Some games are better with a controller.

Some players prefer playing PC games with a controller rather than a mouse and keyboard. In some cases, it’s because they’re used to playing on a console and want to keep the same controls for all of their games. Other players feel it’s more intuitive to use a controller for certain types of games like racing sims because the pressure-sensitive triggers mimic the feel of acceleration and braking in a real car.

PlayStation 4 owners don’t have to worry about buying a new controller to play on PC. The PS4’s DualShock 4 controller works on PC but not as easily as an Xbox controller. Unlike Xbox controllers that are more or less plug and play, the DualShock 4 may require additional software and drivers to work outside of Steam. 

Here are several ways to connect a PS4 controller to your PC.

The DualShock 4 should be connected and ready to use.

It’s possible to connect a DualShock controller to a PC via Bluetooth instead of a cable. Most laptops come with built-in Bluetooth, but some desktops might require a dongle for it to work.

Bluetooth connectivity will only work if Steam or DS4Windows is installed.

Some PCs and games might require the user to calibrate and configure the button mapping using the tools in Steam or DS4Windows.