How to Find Your Lost PS5 Controller: A Comprehensive Guide

Losing your PS5 controller can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re ready to dive into your favorite game. The sleek design that makes it so appealing can also make it easy to misplace, whether it’s under the couch, in between cushions, or hiding in plain sight. This article will provide you with several strategies to quickly and effectively locate your missing DualSense controller, along with answers to common questions about PS5 controller issues.

Strategies for Finding Your Missing PS5 Controller

The first step is to conduct a thorough search of the most likely hiding places. Here’s a systematic approach you can use:

1. The Obvious Spots

• Around Your Gaming Area: Start by meticulously checking the area immediately surrounding your PlayStation 5 console. Look under the TV, on shelves, inside entertainment units, and on nearby furniture.
• Cushions and Crevices: Check between and under couch cushions, chairs, and any other soft furnishings in your gaming space. These are prime spots for controllers to slip into.
• Coffee Tables and Surfaces: Scan any flat surfaces like coffee tables, side tables, and desks. A misplaced controller can easily blend into a cluttered surface.

2. Expand Your Search Radius

• Adjacent Rooms: If you don’t find it in the immediate gaming area, consider nearby rooms. It’s not uncommon for controllers to be carried away accidentally.
• Under Furniture: Use a flashlight to peek under beds, sofas, and other furniture. A controller can sometimes roll into hard-to-reach places.
• Storage Areas: Check any baskets, drawers, or storage areas you might use for gaming accessories.

3. Using Technology

• Tile Bluetooth Trackers: A popular and effective method involves using a Tile Bluetooth tracker. By attaching a Tile Slim tracker to your PS5 controller, you can use the Tile app on your smartphone to ring the tracker and find your controller using the sound. This is a proactive way to prevent future lost-controller situations.
• PS Remote Play: While not a direct method to find your controller, PS Remote Play can potentially help. If your controller is connected to the PS5, you could try using the app to see if the controller responds. If it does, that at least gives you some indication that the controller is within range of your PS5.
• Audio Search: If the DualSense controller is powered on, and if it’s connected to your PS5, try navigating the menu with another controller or through the PS Remote Play App, and try to navigate in such a way as to produce sound from the controller (like selecting an option and hearing the “click” sound), this can help to you listen for the controller.

4. The “Last Known Location” Approach

• Retrace Your Steps: Think back to the last time you remember using the controller. Retrace your steps and check those locations again.
• Ask Family or Housemates: If you live with others, ask them if they’ve seen your controller. It’s possible someone else moved it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can you track a PS5 controller with the PlayStation Network?

Unfortunately, the PlayStation Network does not have a built-in tracking feature for controllers. You can, however, track the console itself (if stolen), but not controllers.

2. How do I use a Tile tracker with my PS5 controller?

Attach a Tile Slim tracker or other Tile Bluetooth tracker to your controller with adhesive or a clip, and follow the setup instructions in the Tile app to connect it to your phone. Then you can “ring” the Tile via the app when you cannot locate the controller.

3. Is my PS5 controller Bluetooth?

Yes, the PS5 DualSense controller uses Bluetooth for wireless communication with the console, as well as with other devices like laptops and phones. You can also connect it via USB.

4. Can I use PS Remote Play to find my controller?

While PS Remote Play cannot directly locate the controller, if the controller is connected to your PS5, you might notice controller actions on the app. If it seems responsive, that may indicate the general proximity of your controller.

5. What if my PS5 controller is out of battery and lost?

A dead battery can make it hard to use the techniques mentioned above. To find a dead controller, you need to rely on visual searches. Double-check all areas you have already looked and try going to other more unusual spots.

6. Where can I take my PS5 controller to get fixed?

If your PS5 controller is broken, uBreakiFix by Asurion offers free diagnostics and controller repairs. You can also find technicians at local electronic repair shops. If under warranty, contacting Sony may be the best first step.

7. Why does my PS5 controller have stick drift?

Stick drift can be caused by physical damage, wear and tear, debris buildup, or out-of-date software. It’s a common issue with joysticks over time.

8. Will Sony replace my PS5 controller for stick drift?

If your PS5 controller’s warranty is still valid, Sony may fix stick drift or replace the controller for free. Check your warranty terms carefully.

9. What does it mean when my PS5 controller blinks orange?

When your PS5 controller blinks orange while charging, it means it is in the process of charging. If it blinks once then turns off, it means that the controller is already fully charged. The solid orange light is part of the charging cycle, when the controller is connected to a power source.

10. How much does PS5 controller repair cost?

Non-warranty repairs generally range from $19.95 to $85, depending on the severity of the issue and the repair location. A SCUF technician inspection may be required for an exact quote.

11. Can Best Buy replace my PS5 controller?

Best Buy will provide a one-time replacement if the controller that came with your console stops working, provided that it is within their warranty terms.

12. Are PS5 controllers expensive?

The average PS5 controller retails for about $69.99, making them somewhat pricey. However, premium third party options can be more expensive.

13. Can PlayStation ban a stolen PS5?

Yes, if a PS5 console is reported stolen with the serial number and a police report, Sony can brick the device once it connects to the network. They can also track the device based on it’s IP address.

14. How long does it take for Sony to replace a PS5 controller?

Sony aims to return repaired or replaced items within 15 days of receiving them. However, this timeline can vary.

15. Does GameStop fix PS5 controllers?

GameStop does not repair controllers. However, they often offer warranties that cover stick drift. Consider purchasing one to get a free replacement the next time stick drift occurs.

Conclusion

Losing a PS5 controller can be a frustrating experience, but with a systematic approach and a bit of patience, you can usually find it. Whether you’re using the tried-and-true method of physical searching or the more modern method of Tile Bluetooth trackers, there are plenty of tools at your disposal. And if your controller is broken, it’s reassuring to know there are affordable repair options available. By staying proactive and keeping these tips in mind, you can spend less time searching and more time enjoying your favorite games.