5 ways to fix a PS4 controller that won't charge

Devon DelfinoApr 14, 2021, 04:21 IST

Sometimes PS4 controllers don't quite charge the way they're supposed to, but you can try a few troubleshooting tricks.SOPA Images / Contributor/Getty Images

If your PS4 controller won't charge, you can try swapping out the charging cable or checking the charging port.
You can also try resetting and re-pairing your controller, or performing a power cycling on the PS4.
The issue may also be with the charging port or the charging cable.

There are many reasons why your PS4 controller may not be charging. And those reasons can range from the minor, like cable issues or dust, to more major problems, which might mean you need to buy a brand new controller.

Before you go out and replace a finicky PS4 controller, it's always a good idea to first do some troubleshooting to see if you can get your device to charge again - which could be easier than you think.

Here are five troubleshooting tips to get you back to gaming sooner.

Plug your PS4 into your laptop or another device to charge it

Make sure that the charging cable is inserted correctly into the outlet at the top of the controller and your computer. EKKAPHAN CHIMPALEE/Getty Images

Sometimes controllers have difficulty charging directly from the PS4, but testing out the controller by plugging it into another device — like your Mac, PC, or Android — can help you narrow down the reasons why it's not charging.

If it's not charging from another source, then you know that it's not the PS4 itself that's causing the problem.

Swap out the charging cable

You might need to switch out the charging cord if your PS4 controller isn't charging properly. Amazon

The issue may not be with the controller itself but with the charging cable. Try a different cable or try using that cable to charge another controller.

You can also check the cable for physical signs of damage such as fraying on the cord or built-up grime in the plug.

The issue may not be with the controller itself but with the charging cable. Try a different cable or try using that cable to charge another controller.

You can also check the cable for physical signs of damage such as fraying on the cord or built-up grime in the plug.

Check out the charging port

Make sure that the charging cable is inserted correctly into the outlet at the top of the controller and your computer. Kirsten Acuna/Insider

Built-up dust or grit may be interrupting the power flow and keeping your controller from charging. A quick pass with a wooden toothpick or compressed air may help.

Reset and re-pair your controller

Use a toothpick or bobby pin to press into the small hole on the back of your PS4 controller to reset it. Sony

Go to the Settings menu on your PS4 and under "Devices," remove all devices from the list. Then, on your controller, press something into the small hole on the underside of the controller and hold it for five seconds. A toothpick or bobby pin, for example, may do the trick.

Finally, re-sync the controller to the PS4 using the PS button. If you have issues re-pairing your PS4 controller, see our article on how to connect your controller to your PS4.

Go to the Settings menu on your PS4 and under Devices, remove all devices from the list. Then, on your controller, press something into the small hole on the underside of the controller and hold it for five seconds. A toothpick or bobby pin, for example, may do the trick.

Finally, re-sync the controller to the PS4 using the PS button. If you have issues re-pairing your PS4 controller, see our article on how to connect your controller to your PS4.

Conduct a power cycling on your PS4

Turning off your console and controller, unplugging them, and restarting them may do the trick. picture alliance / Contributor/Getty Images

Turn off your PS4 console and controller, and unplug the PS4's power cord from the outlet. Wait 5 to 10 minutes, and with the PS4 still unplugged, hold down the power button for 30 seconds to drain all its leftover energy. Then, plug the PS4 back in, turn it on, and see if the issue has been fixed.

If your controller still isn't charging after troubleshooting, check if it's still under warranty with Sony or the retailer you purchased it from.

If so, you may be able to get a replacement, or swap out some of the hardware, without having to shell out money for a brand new controller.

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