The PlayStation 5 has revolutionized gaming with its next-generation graphics, fast load times, and immersive gaming experience. But what happens when you want to connect multiple controllers to a single console for multiplayer gaming? Fortunately, connecting multiple PS5 controllers to a single console is relatively straightforward. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of connecting a PS5 controller to another PS5 console.
Preparing Your Controllers and Consoles
Before you start, make sure you have the necessary equipment:
- Two or more PS5 consoles
- Two or more PS5 controllers (DualSense or DualSense Edge)
- A stable internet connection (for wireless connectivity)
- A USB-C cable (for wired connectivity)
It’s essential to charge both controllers before attempting to connect them to the same console. Ensure that the console you’re trying to connect to is also turned on and has enough power to support multiple controllers.
Method 1: Wireless Connectivity
Connecting your PS5 controllers wirelessly is a convenient way to enjoy multiplayer gaming without the hassle of cables.
Enabling Bluetooth on Your Console
To connect your PS5 controllers wirelessly, follow these steps:
- Go to your console’s Settings > Accessories > Bluetooth Accessories.
- Click on Add New Accessory or Set Up Accessory.
- Your console will start searching for nearby Bluetooth devices.
Paring Your Controllers
Once your console is searching for Bluetooth devices, follow these steps to pair your controllers:
- On your controller, press and hold the PS and Share buttons simultaneously until the LED lights on the controller start flashing.
- The console will detect your controller and prompt you to select it.
- Click on the detected controller to pair it with your console.
- Repeat this process for each additional controller you want to connect.
Managing Connected Controllers
After you’ve paired all your controllers, manage them by:
- Going to Settings > Accessories > Bluetooth Accessories.
- Selecting the connected controller you want to manage.
Disconnecting a Controller
If you want to disconnect a controller from your console, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings > Accessories > Bluetooth Accessories.
- Select the connected controller you want to disconnect.
- Click on Disconnect.
Method 2: Wired Connectivity
Wired connectivity is a reliable option when you don’t have access to a stable internet connection or prefer a more secure connection.
Connecting Your Controllers Using a USB-C Cable
To connect your controllers using a USB-C cable, follow these steps:
- Plug the USB-C cable into the USB-C port on your controller and the other end into a free USB port on your console.
- Your console will automatically detect the connected controller.
- Repeat this process for each additional controller you want to connect.
Identifying and Managing Connected Controllers
Once you’ve connected all your controllers, identify them by going to:
- Settings > Accessories > USB Accessories.
- Your connected controllers will be listed under Connected Devices.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter issues connecting your PS5 controllers, try the following:
Restarting Your Console
Sometimes, a simple reboot can resolve connectivity issues.
- Go to Power > Restart PS5.
Resetting Your Controllers
If a restart doesn’t resolve the issue, try resetting your controllers.
- Press and hold the PS and Share buttons simultaneously for 10 seconds to reset your controller.
Updating Your Console and Controllers
Ensure that both your console and controllers are running the latest software. You can update them by:
- Going to Settings > System > System Software Update for your console.
- Connecting your controller to your console and going to Settings > Accessories > Controller Update.
Limitations and Best Practices
Keep in mind that connecting multiple PS5 controllers has some limitations and best practices.
- Maximum Supported Controllers: Your PS5 console can support a maximum of 16 controllers.
- Interference and Signal Strength: Wireless connectivity may be affected by interference from other devices or physical barriers.
- Wired vs. Wireless: Wired connectivity is generally more stable and less prone to interference.
Using the Best Connectivity Option for Your Setup
Choose the best connectivity option for your setup:
- Wired: If you’re playing games that require precise timing and low latency, or have interference concerns.
- Wireless: If you prefer a more convenient and flexible gaming experience.
In conclusion, connecting a PS5 controller to another PS5 console is a straightforward process. By following the methods outlined above, you can enjoy seamless multiplayer gaming with your friends and family.
How do I connect multiple PS5 controllers to my console?
To connect multiple PS5 controllers to your console, you can use two methods: wired or wireless. To connect via a wired connection, use a USB cable and plug it directly into your PS5. For wireless connection, navigate to the Accessories menu and select ‘Bluetooth devices’ or press and hold the PS button and then select ‘Accessories’ and ‘Bluetooth devices.’
In the Bluetooth devices menu, put your controller in pairing mode by pressing the PS button and the Share button simultaneously until the LEDs on the controller begin to flash blue. Select ‘Wireless Controller’ from the available devices on the PS5 and confirm the pairing. This method works for up to 4 controllers.
What is the maximum number of controllers I can connect to a PS5?
The maximum number of controllers that you can connect to a PS5 is four. This means that you can play local co-op games or enjoy other multiplayer games with friends and family in the same room, right on your console.
However, it’s essential to note that the performance of the controllers might be affected when multiple devices are connected. For instance, lag or disconnections may occur in games that demand rapid responses or extremely accurate inputs.
How do I disconnect multiple controllers from a PS5?
To disconnect multiple PS5 controllers from the console, you can do so individually or reset all of the connected devices. For individual disconnection, go to the ‘Accessories’ menu and select ‘Bluetooth devices,’ and then choose the controller you want to disconnect. Press the ‘X’ button on your active controller to confirm the disconnection.
Alternatively, to disconnect and reset all connected devices, go to ‘Settings’ > ‘Accessories’ > ‘Bluetooth devices’ > ‘Clear Bluetooth Device List.’ This option resets all devices, including headsets and keyboards. Note that you’ll have to pair all controllers again once they have been disconnected.
Can I connect multiple controllers to a PS5 using a charging station dock?
Unfortunately, a charging station dock is not a viable way to connect multiple PS5 controllers to your console, especially for gaming. Although a charging station can charge multiple controllers simultaneously, it does not automatically connect them to the PS5.
However, using a charging dock, can help keep the area organized and free of clutter, and it can help ensure that your controllers are always charged. After charging, you must manually pair or connect your devices using the methods described above.
Is it possible to use a charging cable to connect multiple controllers?
While a charging cable can be used to connect a single controller to the PS5, it is not designed to connect multiple controllers to the console. Using a charging cable connects a controller to the PS5 only if no other connection is active; it does not support multi-controller connections.
When you connect multiple controllers with charging cables to a USB hub, and then connect the hub to the PS5, they will still not work as active controllers. This setup is intended for charging purposes only.
Can multiple controllers interfere with Wi-Fi performance on my PS5?
Yes, using multiple controllers connected wirelessly to your PS5 can interfere with the console’s Wi-Fi performance. This occurs because all wireless devices use radio frequency to communicate with the console. A wireless controller sends data packets continuously, while playing games or navigating through the PS5 menu.
However, interference largely depends on the quality of your router, the distance between your router and your PS5, and other environmental factors. Using an Ethernet cable to connect your PS5 directly to the router can reduce the risk of such interference and improve overall gaming experience.
Can I connect a PS4 controller to a PS5?
The PS4 DualShock controller partially supports the PS5. However, some features, such as haptic feedback, might not work as intended on the newer console. When a PS4 controller is connected to a PS5, it still works with backwards-compatible PS4 games but may not be fully optimized for those title’s control schemes.
To connect a PS4 controller, use either the micro-USB cable or put the controller into pairing mode by sharing the same options as the DualSense: locating the Reset button (hidden near the left-hand L2 shoulder button). A USB-Bluetooth adapter or third-party devices also work but should have compatibility for console connectivity.