Why do my controllers keep disconnecting on PS4?

Why do my controllers keep disconnecting on PS4?
I’ve been having this frustrating issue where my PS4 controllers keep disconnecting from the console at the worst possible times, whether I’m in the middle of an intense gaming session or just trying to navigate the home screen. I’ve tried resetting the controllers and the console itself, but the problem persists. This disconnection happens randomly, and sometimes it feels like it’s getting worse. I have even replaced the controllers, thinking the issue was due to wear and tear, but the new ones also disconnect. It leaves me wondering if there’s some interference or a deeper issue with the console’s Bluetooth connection. Is anyone else experiencing issues like this, and why do my controllers keep disconnecting on PS4?
4 Answers

I faced the same annoying issue with PS4 controllers disconnecting randomly. Here’s what worked for me:
- Resetting Both Devices: Press the tiny reset button on the back of the controller using a pin. Then restart your console.
- Re-syncing the Controller: Connect the controller to the PS4 using a USB cable and press the PS button to pair it again.
- Checking for Interference: Make sure there are no other wireless devices nearby that could interfere with the Bluetooth signal.
- Updating Firmware: Sometimes updating the controller’s firmware helps. Connect it to the PS4 and go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices and follow the prompts.
- Bluetooth Adapter: If possible, try using a separate Bluetooth adapter to see if the internal Bluetooth is the problem.
- Rebuilding Database: Some players reported that rebuilding the PS4 database solved this issue. Go to Safe Mode and select ‘Rebuild Database.’
- Power Cycle: Turn off the console completely, unplug it for a few minutes, then plug it back in and turn it on.
Following these steps significantly reduced the disconnections for me.

I had a similar problem with my PS4 controllers disconnecting all the time. It turned out to be an issue with the console’s internal Bluetooth component. Here’s a detailed solution that worked for me:
- Relocate the Console: Move your PS4 to a more open space with fewer electronic devices around to minimize interference.
- Replace the USB Cable: Sometimes, faulty USB cables can cause intermittent connections, so use a high-quality, reliable cable.
- Check Router Frequency: If your router operates on the 2.4 GHz frequency, consider switching it to 5 GHz if possible, as the 2.4 GHz band can interfere with Bluetooth.
- Inspect Hardware: Open up your console (if you are comfortable doing so) and check for any loose or damaged internal components or antennas.
- Console Update: Ensure your PS4’s system software is fully updated to avoid compatibility issues. Go to Settings > System Software Update.
- Environment Adjustments: Remove any obstacles, such as metal objects or bulky furniture, between the controller and the console that could block the signal.
After tweaking these settings and making these adjustments, my controllers stopped disconnecting, and the gaming experience improved immensely.

You’re not alone in this; my PS4 controllers would constantly disconnect too. Here’s a short solution that worked for me:
- Bluetooth Interference: Ensure no electronic devices like cordless phones or WiFi routers are close to the console, as they may disrupt the connection.
- Battery Health: Check if the controller’s battery is still holding a proper charge. Sometimes a nearly dead battery can cause disconnection issues.
- Firmware Updates: Keep both the PS4 and the controllers’ firmware updated.
By focusing on these, I noticed a significant decrease in the number of disconnections.

My experience involved some troubleshooting and eventually finding that the environment had a lot to do with it. Here’s a step-by-step guide that helped me:
- Resetting the Controller: I used a paperclip to press the small reset button on the back of the controller. Once reset, I connected it directly to the PS4 via a USB cable and paired it again by pressing the PS button.
- Eliminating Interference: Initially, I didn’t know about Bluetooth interference. I moved my PS4 and all my gaming peripherals to a different room, away from my WiFi router and other electronic devices.
- Upgrading Firmware: I learned that outdated firmware could cause connectivity issues. I navigated to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices and followed the prompts to update the controller’s firmware.
- Rebuilding Database: I took a deeper dive and started the PS4 in Safe Mode, selecting ‘Rebuild Database.’ This significantly improved my system’s performance overall and reduced disconnections.
- Replacing the USB Cord: Faulty USB cables can cause major issues, so I replaced mine. This not only improved the charging capacity but also helped maintain a stable connection when plugged in.
- Environmental Adjustments: Any metal or dense objects around the console can block the Bluetooth signal. By rearranging my gaming setup and removing any obstructive materials, I provided a clearer path for the signal.
- External Bluetooth Adapter: Lastly, for those whose internal Bluetooth is the root cause, using an external Bluetooth adapter could be the ultimate fix. I didn’t have to go this far, but it was my next step if all else failed.
Not one solution fits all, so I had to experiment with multiple fixes. Now, my PS4 controller works seamlessly without constant disconnections.