DualShock 4

The DualShock 4 supports analogue sticks and triggers, motion input, touchpad input, rumble and lightbar control in compatible DS4Windows builds.

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Connect and identify the controller

Connect a micro-USB data cable for wired testing. To pair wirelessly, hold PS + Share until the light flashes, then add Wireless Controller in Windows Bluetooth settings. Sony’s dedicated DS4 USB wireless adapter is another model-specific option.

DS4Windows classic controller readings
Classic application / driver reference screenshot. Interface varies by edition.

Configure the input and profile

Start with Xbox 360 output for a game built around XInput. Choose DualShock 4 output only when the game supports that input path. Button prompts are controlled by the game; a physical PlayStation pad can still produce Xbox prompts.

Model-specific limits

Controller audio is a separate connection feature. Classic DS4Windows does not create a wireless audio stream through a generic Bluetooth adapter. Use a supported USB/native audio route or the Sony DS4 adapter where appropriate. Do not assume Nexus DualSense speaker features apply to DS4 hardware.

A repeatable test

  1. Close competing remappers and select a baseline profile.
  2. Check that buttons and sticks respond in DS4Windows before opening a game.
  3. Confirm the intended virtual controller in Windows.
  4. Test the game, then change one setting at a time.
  5. Repeat on USB and Bluetooth separately when both are supported; they can have different HidHide entries.

If it is not working

If Windows cannot see the device, solve cable, pairing or model-specific driver setup first. If only DS4Windows misses it, check device support and hiding rules. If DS4Windows reads it but a game ignores it, check virtual output and Steam Input before changing the physical connection.

Sources: Nexus release documentation · Project and screenshot credits. Updated 11 November 2026.