cable for the wired method, Steam installed on your computer, and Bluetooth capability for the wireless method.

A step-by-step guide to connecting a PS4 controller to Steam

Choose the method below based on your setup and follow the steps to get your controller recognized in Steam.

Method 1: Using a USB cable

  • Plug your PS4 controller into your computer using a micro-USB cable.
  • Press the PS button on the controller to turn it on; the light bar on the back should illuminate.
  • Open the Steam client on your computer.
  • Click the Steam menu in the top-left corner.
  • SelectSettings.
  • ClickController.
  • SelectGeneral controller settings.
  • Check the box next to PlayStation Configuration Support.
  • Select your controller from the list under Detected controllers.
  • ClickPreferences if available, then Submit.

Method 2: Using Bluetooth

  • Enable Bluetooth on your computer:
    • If using Windows: Go to Start → Settings → Devices → Bluetooth and turn it on.
    • If using macOS:Click the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar and enable it.
  • Press and hold the PS button and Share button on the controller until the light bar pulses rapidly (pairing mode).
  • ClickAdd Bluetooth or other device (Windows) or go to Bluetooth settings (macOS).
  • SelectBluetooth as the device type.
  • Choose your PS4 controller from the list of available devices to pair it.
  • ClickDone or Connect to complete pairing.
  • Open the Steam client.
  • Click the Steam menu in the top-left corner.
  • SelectSettings.
  • ClickController.
  • SelectGeneral controller settings.
  • Check the box next to PlayStation Configuration Support.
  • Select your controller from the list under Detected controllers.
  • ClickPreferences if available, then Submit.
Pro tip: Press the PS button after setup to access Steam’s keybinding menu and customize your controller buttons for specific games.

Launch a Steam game that supports controllers to test your setup; navigate using the analog sticks and buttons to confirm responsiveness.

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If issues arise, restart Steam or your computer, ensure drivers are updated, and check for controller firmware updates via official PlayStation tools. For optimal play, calibrate the controller in Steam’s settings and explore community controller profiles for popular titles.