How to Reset a PS5 Controller

Reset the DualSense wireless controller when it won't sync

By Robert Earl Wells III
Updated on February 2, 2021
Reviewed by
Jerrick Leger
Jerrick Leger headshot
Reviewed by Jerrick Leger
Jerrick Leger is a CompTIA-certified IT Specialist with more than 10 years' experience in technical support and IT fields. He is also a systems administrator for an IT firm in Texas serving small businesses.
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What to Know

  • Turn off the PlayStation 5 and use a straightened paperclip to press the reset button on the back of the PS5 controller.
  • A factory reset can resolve problems pairing the PS5 controller with the PS5.
  • For a soft reset, turn off the console, or open the PS5 Control Center and select Accessories to turn off the controller.

This article explains how to reset a PS5 controller. Instructions apply to the official Sony DualSense controller for the PS5.

How to Factory Reset a PS5 Controller

Follow these steps to reset a PS5 controller to factory settings:

  1. Unplug the controller from your PS5 and turn off the console. 

  2. Look for a small hole on the back of the PS5 controller. Insert a straightened paper clip or another pointy object into the hole and press the button inside for five seconds.

    The reset hole in a DualSense controller for PS5

  3. Resync the controller with the console. Connect the controller to the PS5 using the included USB-C cable and press the PS button.

    The PS button on the PlayStation 5 controller

Why Reset a PS5 DualSense Controller?

Try resetting your PS5 to fix the following problems:

  • The PS5 controller won't pair with the PS5 console.
  • The Bluetooth connectivity isn't working, preventing wireless play.
  • You want to pair the PS5 controller with another device.

How to Turn a PS5 Controller On and Off

Turning the controller on and off, also known as soft reset, can sometimes fix connection issues. Shutting down the console will also turn off the controller. If you have two controllers, you can use one to turn off the other controller.

  1. Unplug the controller you want to turn off from the console.

  2. With the other controller, press the PS button to go to the Home screen, and then press the PS button again to open the Control Center menu at the bottom of the screen.

    The PS button on the PlayStation 5 DualSense controller

  3. Select Accessories (the controller icon) at the bottom of the screen.

    The Accessories heading in the control bar

  4. Select the controller you want to turn off.

    A controller under the PS5 Accessories menu

  5. Select Turn Off. The LED light on the controller should turn off.

    The "Turn Off" command

Still Having Problems With Your PS5 Controller?

If resetting the controller doesn't solve your problem, try these fixes:

  • Try connecting the controller with a different USB-C cable.
  • Make sure there are no objects between the controller and console that could interfere with the Bluetooth controller.
  • Update the system firmware. Go to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings > Update System Software.
  • Visit Sony's PlayStation Fix and Replace page to see if you can get it repaired.
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