How to reconnect your PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5 controller

Photo by Vjeran Pavic / The Verge

The PS4 and PS5 both have wireless controllers that rely on a single method for connecting and resyncing: a cable. While Microsoft and Nintendo have used wireless pairing on their systems for several generations, Sony sticks to its roots. When it comes to the PS4 and PS5 controllers, you have to bust out their MicroUSB and USB-C cables, even though they can be used with other devices.

If your controller isn't turning on, here's what to do.

Plug it in

A jingle from the '90s that says "plug it in!" can be used to solve a lot of your PS4 controller headaches. Did you press the button in the middle of the controller, but not see any lights? Charge it by plugging it in. Did you see the lights flashing when you turned it on? Plug it into your console and press the PS3 button again. Did you notice that the LEDs on the controller went solid when you turned on the controller, but the console didn't respond? Plug it in and press the PS button. If you haven't connected to a different device in a while, it's time to go back to your console.

Photo by Vjeran Pavic / The Verge

The reliance on a wire to connect a controller to a console is archaic, but it is simple. Hit the PS button if you want it to sort itself out. If you or someone in your household was using that controller on another device, you should keep that in mind.

Need a recharge?

If you haven't played in a while and the controller isn't turning on, it might be time to give it some juice.

If your controller doesn't turn on in the first place, there are two ways to get it to work again. Plug it into your PS4 or PS5 while it's powered on or in rest mode, or use the same type of wall charger you use for a phone or tablets.

Image: James Bareham / The Verge

The controller will light up with an orange light when it's plugged in. If they aren't, it's possible the cable doesn't have enough power to charge the device. The dualShock 4 pulls 800mA and the dualsense 1500mA requires fivevolts. It's a good idea to use the same cable that came with your console if you're unsure.

It's possible that one day Sony will join everyone else in the world of wireless controllers, but until then, keep that old wire handy.