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.

Want the Best Picture for Your PS5?

If PS5 4K, HDR, or HDMI issues keep coming up, the TV you're using matters as much as the settings. Our best gaming TVs for PS5 and Xbox guide covers TVs with 4 HDMI 2.1 ports, sub-10ms input lag, and proper VRR support — so you can run 4K/120Hz without black screen or handshake issues.

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).