The PlayStation 5 (PS5) is gaining popularity among gamers worldwide. It is a reliable gaming console, often compared to Xbox. Gaming controllers offer many advantages over mouse and keyboard gaming. You get the feel of playing better, the design is simpler and more efficient.
However, some people may struggle with connecting PS5 with their PC. Although pairing up the console with a PC is pretty simple, the setup can take some time.
In this article, we will discuss the step-by-step process of connecting your PC and PS5 to simplify things.
Pairing using Bluetooth
Bluetooth is the preferred way of connection for people who prefer wireless gaming. Pairing up your PS5 via Bluetooth is a simple process:
- Open the settings on your PC and go to Bluetooth and devices.
- Click on Add Device at the top right of the screen.
- Choose Bluetooth on the window that pops up.
- On your Playstation 5 controller, hold the Playstation and share buttons together until the touchpad lights are on.
- Your PS5 should appear as a Wireless controller on your PC screen
- Select it and wait for it to be connected.
If you face any trouble in this part, you may have a problem with wireless connections on your PC. Restarting the device may help in such cases.
Pairing using a USB cable
This is by far the simplest process of connecting your PS5 to your PC.
Just connect your PC’s USB port and the PS5 USB port with a USB cable.
Your devices will be connected.
Setting up the controller with your PC
There are different methods of setting your controller with your personal computer:
Remote Play via PlayStation Remote Play App
An official Remote Play app for Windows and macOS is available for download on the official PlayStation website. You can download and install the app from there. Then, connect your PS5 and PC to the same network.
Sign in with your PlayStation Network (PSN) account on the app and follow the on-screen instructions to connect to your PS5.
This method allows you to play PS5 games on your PC screen without the need for additional streaming software.
It is easy to set up and use and needs no external hardware equipment for the process.
Steam Link App
Steam, a leading PC gaming platform, offers excellent game controller support.
It allows the setup of the DualSense controller, which may not be well-supported by default on Windows. Setting up the DualSense controller is simple because Steam has a dedicated configuration tool. This also means that a wide range of games in Steam’s extensive library may also work with the controller.
Moreover, you can extend this compatibility to non-Steam games by adding them to your Steam library.
However, this is limited to the streaming games available on the Steam platform and may not support non-Steam games.
PS5 Remote Play via Smartphone/Tablet
This method allows you to use your smartphone or tablet as a medium to stream your PS5 games to your PC.
You need to download the PS Remote Play app on your mobile device and configure it with your PS5. Consider using a screen mirroring or casting tool to display your mobile device’s screen on your PC.
After this, you will be able to play PS5 games on your PC screen.
Although there are chances of facing some input lag and limited screen time compared to PC.
Capture Card
The last option is to use a hardware extension for the setup. For high-quality streaming and recording, you can use an external capture card such as Elgato HD60 S AVerMedia Live Gamer HD.
Just connect your PS5 to the capture card using HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) cables and then connect the capture card to your PC via USB.
Then, open a streaming software like OBS and configure it to capture the video feed from the external capture card.
This method offers low-latency streaming and the ability to customize your setup extensively.
However, the additional hardware setup may be a little time-consuming and expensive.
Checking the connections
It is essential to test your setup to ensure a smooth playing experience.
First, check if all buttons, triggers, analog sticks, and other inputs work as expected.
Observe if you experience any input lag or delays in button responses.
It is best to play a few matches to ensure your controller’s inputs are responsive and reliable, especially in fast-paced games.
Also, ensure that your PC has the latest DualSense controller and Bluetooth or USB receiver drivers.
Keeping your drivers up to date can resolve potential compatibility issues.
Conclusion
PS5 offers a comprehensive PC gaming experience. Pairing and connecting the controller with your PC may seem daunting, but it can be made easier.
Connect your PC with PS5 using a USB cable or Bluetooth.
Then, you have several options for setting up your controller with your PC. The PlayStation Remote Play app lets you stream your PS5 games directly to your PC screen.
On the other hand, the Steam Link App offers excellent controller support for a wide range of games, including non-Steam titles.
If you prefer using your smartphone or tablet, the PS5 Remote Play via Smartphone/Tablet allows you to stream games to your PC screen.
External capture cards offer a professional solution for those seeking high-quality streaming and recording.
In addition to this, ensure your setup works flawlessly. Test your controller’s inputs, check for input lag, and play a few matches to confirm responsiveness.