PS5 controller drift
DualSense drift shows up as your character walking on their own, the camera slowly turning, or menus scrolling by themselves. Here's how to confirm it and what to try, cheapest fix first.
1. Test it
Connect the DualSense to your computer with a USB-C cable (or pair it by Bluetooth), open the tester and press any button. It should say Detected: PS5 DualSense. Then let go of both sticks.
- Fine: both sticks rest within about ±0.05 on each axis.
- Drifting: a stick rests above about 0.08, wanders, or settles somewhere different after you flick it.
Run Calibrate sticks for a precise reading. The tester labels each stick as Centred, Slight offset or Drifting.
2. Reset the controller
There's a small reset hole on the back of the DualSense, near the L2 trigger. With the PS5 off, push a straightened paperclip into it and hold for about 5 seconds. Then reconnect with a USB cable and press the PS button. This clears glitches but won't fix a worn stick.
3. Update the controller software
On the PS5, look under Settings → Accessories → Controllers for the wireless controller device software option and install any update. Updates can improve stick behaviour and connection problems.
4. Clean around the sticks
With the controller off, blow compressed air around the base of each stick while rotating it. For grime, use a cotton swab with a little 90%+ isopropyl alcohol around the base, rotate the stick, and let it dry fully before using it. Retest afterwards.
5. Raise the deadzone in your games
Many PS5 and PC games have a stick deadzone setting. Set it just above the resting value the tester shows. Deadzones explained walks through picking the number.
6. Warranty, repair or replacement
- Under warranty: contact PlayStation Support before opening anything. Opening it can void the warranty.
- DualSense Edge: its stick modules are designed to be swapped without tools, and replacement modules are sold separately.
- Standard DualSense: the sticks are soldered to the board. Replacing them (hall-effect sticks are the long-lasting option) needs desoldering, or a repair shop.
See replacement parts and the general stick drift guide.