DualSense controllers seem to suffer the same drifting phenomenon as the DualShock 4. But there are ways to fix the issue.
Since the release of the PS5, owners of the console have noticed an unfortunate defect with the DualSense controller. Like the DualShock 4 that shipped with the PS4, the PS5 controller appears to suffer from drifting.
If your DualSense is drifting, here are a few things you can try to solve the problem.
What Is DualSense Drift?
DualSense drift occurs when the PS5 registers movement on screen despite the player not touching the controller. So, for example, your character might move in Fortnite, even though you're not actually touching the DualSense.
This is because of DualSense drift. Essentially, the joystick sensors inside the pad are becoming prematurely obsolete. They wear away fast, become clogged with your thumb gunk, and can warp over time. Sadly, a PS5 controller teardown suggests DualSense drift was inevitable, as some components are prone to wear and tear.
This isn't ideal if you want your DualSense to last. Nobody wants to shell out $70 for another controller if their new one fails after a couple of months. Fortunately, you can take a few steps to fix DualSense drift.
Fix 1: Adjust the Input Threshold on Your DualSense Controller
The input threshold (also known as the deadzone) is essentially the area where the thumbstick doesn't register any movement. So, if you are experiencing only light drift, you may be able to eradicate it entirely. This fix will only work for certain games, though.
If you head into the controller settings on some (but not all) games, you will notice an option to change the size of the controller's input threshold. You can see an example of these settings from Call Of Duty: Black Ops Cold War.
So, if you are experiencing slight DualSense drift to the right on the right thumbstick, you can increase the deadzone size/input threshold on that stick. This means that the controller won't register movement until you push the stick out of its threshold.
Sadly, this is not an option at the system level, which is surprising as this would be a relatively easy fix for Sony. It could include this in a controller and console update so you can change the deadzone from the main controller menu. This might keep people happier for longer and would provide a temporary solution, at the very least.
Fix 2: Thoroughly Clean Your DualSense Controller
If you never clean your controllers, you really should start doing so. Think about it, when you game, your hands get sweaty. This leaves residue all over your controller. It gets in the grooves, under the shoulder triggers, under the face buttons, and just about anywhere else there is a recess.
Unfortunately, this means dirt gets under the thumbsticks, too. This is the perfect place for grime to live, and unfortunately, it can cause DualSense drift—so, it may need some cleaning. This is how to clean your PS5 controller the right way.
The best tools are a cotton swab and high-concentrate isopropyl alcohol. We suggest the highest concentrated alcohol you can get. The higher the concentration, the less water it contains, meaning a lower chance of water damage to the internal circuitry.
Don't forget to disconnect and turn off the controller before you start cleaning it. Not doing so could damage it even further. It is simply a case of dipping the cotton swab in a bit of alcohol and gently cleaning each thumbstick and its housing.
Don't use lots of liquid when cleaning it—just a light dab. Make sure you move the stick around in its chassis and clean the bearing properly, as this is the part of the thumbstick that will introduce dirt to the inside of the controller.
In addition, you can also fix your DualSense stick drift by blowing off dust or any other particles that might be trapped underneath the thumbstick. You can use a dust blower or compressed air for this. Try moving the thumbstick around in full circles while you blow air into the controller.
Fix 3: Lift and Rotate Your Thumbsticks
If you frequently play games that require you to use and click your thumbstick in a specific direction for prolonged periods, you might notice that your thumbstick starts to drift in that direction.
One way to fix this is gently lifting your thumbstick out of its housing and generously rotating it a few times before putting it back in. This will help re-center the mechanism inside the thumbstick and hopefully fix your PS5 controller drift.
Fix 4: Reset and Update Your DualSense Controller
While the PlayStation 5 controller drift is primarily due to hardware issues, you still want to cover all your bases and rule out any potential software issues that might be causing the problem. So, if the first three solutions have not fixed the stick drift, reset your DualSense controller. You will need a paper clip or a safety pin for this.
First, make sure your controller is turned off. Then, gently insert and hold down the paper clip or safety pin into the tiny hole on the back of your DualSense controller for five seconds. After the reset, try using your controller again and see if the issue has been resolved.
If resetting your controller doesn't work, resetting your Bluetooth connection might. To do this, go to Settings > Accessories > General > Turn Off Bluetooth. You will need your USB cable for this. Lastly, check if your console and DualSense controller are running the latest firmware.
For your controller, go to Settings > Accessories > Controller (General) > DualSense Wireless Controller Device Software. Your console should update automatically, but you can also trigger a manual update by going to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings > Update System Software.
Fix 5: Return Your DualSense Controller to Sony
If your DualSense controller is still under warranty and assuming you have your proof of purchase, you should be able to return it to Sony and get a free replacement. However, you use this as your last resort as it's the nuclear option.
Navigating the return process is reasonably simple. It is just a case of heading to the PlayStation.com Fix and Replace page, and from there, you can start your return. You can also track the return on that page to know when a replacement is on its way.
Just select the DualSense option, and the site will guide you through a range of questions to diagnose the issue and start your return. If you have any problems, you can always call PlayStation support. However, remember that you may need to wait a while before your call makes it to the front of the queue.
If your DualSense controller is out of warranty, you will have to get it to a repairer or purchase a new one. Considering the PlayStation 5 controller drift is quite common, you may want to invest in the more premium and expensive DualSense Edge controller, as it comes with a protective case, replaceable stick modules, and custom deadzones, which contribute to improving its longevity.
How Not to Fix PS5 Stick Drift
Now that we've told you some possible ways to fix the PS5 joystick drift, you also need to know what not to do.
First, don't take your PS5 controller apart. If you do, you will void the warranty, meaning that you can't return the DualSense to Sony for a replacement. You don't need to take it apart as you probably don't have the correct components to fix it with, anyway.
Second, while we recommend you clean your controller, we wouldn't suggest jumping in the shower with it or hosing it down in the garden; only use proper cleaning substances. However, you don't have to use alcohol, as there are several clever ways to use DIY cleaning slime or putty.
Third, treat your controller with care. Don't throw it if you lose a game, or you will damage the controller. Likewise, you don't have to press the thumbstick buttons too hard, as these are delicate components that are easy to operate. You don't have to pulverize them while you play. In addition, do not expose your DualSense controllers to extreme temperatures or store them in dusty places. Washing your hands before playing can also be useful to keep the controllers clean.
It goes without saying that the better you treat your controller, the longer it will last. As this is a problem with the thumbsticks, avoid operating them while you wait for levels to load; doing so can quickly deplete the life cycle of the delicate components inside.
Does Your PS5 Controller Drift?
If your controller drifts, try the above solutions and see if they work. Start with cleaning, and if that doesn't work, return the controller to Sony. In the meantime, some games allow you to change the deadzones, so you can still play, regardless.
Nobody wants to experience a defect when they get a new console, which is one reason not to love the flagship controller. There are obviously lots of reasons to love it, too, but DualSense drift is a problem that Sony needs to deal with sooner rather than later to keep its loyal PlayStation customers happy.