Why is my PlayStation controller not connecting? (2023)

Why is my PlayStation controller flashing but not connecting?

There are two main reasons you might see the flashing white light on your DualShock controller: either the battery is dying, or the controller failed to connect to your PlayStation console.

Your DualShock 4 controller comes with one cable, but any USB 2.0 to Micro-B cable will work. Step 1: Plug the USB cable into the controller, then into the USB port in the PlayStation 4. Step 2: When you turn on your PS4, your controller should automatically connect with your PlayStation, thanks to the USB cable.

The blue light of death is a common issue that PS4 users may experience. It usually means you have a software issue or a faulty power or HDMI cable.

The blinking blue light on your PS4 controller means it's attempting to pair with the console. It should stop blinking quickly after the console is turned on, but if the problem persists, there are several quick & easy troubleshooting techniques to try like factory resetting the controller.

Locate the small reset button on the back of the controller near the L2 button. Use a small tool to push the button inside the tiny hole. Hold the button down for roughly 3-5 seconds. Plug in your console, connect your controller using a USB cable and press the PS button.

Common reasons your PS4 controller is not working

The controller's battery is dead. The controller was recently paired with another device, like a different PS4 or PC. The controller is too far from your PlayStation and is no longer connected via Bluetooth®.

Blinking Blue Light

When booting your PS4, the LED light on the side of your console should momentarily pulse blue before changing to white. But if your console has a problem, the blue light will pulse continuously without turning white. This is usually followed by your PS4 inexplicably turning off.

The console is on and working normally. This light may appear yellow or amber to some. After a few seconds, the console light should stay solid orange. Rest mode is a low-power state when the console can charge controllers, download and install content.

When you press the PS button, the light bar will glow in a uniquely assigned color. The color that is assigned depends on the order in which each user presses the PS button. The first controller to connect is blue, the second is red, the third is green, and the fourth is pink.

How do you fix blue light of death?

The blinking blue light of death means the PS4 doesn't enter the power on state indicated by the solid white light. Due to this there may not be any video or audio output to the television and could cause difficulties actually turning the console off.

There is a second issue which is more ordinary in nature: if you still see lights but the controller doesn't do anything, you've lost connection with the PS4 and need to pair the controller. The easiest way to do this is by pressing the reset button on the bottom near the L2 button.

If your PS4 controller won't connect, try a different USB cable, in case the original one has failed. You can also reset the PS4 controller by pressing the button on the back of the controller. If your controller still won't connect to your PS4, you might need to get support from Sony.

Highlight the controller you want to reset, press the Options button, then select Forget Device. For a hard reset, use a straightened paperclip to press the button inside the small hole on the back of the controller for five seconds.