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The PS4 has dropped in price since the launch of the PS5, so there’s a good chance you’ve snapped one up recently to play through the fantastic library of games.

But before you start playing, you’ll need to know how to connect your DualShock controller first.

Fortunately, the process of connecting a DualShock controller to a PS4 console is very straightforward, and we’re here to guide you through the process.

This guide can also be used to add additional controllers, so it’s useful for local multiplayer sessions as well as those who’ve just purchased a new PS4 console.

The PS4 console needs to be turned off to connect to your controller. On the front of the console, you’ll find a small power button directly above the disk eject button. Press it.

You’ll need a USB-A to microUSB cable for this next step. This should have been bundled with the console, but is easy enough to find online if you’ve misplaced it. Plug the rectangle USB-A end into the front port on the PS4, and then slot the other end into the PS4 controller. Once connected, the PS4 will start to charge the controller.

Once you press the PlayStation button on the controller, it should connect to your PS4 console.

You can then detach the cable and continue with a wireless connection, as long as your controller has enough charge. Now the PS4 controller is paired to the console, you’ll also be able to turn the PS4 on by simply tapping on the pad’s PlayStation button.

If the controller is not connecting to your console, it may need to be recharged. If that’s not the issue, then try a hard rest on the console by holding down on the power button until you hear a second bleep.

If you don’t have a cable for pairing a second controller to your PS4, then (with another controller) head over to Settings > Devices > Bluetooith Devices. Then hold both the Share and PlayStation button on your unpaired controller. Your controller should then enter pairing mode and show up on your PS4 console as an avaiable Bluetooth device. Click on it, and it should all be set up. If this is the very first controller you’re connecting to te PS4, then you’ll need a cable.

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Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.

We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.

Products tested and reviewed since 2003