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Playing games on your PC can be a lot of fun, and if you’re a fan of console gaming, you might want to connect your PS4 controller to your PC. Windows 8.1 is a popular operating system that offers compatibility with the PS4 controller, making it easy to play your favorite PC games with the controller you already know and love. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of connecting your PS4 controller to your PC running Windows 8.1.
Video Tutorial:
Why You Need to Connect Your PS4 Controller to PC
There are several reasons why you might want to connect your PS4 controller to your PC. Firstly, using a PS4 controller can give you a more immersive gaming experience, as it offers better ergonomics and tactile feedback compared to a keyboard and mouse. Additionally, if you’re already comfortable with using a PS4 controller, connecting it to your PC can save you from having to learn a new input method.
Moreover, some games are best played with a controller, especially if they were initially designed for consoles. By connecting your PS4 controller to your PC, you can enjoy these games the way they were intended to be played. Lastly, if you have multiple controllers, you can play local multiplayer games with your friends and family on your PC, providing hours of fun and bonding time together.
Method 1: Via USB Cable
One of the easiest ways to connect your PS4 controller to your PC is by using a USB cable. Follow the steps below to get started:
- Connect one end of the USB cable to your PS4 controller.
- Connect the other end of the USB cable to an available USB port on your PC.
- Windows 8.1 should automatically detect the PS4 controller and install the necessary drivers.
- Once the installation is complete, you can start using your PS4 controller to play games on your PC.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Easy and straightforward connection using a USB cable. | 1. Requires a USB cable, limiting mobility during gameplay. |
| 2. No additional software installation required. | 2. Limited range of movement due to the cable. |
| 3. Works well with most PC games. | 3. Cannot charge the PS4 controller while connected. |
Method 2: Using Bluetooth
If your PC has Bluetooth capabilities, you can connect your PS4 controller wirelessly using Bluetooth. Follow the steps below to connect your controller via Bluetooth:
- On your PC, go to the Start menu and open the Settings app.
- Click on "Devices" and then select "Bluetooth & other devices".
- Make sure the Bluetooth toggle is turned on.
- Press and hold the PS button and the Share button on your PS4 controller simultaneously until the light bar starts flashing.
- In the Bluetooth settings on your PC, click on "Add Bluetooth or other device".
- Select "Bluetooth" and wait for your PC to detect the PS4 controller.
- Once the PS4 controller is detected, click on it to connect.
- Windows 8.1 should automatically install the necessary drivers.
- Once the installation is complete, you can start using your PS4 controller to play games on your PC.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Wireless connection provides more freedom of movement. | 1. Requires a PC with built-in Bluetooth or a Bluetooth dongle. |
| 2. No need for a USB cable, allowing for a cleaner setup. | 2. May require additional steps for Bluetooth pairing and driver installation. |
| 3. Ideal for gaming setups where wires can be a hassle. | 3. May have increased input latency compared to a wired connection. |
Method 3: Via DS4Windows
If you’re unable to connect your PS4 controller using the previous methods, you can try using DS4Windows, a third-party software that emulates an Xbox 360 controller to make your PS4 controller compatible with Windows. Follow the steps below to connect your PS4 controller via DS4Windows:
- Download and install DS4Windows from the official website.
- Connect your PS4 controller to your PC using a USB cable.
- Run DS4Windows and follow the on-screen instructions to set up your PS4 controller.
- Once the setup is complete, you can disconnect the USB cable and use your PS4 controller wirelessly.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Provides compatibility with PS4 controllers that are not natively supported. | 1. Requires additional software installation and configuration. |
| 2. Can be used to customize controller settings and mappings. | 2. May have increased input latency compared to a native connection. |
| 3. Works well with most PC games. | 3. Requires periodic updates to ensure compatibility with the latest Windows updates. |
Method 4: Via Steam
If you’re a Steam user, you can easily connect your PS4 controller to your PC using the Steam client. Steam has built-in support for the PS4 controller, making it a convenient method for connecting your controller. Follow the steps below to connect your PS4 controller via Steam:
- Launch the Steam client on your PC and log in to your account.
- Go to the "Steam" menu and select "Settings".
- In the Settings window, click on "Controller" and then select "General Controller Settings".
- Make sure "PlayStation Configuration Support" is enabled.
- Connect your PS4 controller to your PC using a USB cable.
- Windows 8.1 should automatically detect the PS4 controller and install the necessary drivers.
- Once the installation is complete, you can start using your PS4 controller with Steam games.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 1. Seamless integration with the Steam client. | 1. Requires the Steam client to be installed and running. |
| 2. No need for additional software installation. | 2. Limited to Steam games and applications. |
| 3. Allows for customization and configuration of controller settings. | 3. May have increased input latency compared to a native connection. |
What to Do If You Can’t Connect Your PS4 Controller
If you encounter any issues while trying to connect your PS4 controller to your PC, don’t worry. Here are some fixes you can try:
- Make sure your PS4 controller is charged and turned on.
- Restart your PC and try connecting the controller again.
- Update the firmware of your PS4 controller.
- Try a different USB cable or USB port.
- Update the drivers for your PC’s Bluetooth adapter.
- Check for any conflicting software or drivers that may be preventing the connection.
Bonus Tips
Here are some bonus tips to enhance your PS4 controller experience on your PC:
- Use a controller charging dock to keep your PS4 controllers charged and ready for gaming.
- Experiment with different controller settings and mappings to find the configuration that suits your playstyle.
- Consider using a controller grip or skin to improve comfort and grip during long gaming sessions.
5 FAQs
Q1: Can I connect multiple PS4 controllers to my PC?
A: Yes, you can connect multiple PS4 controllers to your PC using the same methods mentioned above. However, the number of controllers you can connect simultaneously may depend on the capabilities of your PC and the game you’re playing.
Q2: Do I need to disconnect my PS4 controller from my PS4 console before connecting it to my PC?
A: No, you don’t need to disconnect your PS4 controller from your PS4 console before connecting it to your PC. The PS4 controller can be paired with multiple devices, allowing you to switch between them seamlessly.
Q3: Will connecting my PS4 controller to my PC affect its compatibility with my PS4 console?
A: No, connecting your PS4 controller to your PC will not affect its compatibility with your PS4 console. You can still use your PS4 controller with your console as usual after connecting it to your PC.
Q4: Can I use a PS5 controller to play games on my PC running Windows 8.1?
A: Yes, you can use a PS5 controller to play games on your PC running Windows 8.1. The PS5 controller is compatible with Windows and can be connected to your PC using the same methods mentioned in this blog post.
Q5: Are there any specific settings I need to adjust in games to use a PS4 controller on my PC?
A: In most cases, games that have native controller support should automatically detect and configure the PS4 controller. However, you may need to adjust the control settings in some games to match the button layout of the PS4 controller.
Final Thoughts
Connecting your PS4 controller to your PC running Windows 8.1 can greatly enhance your gaming experience. Whether you prefer a wired or wireless connection, there are multiple methods available to suit your needs. With the right setup, you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite PC games with the comfort and familiarity of your PS4 controller. Remember to troubleshoot any connection issues using the fixes mentioned in this blog post, and try out the bonus tips to further customize your controller experience. Happy gaming!