Why is Steam not detecting my PS4 controller?

Bluetooth connectivity might be the issue if you’re using the controller wirelessly:
1. Enable Bluetooth on your PC.
2. Hold the PS and Share buttons on your PS4 controller until the light bar blinks.
3. On your PC, go to Bluetooth settings and select ‘Add Bluetooth or other device.’
4. Choose ‘Bluetooth’ and then ‘Wireless Controller’ from the list.
5. Pair the controller and check if Steam now recognizes it.
6. Verify Steam client’s Bluetooth settings.

One probable cause could be outdated drivers. Here’s how to check and update them:
1. Open Device Manager by right-clicking the Start button and selecting ‘Device Manager.’
2. Expand ‘Human Interface Devices’.
3. Locate your PS4 controller, right-click, and select ‘Update driver.’
4. Choose ‘Search automatically for updated driver software.’
5. Follow the prompts and restart your computer after the update.

Use Steam’s Big Picture Mode for easier controller setup:
1. Launch Steam and click the controller icon for Big Picture Mode.
2. Click the ‘Settings’ gear icon and select ‘Controller Settings.’
3. Enable ‘PS4 Configuration Support.’
4. Plug in your controller, then click on ‘Detected Controllers’ to customize its configuration.
5. Exit Big Picture Mode and try your controller again.

Resetting your PS4 controller might help:
1. Locate the small reset button on the back of the controller.
2. Use a pin or paperclip to press the button for about 10 seconds.
3. Reconnect the controller to your PC to see if Steam detects it.

Firmware updates for your controller might resolve compatibility issues. Visit the PlayStation website to download and install the latest firmware update. After updating, reconnect your PS4 controller to check if Steam now detects it.

Conflicts with other devices can prevent Steam from detecting your PS4 controller. Disconnect all peripherals except your keyboard and mouse, then plug in the PS4 controller alone. Check if Steam detects it, then reconnect other peripherals one by one to find potential conflicts.

Steam client updates can resolve such issues. Open Steam and click ‘Steam’ in the top-left corner, then select ‘Check for Steam Client Updates.’ Follow the prompts to install any updates. Restart Steam and try using your controller again.

Third-party software can cause interference. Close background applications using Task Manager (Ctrl + Shift + Esc). Look for non-essential programs, especially gaming or peripheral software, and end those tasks. Relaunch Steam and check your controller.

The cable you’re using might be at fault. Try a different USB cable, ensuring it supports data transfer, not just charging. Also, connect to a different USB port, preferably a USB 2.0 port. This minor change can sometimes resolve connection issues.

Steam’s controller settings might need adjustment. Ensure Steam can recognize your PS4 controller:
1. Open Steam, go to ‘Steam’ in the top-left corner and select ‘Settings.’
2. Head to the ‘Controller’ tab and click ‘General Controller Settings.’
3. Check the box for ‘PS4 Configuration Support.’
4. If it’s already checked, uncheck it, restart Steam, then check it again.
5. Reconnect your PS4 controller to see if Steam now recognizes it.