I. Introduction
Many gamers prefer to use a PS4 controller over a keyboard and mouse because of the more natural feel it provides. So, it’s not uncommon for people to want to connect their PS4 controller to their PC to play their favorite games. In this article, we’ll show you how to connect a PS4 controller to your PC. We will also compare it to other controllers, discuss common issues and present game recommendations that you can play with a PS4 controller.
II. Step-by-Step Guide
Firstly, you need to download DS4Windows, which is a program that allows the PS4 controller to work on a Windows operating system. Here are the steps:
- Go to the official DS4Windows website
- Click “Download Now” and save the zip file to your computer
- Extract the files to a location of your choice
- Open the DS4Windows.exe file and follow the installation instructions
Once you have installed DS4Windows, you can follow these steps to connect your PS4 controller to your PC:
- Make sure the controller is turned off
- Connect the controller to your PC with a USB cable
- The DS4Windows program should automatically recognize the controller
- Press the PS button on the controller to turn it on
- Wait for the controller to connect to your PC
- You’re now ready to start playing your favorite games!
We’ve included screenshots to make the process even easier:
III. Video Tutorial
To help you connect your PS4 controller to your PC, we’ve found an excellent video tutorial from GameSpot:
Make sure to follow along with on-screen instructions in the video.
IV. Comparison with Other Controllers
In comparison, controllers for Xbox One or Switch can be more accessible to connect to a PC. Xbox One controllers come with built-in software that easily connects incompatible Bluetooth, whereas Switch controllers can connect to Windows operating systems via Bluetooth without third-party software.
However, what makes the PS4 controller more favorable is that it comes with an in-built audio jack and a touchpad, providing more functionality. The touchpad can serve various purposes like fast-forwarding movies or bringing up the map in games. It feels natural in hand and has excellent battery life.
Overall, the PS4 controller is the best controller if you plan on playing PC games from your couch, while Xbox One and Switch controllers are more convenient if you want something that is easier to connect without third-party software.
V. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Some common issues that you might face when connecting your PS4 controller to your PC are controller not connecting, controller being recognized as an audio device rather than a functioning controller, or rumble not working.
These issues can be resolved by checking if the DS4Windows and PS4 controller drivers have been installed correctly, checking the USB port, or resetting the DualShock 4 controller.
If you face any of the above problems, refer to the troubleshooting guide on the official DS4Windows website.
VI. Game Recommendations
Here are some popular games that work well with a PS4 controller on a PC:
- Dark Souls III: This infamously difficult action RPG is a great choice for a PS4 controller with its fantastic gamepad support.
- Resident Evil 2: Play this classic survival horror remake with elegant accessibility solutions for PS4 controllers
- Devil May Cry 5: The PS4 controller is the perfect way to experience the excellent mechanics of this action-packed game.
We’ve provided gameplay footage of Dark Souls III below:
VII. Conclusion
Connecting a PS4 controller to your PC is easy and opens up a world of possibilities. The DS4Windows program and its step-by-step set-up make it easy to use, while its compatibility with most games makes it an excellent choice. We hope this guide has helped you, and we encourage users to try different games and leave comments about their experience.