5 Easy Steps to Factory Reset a PlayStation 5 Controller

Get your PS5 controller working and synced again with this quick guide

Co-authored by Naseem Speach and Rain Kengly

Last Updated: April 20, 2025 Fact Checked

Is your PS5 controller drifting or unresponsive? All controllers have a hard reset button located on the back—you'll just need to use a small object to push it. This could fix simple problems such as your controller not connecting via Bluetooth. This wikiHow will show you how to factory reset your PlayStation 5 DualSense controller.

Things You Should Know

The reset button is located on the back of the PS5 controller. It's the small hole next to the Sony logo.^{[1]
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Use a paperclip or another small, pointed object to push the button for 3-5 seconds.^{[2]
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Connect the controller to the PS5 with a USB-C cable, and turn it on again.

Steps

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1
Turn off your PS5 controller. If your PS5 controller is unresponsive or drifting, you can hard reset it.^{[3]
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- If you're unable to turn off the controller, you can leave it on.
Turn the controller over. You'll find a small hole to the right of the Sony logo.^{[4]
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Use a small tool to push the button for at least 5 seconds. You can use a paperclip, a SIM card tool, a toothpick, or another small, pointed object. The button will be inside the hole.^{[5]
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- After 5 seconds, the controller will reset.^{[6]
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- If your controller is on, it will turn off when it has been reset.
Connect your controller to the PS5. Use a USB-C cable to connect your PS5 controller to the console.
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Turn on the PS5 controller. Use the PlayStation button to turn on your controller.^{[7]
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Research source} If it doesn't respond, you may need to charge it for a few minutes first.
- Your PS5 controller has been reset. You can now use it to play games, stream, and more.
- If you're still experiencing issues, consider calibrating the controller or contacting PlayStation.

Expert Q&A

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Question

Can I use my PS5 controller on a PS4 console?

Naseem Speach
Tech Expert
Naseem Speach is a Tech Expert based in Los Angeles, California. Naseem started his tech reviews YouTube channel in 2020 and has since gained a following of over 34,000 subscribers. He specializes in sharing information about the latest smart home tech, Apple, Samsung, Google, PlayStation, Microsoft, and gaming devices.

Naseem Speach

Tech Expert

Expert Answer

The PS5 controller and PS4 console are not compatible. You can use a Bluetooth adapter, but some functions of the PS5 controller might not work when used on a PS4 console.

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