How to Connect PS4 and PS5 Controller to Steam Deck
The PS4 and PS5 DualShock and DualSense controllers both connect to Steam Deck via Bluetooth. The process takes about two minutes and the controllers work in both Gaming Mode and Desktop Mode once paired.
How to Connect a PS4 or PS5 Controller to Steam Deck
- On your Steam Deck, press the Steam button and go to Settings > Bluetooth
- Make sure Bluetooth is turned on
- On your PS4 controller: hold the PS button and the Share button simultaneously until the light bar flashes rapidly
- On your PS5 DualSense: hold the PS button and the Create button simultaneously until the light pulses
- The controller appears in the Steam Deck’s Bluetooth device list as “Wireless Controller” (PS4) or “DualSense Wireless Controller” (PS5)
- Select it to pair
Once paired, the controller works in Gaming Mode immediately. Steam recognizes it as a PlayStation controller and uses the correct button prompts. Touchpad, gyro, speaker, and haptic feedback all work to varying degrees depending on the game.
PS5 DualSense vs PS4 DualShock 4 on Steam Deck
Both controllers work well, but there are differences worth knowing.
The PS5 DualSense supports haptic feedback and adaptive triggers in games that implement DualSense features via Steam Input. Not many games use these features on PC, but the ones that do (Returnal, Spider-Man Remastered) feel noticeably different with DualSense support enabled. The DualSense also has a built-in microphone that works via Bluetooth, though audio quality is basic.
The PS4 DualShock 4 is lighter and has a slightly smaller form factor. It works identically to the DualSense for standard gaming, buttons, sticks, gyro, and triggers all function correctly. If you already have a DualShock 4, there is no reason to buy a DualSense for Steam Deck specifically.
Using the Controller in Desktop Mode
In Desktop Mode, PlayStation controllers work as standard gamepads. Open Steam and navigate to Settings > Controller to configure the layout. Steam Input lets you remap every button and customize the experience per game. For games that do not natively support controllers, you can map keyboard and mouse functions to the controller buttons.
Wired Connection
Both PS4 and PS5 controllers connect via USB-C (DualSense) or Micro-USB (DualShock 4) for a wired connection. Plug directly into the Steam Deck’s USB-C port (using a USB-C to USB-A adapter for the DualShock 4) and the controller is recognized instantly. Wired connection eliminates any potential Bluetooth input lag, though Bluetooth latency on the Steam Deck is low enough that most players cannot notice the difference.
Troubleshooting
Controller not appearing in Bluetooth list: Make sure the controller is in pairing mode (light flashing rapidly, not slowly). If the light pulses slowly, it is trying to reconnect to a previously paired device. Hold the PS button for 10 seconds to force it to disconnect, then put it back into pairing mode.
Controller connected but not working in games: Go to Steam Settings > Controller and make sure PlayStation controller support is enabled. Some games require the controller to be configured as a specific type.
Gyro not working: Steam Input must be enabled for the specific game. Right-click the game in Library, go to Properties > Controller, and enable Steam Input override. Gyro then works through Steam Input configuration.
Controller disconnects during play: This usually means the controller battery is low. PlayStation controllers do not show battery percentage on the Steam Deck by default, so charge them regularly. You can check via Steam Input, it shows a battery indicator for paired controllers.
Using Multiple Controllers
Steam Deck supports multiple Bluetooth controllers simultaneously for local co-op. Pair a second PS4 or PS5 controller the same way and both appear as separate players. Steam’s local co-op support handles the rest for games that support it. This works well for games like Stardew Valley, Cuphead, and other co-op titles.
For more controller options, see our best wireless controllers for gaming handhelds guide. For full accessory recommendations, see our best Steam Deck accessories guide.
A controller is only half the couch setup. See our best Steam Deck docking stations for getting it on the TV, and our handheld gaming PC rankings for how the Deck compares as a living room console.