PS5 DualSense controller not charging or syncing

Quick answer

• Check the USB cable and port for damage.
• Try a different charging cable or USB port.
• Reset the controller using the small button on the back.

Symptoms

• Controller not turning on.
• Flashing light bar or no lights at all.
• Unable to connect to the PS5 console.
• Controller disconnects during gameplay.

Quick checks

• Ensure the PS5 is powered on and not in rest mode.
• Verify that the controller is not already connected to another device.
• Check for any visible damage on the controller or charging cable.

Step-by-step fix

1. Inspect the USB cable and port:

   • Look for frays or bends in the cable.
   • Ensure the USB port on both the controller and PS5 is clean and free of debris.

2. Try a different USB cable:

   • Use another USB-C cable to charge the controller.
   • Connect it to a different USB port on the PS5.

3. Reset the controller:

   • Turn off the PS5.
   • Locate the small reset button on the back of the controller near the L2 button.
   • Use a paperclip to press and hold the button for about 5 seconds.
   • Reconnect the controller to the PS5 using a USB cable.

4. Check for updates:

   • Power on the PS5.
   • Navigate to Settings > Accessories > Controllers.
   • Ensure the controller firmware is up to date.

5. Test with another device:

   • Try connecting the controller to a PC or another PS5 to see if it syncs.

If it still doesn’t work

• Consider contacting Sony support for further assistance.
• Check if the controller is still under warranty for potential repair or replacement options.

FAQ

• Why is my PS5 controller not charging?

  • It could be due to a faulty cable, damaged port, or battery issues.

• How do I know if my controller is charging?

  • The light bar on the controller should glow orange while charging and turn off when fully charged.

• What should I do if my controller keeps disconnecting?

  • Ensure it is fully charged, reset the controller, and check for interference from other devices.

• Can I use my PS4 controller with the PS5?

  • PS4 controllers can be used for PS4 games on the PS5 but not for PS5 games.

• Why does my controller flash but not connect?

  • This usually indicates a syncing issue; try resetting the controller or connecting it via USB.

Related fixes

• For issues with HDMI connections, check out this guide.
• If your PS5 is not turning on, refer to this troubleshooting article.
• For general controller issues, see this resource.

For better connectivity and performance, consider using a Certified Ultra High Speed HDMI Cable (paid link).