How To Fix Controller Not Working or Connecting on Windows PC - Complete Guide

Introduction

Fixing a game controller that won't connect or work on your Windows PC can be frustrating. This guide provides step-by-step solutions for both Bluetooth connectivity and hardware recognition issues, ensuring a seamless gaming experience.

Connecting Your Controller via Bluetooth

• Access Bluetooth Settings:

  • Go to 'Bluetooth & Devices' in Windows Settings.

  • Ensure Bluetooth is turned on.

• Pair Your Controller:

  • For PS5 controllers, hold the 'Create' and 'PS' buttons until the light bar blinks.

  • If the controller was previously paired, remove it from the list of Bluetooth devices.

  • Click "Add Device" and select your controller from the list to pair.

Windows Settings > Bluetooth & Devices

Solving Bluetooth Connection Issues

• Run Bluetooth Troubleshooter:

  • Go to 'System' settings.

  • Navigate to 'Troubleshoot' and then 'Other Troubleshooters'.

  • Run the Bluetooth troubleshooter to identify and fix connectivity issues.

System Settings > Troubleshoot > Other Troubleshooters

Updating Controller Drivers via Device Manager

• Use a USB Cable for Connection:

  • Access Device Manager from the Windows search bar.

  • Expand “Mice and other pointing devices”.

  • Right-click and select “Scan for hardware changes”.

  • Update the driver by right-clicking the recognized controller and selecting “Update Driver”.

Device Manager > Mice and other pointing devices

Configuring Steam for Controller Compatibility

• Adjust Steam Controller Settings:

  • Open Steam and go to the top-left corner menu.

  • Navigate to 'Controller' settings.

  • Verify your controller is detected.

  • Run a functionality test by selecting 'Begin Test'.

  • Enable 'Steam Input' for your controller.

Steam Settings > Controller

Game-Specific Controller Settings:

• Right-click the game in your Steam library and select 'Properties'.

• Go to the 'Controller' tab to customize settings for that game.

Completing these steps ensures your controller is ready for gaming. Restart your PC to apply all changes and enjoy a seamless gaming session.

Game Properties > Controller > Override for (Game)

• How do I connect my PS5 controller to my Windows PC?

  To connect a PS5 controller to a Windows PC, enable Bluetooth on your PC, then press and hold the 'Create' and 'PS' button on your controller until the light bar blinks. In your PC's Bluetooth settings, select to add a new device and choose your controller from the list.

• What should I do if my controller doesn't connect via Bluetooth to my PC?

  If your controller doesn't connect, run the Bluetooth troubleshooter by navigating to 'System' > 'Troubleshoot' > 'Other Troubleshooters', and select the Bluetooth troubleshooter. This process identifies and fixes common Bluetooth connection issues.

• How can I update my controller's driver on my PC?

  Open Device Manager, expand “Mice and other pointing devices”, and select “Scan for hardware changes” to recognize your controller. Right-click the controller device and choose “Update Driver”, then select “Search automatically for drivers” to allow Windows to find and install the latest driver.

• How do I set up my controller for Steam games?

  In Steam, go to 'Controller' settings and enable 'Steam Input'. For individual games, access the game's properties from your Steam library, navigate to the 'Controller' tab, and adjust the input settings as needed.

• What steps should I take if my controller is recognized but not working in games?

  Ensure the controller is properly configured in Steam's 'Controller' settings and the specific game's controller settings. If issues persist, restarting your PC can help apply the settings and resolve connectivity problems.