There are multiple ways to connect your PS5 controller to your MacBook. For wireless connectivity, activate the controller’s pairing mode by holding the PS and Create buttons, then enable Bluetooth to pair on your MacBook. You can also use a USB-C cable for a wired connection, which your MacBook will detect instantly. To customize button layouts and gameplay controls for the best experience on Steam, enable PlayStation Configuration Support in the settings.

Tips To Connect PS5 Controller To MacBook

Connecting a PS5 controller to a MacBook enhances your gaming experience, allowing for greater comfort and control. You can connect via Bluetooth or USB cable, offering unique benefits.

Requirements Before Starting

Before you begin, make sure you have the following:

  • A MacBook running macOS Big Sur (11.3) or later for optimal compatibility.
  • A PS5 DualSense controller.
  • A stable Bluetooth connection or a USB-C cable.

3 Steps To Connect PS5 Controller to MacBook via Bluetooth

First, you can try to connect the PS5 wirelessly. Follow the connectivity steps:

1: Prepare the Controller

  • Turn off the PS5 console.
  • Press the PS button (the center button with the PlayStation logo) and the Create button located to the left of the touchpad together. 
  • Release the buttons once the light bar starts flashing, indicating the controller is in pairing mode.

2: Enable Bluetooth on Your MacBook

  • First, click the Apple menu in the top-left corner of your MacBook screen.
  • Then, go to System Preferences > Bluetooth.
  • Ensure Bluetooth is turned on.

3: Pair the Controller with Your MacBook

  • In the Bluetooth menu, look for a device named “DualSense Wireless Controller” in the list of visible devices.
  • Click on the controller name to pair.
  • When your controller is connected, the light bar stops flashing and remains steady.
  • Now, the PS5 controller is ready to use on your MacBook!

3 Steps To Connect PS5 Controller to MacBook via USB-C Cable

If Bluetooth isn’t working, try a wired connection using these steps:

1: Get the Right Cable

  • You can check the controller to ensure you have the right cable.

2: Connect the Controller to the MacBook

  • Plug one cable end into your PS5 controller and the other into your MacBook.
  • Your MacBook will automatically detect the controller as an input device.

3: Configure the Controller in Games

  • Open a game or gaming platform like Steam that supports controllers.
  • Ensure the controller is selected as the input device in the game’s settings.

5 Steps To Connect PS5 Controller to MacBook Using On Steam

Steam is another popular gaming platform and works well with the PS5 controller:

  1. First, open the Steam app on your MacBook.
  2. Then, go to Steam > Settings (on macOS, it’s under Preferences).
  3. Navigate to Controller > General Controller Settings.
  4. Enable the PlayStation Configuration Support option.
  5. The connected PS5 controller should appear as a recognized device.

Steam also allows you to customize button mappings and adjust sensitivity for a more personalized experience.

Testing the Connection

After your controller has been paired, connect and test it to ensure compatibility with your device. If you encounter any issues, it might indicate a need for game console repair to address underlying hardware or software problems affecting connectivity.

  • Run a compatible game, either from Apple Arcade or Steam. 
  • Test the controller by navigating the game menu to confirm it’s working.
  • Adjust game-specific controller settings to ensure a smooth gaming experience.

4 Common PS5 Connectivity Issues and their Solutions

If you encounter problems, here are some solutions:

1. Controller Not Pairing via Bluetooth

  • Ensure the controller is in pairing mode (light bar flashing).
  • Turn Bluetooth off and on again on your MacBook.
  • Remove any previously paired controllers from the Bluetooth list and try again.

2. Lag or Connectivity Issues

  • Use a wired connection for a stable input.
  • Ensure no other Bluetooth devices are interfering with the connection.

3. Controller Not Recognized by Games

  • Check if the game supports controllers.
  • Reconfigure the input settings within the game or platform.

4. Firmware Updates

  • Occasionally, the controller’s firmware might need an update. 
  • Connect the controller to your PS5 console or a PC to update it if needed.

Conclusion

Connecting a PS5 controller to your MacBook is a straightforward process that significantly enhances your gaming experience. Using a PS5 controller on your MacBook adds advanced haptic feedback, adaptive triggers, and ergonomic comfort, making it ideal for long gaming sessions.

So, if you want a flawless gaming experience, connect your controller to your MacBook via USB cable, Bluetooth, and Stream. If you encounter any issues, the experts at GadgetFix are here to help, whether you want to connect your PS5 controller to an iPhone or MacBook.