PS5 Controller Drift: 11 Ways to Fix It
Quick Fix
If your PS5 controller has stick drift, try this quick fix: Reset the controller by inserting a pin into the small hole on the back for 5 seconds. Then clean around the analog sticks with compressed air or isopropyl alcohol. Go to Settings > Controllers > Deadzone and increase the deadzone slightly. These steps fix minor drift without opening the controller.
What Is PS5 Controller Drift?
PS5 controller drift (DualSense drift) occurs when your character moves on screen even though you’re not touching the analog stick. You might notice your camera slowly rotating, your character walking by itself, or menus scrolling without input. It’s one of the most frustrating issues PS5 owners face.
The problem is caused by wear on the analog stick potentiometers, dust and debris inside the controller, or software calibration issues. Sony has faced class action lawsuits over this problem, which affects many DualSense controllers. Fortunately, there are several fixes you can try before replacing your controller.
Method 1: Reset Your DualSense Controller
A controller reset clears temporary glitches and recalibrates the sticks.
- Turn off your PS5 completely (not rest mode)
- Find the small reset hole on the back of the controller (near the L2 button)
- Insert a pin, paperclip, or SIM tool into the hole
- Press and hold the button inside for 5 seconds
- Release and wait 10 seconds
- Connect the controller to PS5 with a USB cable
- Press the PS button to re-pair
- Test the analog sticks
Method 2: Clean Around the Analog Sticks
Dust and debris are often the cause of drift. Cleaning can fix the problem without opening the controller.
Using Compressed Air:
- Turn off the controller
- Hold the can of compressed air upright
- Gently pull the analog stick to one side
- Spray short bursts around the base of the stick
- Rotate the stick and spray from all angles
- Repeat for the other analog stick
- Let it dry for a few minutes
Using Isopropyl Alcohol:
- Use 90% or higher isopropyl alcohol
- Dip a cotton swab in the alcohol
- Gently clean around the base of the analog stick
- Move the stick around while cleaning to get alcohol inside
- Let it dry completely (15-20 minutes) before using
Method 3: Adjust the Deadzone Settings
Increasing the deadzone makes the controller ignore small, unintended movements.
PS5 System Settings:
- Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers
- Look for Analog Stick Deadzone or sensitivity settings
- Increase the deadzone slightly
- Test in a game to see if drift is reduced
In-Game Settings:
Many games have their own deadzone settings:
- Go to the game’s Settings > Controller
- Look for “Deadzone” or “Stick Sensitivity”
- Increase left/right stick deadzone until drift stops
- Common in shooters like Call of Duty, Fortnite, Apex Legends
Method 4: Update Controller Firmware
Sony releases firmware updates that can improve controller performance.
- Connect your DualSense to PS5 with a USB cable
- Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers
- Select “Wireless Controller Device Software”
- If an update is available, install it
- Keep the controller connected until update completes
- Test the sticks after updating
Method 5: Update PS5 System Software
System updates can include controller calibration improvements.
- Go to Settings > System > System Software
- Select “System Software Update and Settings”
- Choose “Update System Software”
- Install any available updates
- Restart your PS5
- Test the controller
Method 6: Recalibrate on PC
You can use a PC to check and calibrate your DualSense controller.
- Connect DualSense to PC with USB cable
- Press Windows + R, type
joy.cpl, press Enter - Select your controller and click Properties
- Go to the Settings tab
- Click Calibrate and follow the wizard
- Leave sticks centered when prompted
- Complete calibration and test
Using DS4Windows:
- Download DS4Windows from the official site
- Connect your DualSense
- Open DS4Windows and go to controller settings
- Adjust deadzone settings
- Test with the on-screen stick visualization
Method 7: Open and Clean Inside (Advanced)
If external cleaning didn’t work, you may need to clean inside the controller. Warning: This may void your warranty.
What You Need:
- Small Phillips screwdriver
- Plastic pry tool
- Compressed air
- Isopropyl alcohol (90%+)
- Cotton swabs
Steps:
- Remove the 4 screws on the back of the controller
- Carefully pry the back cover off (start near triggers)
- Locate the analog stick modules
- Spray compressed air around the stick mechanisms
- Use alcohol-dipped cotton swab to clean the potentiometers
- Let dry completely
- Reassemble carefully
- Test the controller
Watch a YouTube tutorial specific to DualSense teardown before attempting this.
Method 8: Replace the Analog Stick Module
If the stick is physically worn out, replacement is the permanent fix.
- Purchase replacement analog stick modules (ALPS brand recommended)
- Open the controller (see Method 7)
- Desolder the old analog stick module
- Solder in the new module
- Reassemble and test
Note: This requires soldering skills. Consider a professional repair service if you’re not experienced.
Method 9: Use Warranty or Sony Repair
If your controller is under warranty, Sony should repair or replace it.
Check Warranty:
- Standard warranty is 1 year from purchase
- Keep your receipt as proof of purchase
- Extended warranty if purchased separately
Contact Sony Support:
- Visit playstation.com/support
- Select Hardware & Repairs
- Choose DualSense Controller
- Describe the drift issue
- Request repair or replacement
- Ship the controller to Sony (they often cover shipping)
Method 10: Try a Different USB Cable
Using the controller wired can help determine if it’s a Bluetooth issue.
- Connect DualSense to PS5 with a USB-C cable
- Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers
- Set “Communication Method” to USB Cable
- Test if drift still occurs
- If drift stops, the issue might be Bluetooth interference
Method 11: Reduce Bluetooth Interference
Wireless interference can sometimes cause erratic controller behavior.
- Move other wireless devices away from the PS5
- Turn off nearby Bluetooth devices temporarily
- Move the PS5 away from WiFi routers
- Ensure clear line of sight between controller and console
- Reduce distance between controller and PS5
Preventing Future Drift
- Don’t push analog sticks too hard
- Avoid eating while gaming (crumbs cause debris buildup)
- Store controller in a clean, dry place
- Clean around sticks monthly with compressed air
- Don’t leave controller on the floor where dust accumulates
- Consider a controller cover/skin for protection
FAQ
Why do PS5 controllers get drift so easily?
DualSense controllers use potentiometer-based analog sticks that wear down over time. The design prioritizes responsiveness over durability. Heavy use, especially in games requiring constant stick movement, accelerates wear. Sony has acknowledged the issue but hasn’t redesigned the mechanism yet.
Does Sony fix controller drift for free?
Sony repairs or replaces controllers with drift under the 1-year warranty at no cost. After warranty expires, you’ll need to pay for repairs. Some regions have extended consumer protection laws that may cover you longer. Contact PlayStation Support with your proof of purchase.
Can I fix PS5 controller drift without opening it?
Yes, many cases of drift can be fixed by: resetting the controller, cleaning around the sticks with compressed air or isopropyl alcohol, increasing deadzone settings, or updating firmware. Try these methods first before opening the controller.
How long do PS5 controllers last before drift?
It varies widely. Some controllers develop drift within months, while others last years. Heavy gaming (4+ hours daily) accelerates wear. Studies suggest the analog stick mechanisms are rated for about 2 million cycles, which dedicated gamers can reach in 6-12 months.
Is it worth repairing a drifting PS5 controller?
If under warranty, definitely get it repaired free. Out of warranty, professional repair costs $30-50, while a new controller costs $70+. DIY repair (replacing analog modules) costs about $10-15 in parts. If you’re comfortable with soldering, DIY is the most economical option.
Do third-party PS5 controllers have drift issues?
Third-party controllers can also develop drift since most use similar analog stick mechanisms. However, some higher-end controllers use Hall effect sensors instead of potentiometers, which don’t wear out the same way. Brands like GuliKit offer drift-free alternatives.
