If steam is not detecting your PS4 controller, you're most likely dealing with Bluetooth signal issues. You should be able to take care of this by disconnecting and reconnecting back to your computer.
This could also happen if your Windows operating system (or the steam client) has become outdated. You'll have to update them both.
Although I have not faced the problem in a while, it popped up once on my other computer. I figured that it was due to an outdated operating system.
I not only looked at how I fixed this but some additional solutions too.
Contents
There are many ways to fix the problem, and they include:
If the problem is due to Bluetooth interference, you should be able to fix it by disconnecting and reconnecting your controller.
If you're using a USB cable to connect your controller to your computer, there is a chance that the cable is faulty. Simply swap it out for another and check whether you're having any issues now.
While on the topic of a wired connection, the USB port you plugged the device into might be broken. All you have to do is connect the controller into a different port, then check whether Steam detects it. You can continue using this new port if it works.
The issue might be due to your controllers glitching out. Resetting them can help.
Here's what you need to do:
Now when you reconnect your controller to your computer, Steam should have no problem detecting it.
You might be having trouble as Steam is glitching out. This can cause other Bluetooth devices to have trouble connecting. You should be able to take care of this by closing and reopening the client. I advise you to restart your PC.
The problem could be due to your Windows OS being buggy. If this is what you're dealing with, you'll not only have a problem with your PS4 controller not connecting, but other problems too.
Downloading the latest OS version will help. Before you do this, make sure you have a stable internet connection.
Here's what you do:
The Steam app could also be outdated. Updating it should help.
Just know that you need a stable internet connection.
To start playing steam games:
Hopefully you can play Steam games with your PS4 controller now.
Regardless of whether you're using the controller as a USB device or have connected it via a Bluetooth dongle, you won't be able to play steam games if your drivers are outdated.
In fact, you won't be able to use your computer properly if this is what you're dealing with.
There are third-party software that can get the job done. In my opinion, Driver Easy is the best.
To use it to get your Dualshock controller to play nonsteam games as well as Steam games:
You might be able to fix the problem by enabling compatibility in big-picture mode. Although this usually works, it can be complicated compared to the other fixes on my list.
Here's what you do:
Your PS4 controller may be having trouble functioning if it has been damaged. You may have broken it. Depending on your warranty, you can get the controller fixed for free.
If you're using a wireless Bluetooth controller or built-in Bluetooth adapter, the problem can be due to damage.
Answered below are some popular questions.
There are many reasons why Steam may not be detecting your PS4 controller, and they include:
There are many reasons why you may be dealing with Steam not detecting PS4 controller. The problem could appear due to something minor like Windows OS version being outdated and bugging out, or your Steam software being buggy.
At the same time, the issue can be due to a more serious problem like dropping and breaking your controller. You won't be able to Play games with it, regardless of whether they're Steam games or not.
Hopefully you found all the points discussed useful.
