How to Update a PS5 Controller on a PC
This article explains how to update a PS5 controller using a PC. I'll also cover some troubleshooting in case you run into any problems.
Use a PC to Update a PS5 Controller
Your PS5 controller regularly needs updating to benefit from quality-of-life improvements and performance upgrades. Initiating a PS5 controller update via a PC can involve some extra steps compared to doing so on a PS5, so let's cover that.
Download the PS5 Firmware Update app from the PlayStation site.
Run the app and choose your language, before accepting the license agreement and installing it.
Note:
On some PCs, depending on whether you're running the app as an admin or not, you may need to click an option to allow the app to use the PC.
Connect your controller to the PC with a USB-C cable and launch the app.
Once the app detects the controller, click Update Now.
Tip:
If the app says the controller is already updated, you don’t need to do anything else.
Wait for the firmware to update. This should only take a minute or so.
Warning:
Do not quit the app or unplug the controller while it is updating.
Click OK to finish the updating process.
The PlayStation Firmware Updater should now display a message that the controller is up to date.
Tip:
If it doesn’t, repeat the process until it does.
You can now safely close the app or unplug the controller. The controller is now up to date and ready to use.
What to Do if the PS5 Controller Update Fails
It can be stressful if the PS5 firmware update for PC doesn’t work, but it doesn’t need to be a concern. Here’s a quick look at what’s likely to fix the issue.
- Check the cable is connected. If your PC doesn’t detect the controller, check that the cable is securely connected to the PC and the controller. If possible, use a different cable to narrow down the issue. If your PS5 controller won’t charge, this can also cause problems.
- Check your internet connection. You need to be online to download the PS5 controller update on your PC. Make sure your internet connection is working.
- Confirm you need to update. Even if it feels like a long time, your controller may not need updating. If the app says it’s up-to-date, trust it.
- Restart the PC. It’s a predictable solution, but rebooting your PC will often fix many issues.
Why Do I Need to Update My PS5 Controller?
The PS5 controller doesn’t need updating often, but it’s useful to keep up-to-date. Doing so means your controller will continue to function correctly. Sony sometimes pushes out updates that solve security issues but also ensures that haptic feedback and the adaptive triggers on the controller work with the latest games. If your games all work fine, it might not be essential, but it’s a good idea to update (or at least check) the controller occasionally.