DS4Windows supports wireless play via Bluetooth for DualShock 4, DualSense, Joy-Con, and Switch Pro. This guide covers pairing modes for each controller and how to fix connection drops.
Putting Controllers in Pairing Mode
- DualShock 4 (PS4): Hold PS + Share for about 3 seconds until the light bar blinks rapidly.
- DualSense (PS5): Hold PS + Create (or Share) until the light blinks.
- DualShock 3: Hold the PS button for 1–3 seconds until the red LEDs blink.
- Joy-Con / Switch Pro: Hold the Sync button until the LEDs blink.
On Windows: Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Add device → Bluetooth. Select “Wireless Controller” (or the name shown). If asked for a PIN, use 0000. Keep DS4Windows running when pairing for best results.
Sony DualShock 4 USB Wireless Adapter
If you have a DS4 and a Sony USB Wireless Adapter, you can use it instead of built-in Bluetooth. Plug the adapter into the PC, put it in pairing mode (hold the adapter button 1–3 seconds until it blinks), then put the DS4 in pairing mode (PS + Share). Only one controller can be connected per adapter.
Troubleshooting Connection Drops
- Use the Microsoft Bluetooth stack (not CSR or Toshiba) when possible.
- Disconnect the controller from the PS4/PS5/Nintendo console before pairing to PC.
- Move the Bluetooth adapter away from USB 3.0 ports to reduce interference; use a USB extension if needed.
- Use a Bluetooth 4.0+ adapter; built-in laptop Bluetooth can be unreliable.
- In Device Manager, open the Bluetooth adapter → Power Management and disable “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power.”
- Keep the controller within about 3 meters (10 feet) with a clear line of sight.
- Update Bluetooth adapter drivers and Windows.
If pairing fails, remove “Wireless Controller” from Windows Bluetooth devices and pair again. For lowest latency, use USB; see Reducing Input Lag.