How to Connect a PS3 Controller to a PC

Switch from mouse and keyboard to the real deal

by Robert Earl Wells III
Robert Wells is a professional writer and amateur game developer. His specialties include web development, cryptocurrency, and cybersecurity.
Updated November 25, 2019

Using a PS4 controller with a PC is a simple plug-and-play operation. But connecting the DualShock 3 controller to a computer takes considerably more effort. Still, it's worth it because connecting a PS3 controller to your PC allows you to play your favorite games on Steam without needing a mouse and keyboard.

This article applies to the official DualShock 3 controller for PlayStation 3 and computers running Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, or macOS.

What You'll Need

In addition to your DualShock 3 controller and PC, you'll need a mini-USB cable and the following files:

How to Connect a PS3 Controller to a PC

  1. If your DualShock 3 controller is paired with a PS3, first unplug the PS3 from its power source, or else it can cause syncing conflicts.

  2. Plug the DualShock 3 into your PC via a mini-USB cable.

    If your computer doesn't have built-in Bluetooth support, plug in your wireless Bluetooth dongle.

  3. Download and run ScpToolkit_Setup.exe. It should automatically download all of the other files it needs, so just follow all the prompts.

    Download and run ScpToolkit_Setup.exe.

  4. If you're on Windows 7, download and install the Xbox 360 controller drivers.

    If you're on Windows 7, download and install the Xbox 360 controller drivers.

  5. After the ScpToolkit finishes setting up, select the big green button above Run Driver Installer on the window that pops up.

    After the ScpToolkit finishes setting up, click the big green button above Run Driver Installer.

  6. On the next screen, make sure the boxes next to Install DualShock 3 driver and Install Bluetooth driver are checked (if you have a Bluetooth dongle plugged in).

    On the next screen, make sure the boxes beside Install Dualshock 3 driver and Install Bluetooth driver are checked (if you have a Bluetooth dongle plugged in).

  7. Uncheck Install DualShock 4 driver (and uncheck Install Bluetooth driver if you don't have a Bluetooth dongle).

  8. Select the arrow beside Choose DualShock 3 controllers to install and choose your PlayStation 3 controller from the drop-down menu.

    Select the arrow beside Choose Dualshock 3 controllers to install and choose your PlayStation 3 controller from the drop-down menu.

  9. If connecting a Bluetooth dongle, select the arrow beside Choose Bluetooth dongles to install and choose your Bluetooth device from the drop down menu.

  10. Select Install. When finished, select Exit.

  11. The ScpToolkit Settings Manager will then appear in your system tray. Select it to add another device.

How to Use Your PS3 Controller With Your Computer

Once installed properly, the DualShock 3 should automatically work with the Steam client and any PC game that supports gamepads. You may be able to adjust the control settings for individual games, but your computer will recognize the PS3 controller as an Xbox controller, so keep that in mind when adjusting the button mapping. When you're done playing, turn off the DualShock by holding down the PS button on the center of the controller.

Man holding Sony Dualshock wireless controller while playing Gran Turismo 5 on Playstation 3.
tomos3/Getty Images

ScpToolkit must be running for the DualShock 3 controller to work on your PC.

How to Use a Wireless PS3 Controller With a PC via Bluetooth

To use your PS3 controller wirelessly, you'll either need a PC with built-in Bluetooth compatibility or a Bluetooth dongle plugged in. You must plug in the controller before you can play wirelessly. After unplugging the controller, it should automatically sync with your PC via Bluetooth if the proper drivers are installed.

How to Connect a PS3 Controller to a Mac

Using a DualShock 3 controller with a Mac is much simpler than connecting it to a PC because the necessary drivers are already present in OS X Snow Leopard and later. But setting up wireless connectivity requires some extra steps.

If you have the latest version of macOS, you can skip steps 7-10 below, as the process has become more streamlined.

  1. If your DualShock 3 controller is paired with a PS3, first unplug the PS3 from its power source, or else it can cause syncing conflicts.

  2. Reset your PS3 controller by inserting a paperclip into the tiny hole under the L2 button on the back of the DualShock 3.

  3. From the Apple menu on your Mac, select System Preferences > Bluetooth and make sure your computer's Bluetooth is enabled.

  4. Connect the controller to your Mac with a USB cable.

  5. Hold down the PS button on your controller for 1-3 seconds until you see the red lights on top of the DualShock 3 flashing.

  6. Unplug the controller from your Mac.

  7. Click the + icon in the System Preferences menu, then select Bluetooth Setup Assistant.

  8. When prompted for an access code, enter 0000 and select Accept.

  9. Close the assistant and select PLAYSTATION3 Controller in the Bluetooth list in your System Preferences.

  10. Select the gear icon and choose Add To Favorites and Update Services.

  11. Disable your Mac's Bluetooth and wait a second.

  12. Enable Bluetooth again and wait another second. Your DualShock 3 should now work with games that supports controllers.