To connect multiple controllers to one PlayStation, pair each controller with the console, then join the right player profile in your game. Both PS5 and PS4 support up to four controllers at the same time. On PS5, pair the first DualSense with a USB cable, then add more from the Bluetooth Accessories screen. On PS4, connect each DUALSHOCK 4 by USB and press the PS button. The game itself must support local multiplayer for everyone to play together on one screen.
This guide covers PS5 DualSense and PS4 DUALSHOCK 4 controllers, wired and wireless pairing, player assignment, compatibility, and fixes if a controller will not connect.
PlayStation’s current DualSense pairing guide and DUALSHOCK 4 support page provide the console-specific instructions.
For a PS5 multiplayer setup, start with one DualSense connected by USB. Pair additional DualSense controllers through the console’s Bluetooth Accessories list, where the first connected controller can select each new pad.
Turn on the PS5 and connect the controller to the console using a USB-C cable. Press the PS button in the center of the controller. The light bar blinks and the player indicator lights when the controller pairs.
When the user-selection screen appears, choose the player’s account or a Guest option if it is available. If you want to play wirelessly, disconnect the cable after pairing; the controller can continue over Bluetooth. A connected controller and a joined player are separate things, so follow the game’s prompt to enter its local multiplayer mode.
Repeat that wireless sequence for the third and fourth controllers. The console supports up to four connected controllers; after that, it will not add a fifth active player controller. You can also use a compatible USB cable to pair a controller with the console. PlayStation’s DualSense instructions include the current menu path and button combination.
Use a DUALSHOCK 4 controller for a PS4 setup. The first-time pairing method is straightforward: switch on the console, connect the controller with its USB cable, and press PS. Once it is paired and has enough charge, you can unplug the cable and play wirelessly.
When a DUALSHOCK 4 has been paired with another console, pair it again with the PS4 you want to use. Sony says a DUALSHOCK 4 pairs with one console at a time. Check the official DUALSHOCK 4 instructions if the light bar does not settle after pairing.
If a controller blinks but does not appear as connected, work through these checks in order:
| What you see | What to try |
|---|---|
| The console charges the controller but does not pair it | Swap in a USB cable marked for charging and data, then try another console USB port. A charge-only cable cannot complete the PS5 pairing flow. |
| The second PS5 controller does not show in the list | Keep Bluetooth Accessories open on the PS5, turn off the second controller’s player indicator, then hold Create and PS until its light bar blinks. |
| The controller connects to a different player or console | Use the primary controller to select the intended profile. For a controller paired with another console, repeat the USB pairing steps for this console. |
| The controller still will not pair after the basic checks | Reset the controller, reconnect it by USB, and press PS. Use the model-specific reset location below. |
Turn off the PS5 and disconnect the controller from USB. On the back of the DualSense, locate the small reset hole near the Sony logo. Use a pin or similar tool to press and hold the reset button for at least five seconds. Then connect the controller to the PS5 with USB and press PS. See PlayStation’s DualSense troubleshooting steps.
Turn off and unplug the PS4. Find the small reset button on the back of the DUALSHOCK 4 near the L2 shoulder button, then hold it with a small tool for about three to five seconds. Reconnect the console, attach the controller by USB, and press PS to pair it again.
Once the controllers are connected, open a game mode that supports local or couch multiplayer. Some games support only one local player, while others require each person to join from a lobby or press a specific button. The controller limit is a console hardware limit, not a promise that every title supports four players. For PS5, remember that a DUALSHOCK 4 can join supported PS4 games running on the console but cannot control a PS5-format game.
No. PlayStation’s controller support pages list up to four controllers at a time on PS5 and PS4. A fifth active controller will not create another local player slot.
You can use a DUALSHOCK 4 for supported PS4 games on PS5, including alongside a DualSense controller. The DUALSHOCK 4 is not supported for PS5-format games, so check the game version and controller requirements before starting.
No. Pairing a controller to the console is a local USB or Bluetooth process. Internet access, account sign-in, and online multiplayer requirements depend on the game and the features you want to use.
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