Do New PS5 Controllers Drift? Understanding and Addressing Stick Drift Issues
The short answer is, yes, new PS5 controllers can experience drift. While it’s a frustrating issue for gamers, it’s important to understand that stick drift is not exclusive to the PlayStation 5 DualSense controller; it affects controllers across various platforms. The good news is that it’s not always a sign of a faulty product, and there are several reasons why it occurs. Let’s delve into the details and explore what you can do to address this issue.
What is Controller Drift?
Controller drift, often referred to as stick drift, is a phenomenon where your in-game character or cursor moves on its own without any input from you on the analog sticks. This can manifest as a slow, subtle movement or a more aggressive, erratic one. It significantly impacts gameplay and can be incredibly frustrating, disrupting aiming, navigation, and overall control.
Why Does Stick Drift Happen?
Several factors contribute to stick drift in PS5 controllers:
1. Natural Wear and Tear
Like any mechanical component, the internal parts of the DualSense controller are subject to wear and tear with regular use. The constant movement and pressure applied to the analog sticks over time can cause the internal components to degrade, leading to drift.
2. Physical Damage
Accidental drops or impacts can cause physical damage to the controller, potentially dislodging components within the analog sticks. This can result in misaligned sensors and subsequent drift.
3. Debris and Grime
The most common culprit for controller drift is dust, debris, and grime. Food particles, dead skin cells, pet fur, and other small particles can find their way into the small gaps around the analog sticks. These build-ups can interfere with the sensor’s functionality, leading to unintentional movement.
4. Outdated Software
While less common, outdated controller firmware or console software can sometimes contribute to drift issues. Software updates often include bug fixes and optimizations that may address some drifting issues.
5. Manufacturing Defects
Although rare, there can sometimes be manufacturing defects in the controller components themselves that cause the sticks to be more prone to drift.
Are New PS5 Controllers Prone to Drift?
While it might seem counterintuitive, even a brand-new PS5 controller can experience stick drift. Here’s why:
- Initial Wear: Even though it’s new, the initial use of the controller is when certain parts begin their wear process. The small, internal plastic parts and contact points begin to “break in” during usage, and sometimes this can lead to minor drift issues that either resolve on their own or require minor maintenance.
- Factory Debris: It is possible (although not the norm) for some minor debris to be present inside a newly manufactured controller. This might be residual from the manufacturing process and could contribute to stick drift.
- Handling: The controller can be subjected to minor knocks and jostles during shipping and delivery, and it’s plausible that this can cause a small amount of misalignment within the stick assembly that results in drift.
How to Fix PS5 Controller Drift
Fortunately, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to try and resolve stick drift:
1. Clean Your Controller Thoroughly
Use a cotton swab, rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol 90% or higher), and compressed air to clean the area around the analog sticks. This will remove any debris that might be causing the drift.
2. Check for Software Updates
Ensure that your PS5 console and your DualSense controller have the latest software updates installed. Sony frequently releases updates that may address drift issues.
3. Reset Your Controller
Performing a hard reset on your DualSense controller can sometimes resolve software-related issues causing drift. To do this, locate the small reset button on the back of the controller near the top right. Use a pin or paperclip to press and hold this button for a few seconds.
4. Adjust Dead Zones (DualSense Edge)
If you own a DualSense Edge controller, you can adjust the dead zones in the settings. Increasing the dead zone means your sticks need to be moved further before registering input. This may eliminate drift, as small movements are then ignored.
5. Try an Alternative Lubricant
Some users have found success using WD-40 Contact Cleaner to help dislodge any dirt and restore smooth movement of the stick mechanism. This should be used as a last resort and only if you have prior experience using this product.
6. Warranty and Repairs
If none of the above methods fix the issue, and if your controller is still under warranty (typically one year from purchase), you can contact Sony for repair or replacement. Alternatively, professional third-party repair services are available, but these come at a cost.
Addressing PS5 Controller Drift: Frequently Asked Questions
To provide a more comprehensive guide, here are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding PS5 controller drift:
1. How often do PS5 controllers get stick drift?
While a small percentage of controllers can develop stick drift, it’s important to note that 99.9% of controllers out there will likely never have stick drift. It’s often a matter of luck and usage.
2. Do PS5 controllers have a warranty?
Yes, PS5 controllers come with a one-year manufacturer’s warranty from the date of purchase. If your controller is still under warranty, Sony may repair or replace it free of charge due to stick drift.
3. Is stick drift covered by warranty PS5?
Yes, stick drift is generally covered under the manufacturer’s warranty. As long as the issue is not caused by intentional damage, Sony should provide a repair or replacement.
4. Will resetting my controller fix drift?
A controller reset can sometimes fix drift caused by software glitches. It’s worth trying as a simple troubleshooting step, but it might not solve hardware-related drift.
5. How long do PS5 controllers last?
The PS5 DualSense battery life averages between 6 to 12 hours, depending on usage. In terms of physical lifespan, this can vary greatly depending on usage frequency and care.
6. Does WD40 fix stick drift?
WD-40 Contact Cleaner (not regular WD-40) has been known to temporarily alleviate stick drift. However, it is not a permanent solution and should be used with caution, and with prior knowledge of using this product.
7. Can controller drift go away?
Yes, in some cases, controller drift can go away after being thoroughly cleaned or reset. It can also, unfortunately, worsen over time. If the issue stems from wear or hardware damage, cleaning and resetting may not provide a lasting fix.
8. What is Sony doing about PS5 controller drift?
Sony regularly releases firmware updates for both the console and controller to address bugs and potential hardware issues that may cause drift.
9. How do I stop my PS5 controller from drifting?
Regular cleaning, careful handling, and updating firmware are the best ways to prevent stick drift.
10. Does Gamestop fix stick drift?
GameStop does not generally provide a repair service for stick drift. However, if you bought a warranty with your controller at GameStop, you might be able to get a replacement.
11. How much does it cost to fix a PS5 controller?
The cost of repairing a PS5 controller depends on the service provider. If you are out of warranty, costs may range from $20 to $85 depending on the type of repair.
12. Do PlayStation 5 controllers have a warranty?
Yes, PS5 controllers come with a one-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and hardware malfunctions.
13. Why do PS5 controllers drift so easily?
PS5 controllers are not inherently more prone to drift than other controllers. Like all joystick-equipped controllers, they wear out over time, are subject to environmental factors, and may develop drift with use.
14. Will Sony fix PS5 controller drift for free?
If your controller is under warranty, Sony will typically fix the stick drift for free. They may also replace the controller if a repair is not possible.
15. Can I send my PS5 to Sony for repair?
Yes, you can send your PS5 console for repair, but you will generally need a case ID from Sony, which is obtained by contacting them by phone or through their website. It’s essential to complete troubleshooting steps first.
Conclusion
While stick drift in new PS5 controllers can be frustrating, it’s a common issue affecting gaming controllers across different platforms. Understanding the causes and knowing how to troubleshoot the issue will help you maintain your gaming gear and get back to enjoying your games. Remember to clean your controllers regularly, update their firmware, and contact Sony if the issue persists, especially if your device is still under warranty.