PS4 Controller Not Connecting? 10 Fixes

Quick Fix

PS4 controller not connecting? Reset the controller: find the small hole on the back near the L2 button, insert a pin for 5 seconds. Then connect controller to PS4 with USB cable and press the PS button. The light bar should turn blue when connected.

Why Won’t PS4 Controller Connect?

PS4 controllers fail to connect due to Bluetooth interference, low battery, corrupted pairing data, USB cable issues, or hardware failure. The controller uses Bluetooth when wireless and requires a data-capable USB cable for wired connection.

Method 1: Reset the Controller

Clear corrupted pairing data.

1. Turn off your PS4
2. Find reset button (small hole on back)
3. Insert paperclip or pin
4. Hold for 5 seconds
5. Release and connect via USB to PS4
6. Press PS button to pair

Method 2: Use USB Cable

Bypass Bluetooth issues.

1. Get a data-capable USB cable (not charge-only)
2. Connect controller to PS4
3. Press PS button
4. Light bar should turn blue
5. If it works, Bluetooth may be the issue

Method 3: Charge the Controller

Dead battery prevents connection.

1. Connect controller to PS4 or USB charger
2. Wait at least 30 minutes
3. Orange light means charging
4. Try connecting after charging
5. Fully dead batteries need longer charge

Method 4: Forget and Re-pair

Remove old pairing data.

1. Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices
2. Find your controller in the list
3. Press Options and select Forget Device
4. Connect controller via USB cable
5. Press PS button to pair fresh

Method 5: Check for Interference

Other devices block Bluetooth.

• Move other Bluetooth devices away
• Turn off nearby wireless devices
• Move closer to PS4 (within 10 feet)
• Remove obstacles between controller and PS4
• Turn off other controllers

Method 6: Try Different USB Port

USB ports can fail.

1. Unplug controller
2. Try the other USB port on PS4
3. Press PS button
4. If it works, first port may be damaged

Method 7: Boot PS4 in Safe Mode

Safe Mode forces USB connection.

1. Turn off PS4 completely
2. Hold power button until second beep (7 seconds)
3. Connect controller via USB
4. Press PS button
5. Select Restart PS4

Method 8: Rebuild Database

Fix corrupted system files.

1. Boot into Safe Mode (see Method 7)
2. Select Rebuild Database
3. Wait for process to complete
4. This won’t delete games
5. Try controller after restart

Method 9: Update PS4 System Software

Updates fix controller bugs.

1. Connect controller via USB
2. Go to Settings > System Software Update
3. Download and install updates
4. Restart PS4
5. Test wireless connection

Method 10: Test on Another Device

Confirm if controller is faulty.

1. Try controller on another PS4
2. Or pair with PC via Bluetooth/USB
3. If works elsewhere, PS4 Bluetooth may be faulty
4. If doesn’t work anywhere, controller is damaged

FAQ

Why is my PS4 controller blinking white?

White blinking means the controller is trying to connect but can’t find the PS4. Reset the controller with the back button, connect via USB, and press PS button. The light should turn blue when connected.

Why won’t my PS4 controller charge?

First, try a different USB cable – many cables are charge-only. Use the original Sony cable or a data-capable cable. Also try different USB ports and outlets. If still not charging, the battery may need replacement.

Can I use PS4 controller while charging?

Yes, you can play while the controller charges via USB cable. The orange light bar indicates charging. Once fully charged, you can disconnect and use wirelessly.