How to Connect a PlayStation 5 DualSense Controller to a Mac

Gaming on macOS with a PS5 Controller

While Macs are not traditionally known as gaming powerhouses, the rise of Apple Silicon (M1, M2, M3 chips) and platforms like Apple Arcade, Steam, and cloud gaming have made macOS a viable platform for casual and mid-tier gaming. The Sony PlayStation 5 DualSense controller is widely considered one of the best gamepads available, and thankfully, Apple provides native support for it across macOS.

You can connect your PS5 controller to your Mac either wirelessly via Bluetooth or directly using a USB-C cable.

Method 1: Connect Wirelessly via Bluetooth

Bluetooth is the most convenient way to play, allowing you to sit back without being tethered to your desk.

1. On your Mac, click the Apple menu () in the top-left corner of the screen and select System Settings (or System Preferences on older macOS versions).
2. Click on Bluetooth in the left-hand sidebar and ensure the Bluetooth toggle is turned On.
3. Now, grab your PS5 DualSense controller. Ensure it is currently turned off and not actively connected to your PlayStation console.
4. Press and hold the PlayStation button (the logo in the center) and the Create button (the small button to the left of the touchpad) simultaneously.
5. Keep holding both buttons until the light bar around the touchpad begins to rapidly flash blue. This indicates the controller is in pairing mode.
6. Look at the Bluetooth devices list on your Mac. You should see a new device appear, usually named DualSense Wireless Controller.
7. Click the Connect button next to the controller’s name.

The flashing light on the controller will turn solid, indicating a successful connection. You can now close System Settings and launch your game.

Method 2: Connect via USB-C Cable

If you prefer a wired connection to eliminate input latency, or if your controller’s battery is low, a USB connection is the easiest method.

1. Acquire a high-quality USB-C to USB-C cable (or a USB-C to USB-A cable if you are using an older Mac without USB-C ports).
2. Plug one end of the cable into the top of the PS5 controller.
3. Plug the other end directly into an available port on your Mac.
4. The Mac will automatically recognize the controller. No Bluetooth pairing is required, and the controller will charge while you play.

How to Customize Controller Settings on Mac

macOS allows you to remap buttons and adjust the controller’s behavior globally or for specific games.

1. With the controller connected, open System Settings.
2. Scroll down the left sidebar and click on Game Controllers.
3. Click on your DualSense Wireless Controller in the list.
4. Here, you can adjust settings such as Haptic Feedback, disable the ability to take screenshots using the Create button, or create custom button remapping profiles.

Troubleshooting Connection Issues

If your Mac cannot find the controller or it will not connect properly:

• Turn off your PS5: If you are near your PlayStation 5, the controller might be trying to connect to the console instead of the Mac. Unplug the console from the wall while pairing to prevent interference.
• Reset the Controller: If the controller is unresponsive, locate the small reset hole on the back of the controller (near the Sony logo). Use a paperclip to press and hold the hidden button inside for 5 seconds, then try pairing again.
• Check macOS Version: Native support for the DualSense controller was introduced in macOS Big Sur 11.3. Ensure your Mac is fully updated by going to System Settings > General > Software Update.

Once connected, your PS5 controller will work seamlessly with Apple Arcade titles, many Steam games, and emulators that support gamepad input.