DS4Windows | DS5Windows

DS4Windows is a free, open-source tool that lets you use PlayStation controllers on your Windows PC. This helpful software makes your computer recognize your DualShock or DualSense controller as an Xbox controller, solving common compatibility issues with PC games that don’t support PlayStation devices.

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What Is DS4Windows?

DS4Windows works as a virtual emulator that bridges the gap between PlayStation hardware and Windows games. Originally created by Jays2Kings and now maintained by Ryochan7 and the community, this controller software acts as a translator between your PS4 controller and your computer.

When you plug in a PlayStation controller, many PC games won’t recognize it properly. DS4Windows solves this problem by creating a virtual Xbox controller using the ViGEmBus driver. This makes games think you’re using an Xbox gamepad, ensuring full functionality and smooth gameplay.

The application supports several controllers, including:

Gaming Controllers

🎮

DualShock 3

PlayStation 3

🎯

DualShock 4

PlayStation 4

⚡

DualSense

PlayStation 5

🎲

Nintendo Switch Pro

Nintendo Switch

🕹️

Joy-Cons

Nintendo Switch

Why Use DS4Windows?

Most Windows games are designed to work with Xbox input. When you connect a PlayStation controller directly, you often face issues like:

Unresponsive buttons
No controller detection
Limited functionality
Missing features

DS4Windows offers several important benefits:

Full compatibility with games that only support Xbox controllers
Button remapping for customized controls
Wireless connectivity through Bluetooth
Reduced input lag for responsive gameplay
Profile management for different games
No cost unlike paid alternatives

System Requirements

Minimum specifications needed

Component	Requirement
🖥️ Operating System	Windows 10 or 11 (recommended)
⚡ Processor	Any modern x86/x64 processor
💾 RAM	At least 2 GB
💿 Storage	Less than 50 MB
📶 Bluetooth	Version 4.0+ (for wireless)
🔌 USB	Standard micro-USB cable (for wired)

You’ll also need these software components:

.NET 8 Desktop Runtime (x64)
Visual C++ Redistributable (2015-2019)
ViGEmBus Driver (for controller emulation)
HidHide Driver (to prevent double input)

Key Features of DS4Windows

DS4Windows Features

🎮

Xbox Controller Emulation

DS4Windows makes your PlayStation controller function as an Xbox controller, ensuring it works with games on platforms like Steam, Epic Games, and Battle.net. This emulation creates a seamless experience with nearly all PC games.

⚙️

Button Remapping

The comprehensive button mapping system lets you reassign buttons to different functions, map controller buttons to keyboard keys, create custom layouts for different games, and set up macros for complex actions. This flexibility ensures your controller works exactly how you want it to.

💡

Customizable Light Bar

Take control of your DualShock 4’s light bar with extensive customization options. You can change colors and brightness, link light color to battery level, create custom lighting effects, or completely disable the light to save battery life during extended gaming sessions.

👆

Touchpad Functions

The touchpad on your DualShock 4 becomes incredibly versatile with mouse control for navigating menus, gesture support including taps and swipes, custom actions assigned to different movements, and multi-touch functionality for advanced controls that enhance your gaming experience.

📋

Profile Management

Create and save multiple controller profiles for different games or applications with automatic profile switching when launching games. Store your preferred button layouts and sensitivity settings, share profiles with other users, and import profiles from the community to quickly optimize your controller for any game.

📶

Wireless Support

Connect your controller with maximum flexibility using Bluetooth for wireless gameplay, USB cable for reliable wired connections, or the Sony Wireless Adapter for official wireless support. DS4Windows supports all connection methods to ensure you can play however you prefer.

🎯

Motion Controls

DS4Windows fully supports gyroscope and motion sensors in compatible controllers, allowing you to use tilt controls in racing games, enable motion aiming in shooters, calibrate sensors for better accuracy, and map motion gestures to specific actions for immersive gameplay.

How to Download and Install DS4Windows?

Downloading DS4Windows is a simple process that gives you access to powerful controller customization. Follow these step-by-step instructions to get your PlayStation controller working properly on your Windows PC.

Step 1: Download from Official Sources

Visit the official DS4Windows website at ds4-windows.com or the GitHub repository
Look for the latest x64 release package (usually around 50 MB)
Choose between: .zip file (can be opened with Windows) / .7z file (smaller size but requires 7-Zip to extract)
Avoid unofficial websites that might include malware or outdated versions

Step 2: Extract the Files

Find the downloaded file in your Downloads folder
Right-click the file and select “Extract All” (for .zip) or use 7-Zip (for .7z)
Choose an easy-to-access location.
Avoid extracting to restricted folders like Program Files to prevent permission issues

Step 3: Run the Initial Setup

Open the extracted folder and double-click DS4Windows.exe
On first launch, you’ll need to choose where to store user data:
- AppData folder (recommended): Keeps settings in your user profile
- Program folder: Stores settings in the same folder as the application
Click Step 1: Install the DS4 Driver if you’re on Windows 7 or 8.1
Click Step 2: Install the ViGEmBus Driver (required for all Windows versions)

Step 4: Install Required Drivers

DS4Windows needs specific drivers to function properly:

ViGEmBus Driver (mandatory):
- This creates the virtual Xbox controller
- Follow the installer prompts
- Restart your computer if prompted
HidHide Driver (strongly recommended):
- This prevents the double input issue
- Install it from the drivers screen in DS4Windows
- Follow the on-screen instructions
FakerInput Driver (optional):
- Only needed for advanced keyboard/mouse emulation
- Install if you plan to use these features

Step 5: Connect Your Controller

USB Connection (Wired)

Use a quality micro-USB cable that supports data transfer
Connect the cable to your controller and a USB port on your PC
Windows should make a sound when it detects the controller
DS4Windows should show the controller in its Controllers tab

Bluetooth Connection (Wireless)

Make sure your PC has Bluetooth 4.0 or newer
Put your controller in pairing mode:
- For DualShock 4: Hold the PS button and Share button together until the light bar flashes
- For DualSense: Hold the PS button and Create button together until the lights flash
Open Windows Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices
Click “Add Bluetooth or other device“
Select your controller when it appears in the list
Complete the pairing process (use PIN 0000 if prompted)

Step 6: Configure HidHide to Prevent Double Input

The double input issue occurs when games detect both your real controller and the virtual one:

Launch HidHide Configuration Client from the Start menu
Check “Enable device hiding“
Click “Applications” tab and add DS4Windows.exe
Go to “Devices” tab and check your real controller
This ensures only DS4Windows can see your controller, while games see only the virtual Xbox controller

Step 7: Set Up Your First Profile

In DS4Windows, go to the Profiles tab
The Default profile uses Xbox 360 controller emulation
You can customize this profile or create a new one:
- Click “New” to create a profile
- Give it a recognizable name (like a game title)
- Adjust button mappings, sensitivity, and special features
- Save your changes

Step 8: Test Your Controller

Go to the Controllers tab in DS4Windows
Check that your controller is recognized and showing input
Test all buttons, sticks, and triggers to ensure they work
The virtual controller should now work with most PC games

Step 9: Launch DS4Windows on Startup (Optional)

To make DS4Windows start automatically with Windows:

Go to the Settings tab in DS4Windows
Check “Start with Windows“
This ensures your controller is always ready to use

Preventing Common Issues

Solving the Double Input Problem

The “double input” issue happens when games detect both your real controller and the virtual one, causing:

Duplicate commands
Conflicting inputs
Unplayable gameplay

To fix this:

Install the HidHide driver during setup
Configure HidHide to hide your physical controller
Allow only DS4Windows to access the controller
Avoid using the legacy “Hide DS4 Controllers” option

Steam Configuration

If you use Steam, adjust these settings to prevent conflicts:

Open Steam Settings
Go to Controller > General Controller Settings
Uncheck “PlayStation Configuration Support“
Uncheck “Xbox Configuration Support“

Reducing Input Lag

To minimize input delay:

Use a wired connection when possible
Update your Bluetooth drivers if using wireless
Disable “Enable output data” in controller settings
Close unnecessary background applications
Keep DS4Windows updated to the latest version

Supported DS4 Controllers & Gamepads

DS4Windows supports a wide range of controllers, with each receiving different levels of compatibility and feature support. The software continuously adds new device support through regular updates. Here’s a comprehensive list of compatible controllers you can use with DS4Windows:

🕹️ DualShock 4 (DS4) v1

Supported since v1.4.53

The original PS4 controller offers complete integration with DS4Windows, including:

Full button functionality
Touchpad support
Light bar customization
Motion controls
Rumble feedback

This first-generation controller is recognized instantly and works with all profile settings and customization options.

🕹️ DualShock 4 (DS4) v2

Supported since v1.4.53

The revised model with the light bar strip on the touchpad includes several improvements:

Better Bluetooth connectivity
Reduced input lag
Improved battery life
Enhanced thumbstick durability

All features work perfectly with DS4Windows, making this the ideal controller for most users.

🎮 DualSense (PS5 Controller)

Supported since v2.1.17

The newest PlayStation controller works with most basic functions:

Standard button inputs
Touchpad functionality
Basic gyro controls

However, some advanced features have limited support:

Adaptive triggers work only in basic mode
Haptic feedback is reduced to standard rumble
Built-in microphone is not fully supported

🎮 DualShock 3 (DS3)

Supported since v2.2.10

The PS3 controller requires additional setup:

Needs DsHidMini drivers to work properly
Requires Bluetooth 2.0 or newer for wireless connection
Provides basic rumble functionality
Supports LED control
Lacks touchpad and advanced features

🎮 DualSense Edge

Supported since v3.2.8

Sony’s premium controller receives basic support:

Core button mapping functionality
Standard profile options
Limited access to the extra back buttons
Basic support for swappable components

Third-Party PlayStation Controllers

🎮 Razer Raiju

Supported since v1.4.99

This premium third-party controller offers:

Full support for both wired and wireless connections
Complete button mapping capabilities
Extra programmable buttons recognized by DS4Windows
Tournament-grade responsiveness

🎮 Razer Raiju Tournament Edition

Supported since v1.7.8

The tournament version includes:

Advanced remapping for competitive play
Hair trigger mode support
Custom sensitivity profiles
Multi-function buttons

🎮 Nacon Revolution Unlimited Pro

Supported since v1.7.20

This professional controller works with:

All major DS4Windows features
Custom button layouts
Adjustable weight system (physical feature)
Extra programmable buttons

🎮 Astro C40

Supported since v2.1.4

The modular professional controller supports:

Custom button mapping
Module recognition for swappable components
Trigger sensitivity adjustments
Advanced profile options

🎮 Hori PS4 Mini Controller

Supported since v1.4.119

This compact controller offers:

Basic input functionality
Standard button mapping
Simplified controls (lacks some features of full-size controllers)
Wired-only connection

🎮 Steel Play Metaltech P4 (Wired)

Supported since v1.7.17

This wired third-party option provides:

Full DS4Windows support
Standard customization options
Reliable wired connection
Budget-friendly alternative

🎮 PS4 Fun Controller

Supported since v1.7.4

This basic third-party controller offers:

General compatibility with DS4Windows
Standard customization options
Basic functionality for casual gaming

🔌 Sony Wireless Adapter

Supported since v1.4.53

This official Sony accessory enables:

Seamless wireless connection for DS4 controllers
Reduced latency compared to standard Bluetooth
Simplified pairing process
Better range than most built-in Bluetooth adapters

🎮 Switch Pro Controller

Supported since v2.1.16

Nintendo’s premium controller has partial support:

Motion sensor functionality works well
Button mapping is fully supported
LED indicators have limited or no support
HD rumble features are not fully implemented

🎮 Specialist PS4 Controllers

Supported since v2.1.6

Three unidentified specialist PS4 models offer:

Basic compatibility
Standard features
Limited documentation on specific models

Compatibility Notes

When using these controllers with DS4Windows, keep in mind:

Firmware updates for your controller may affect compatibility
Newer versions of DS4Windows may improve support for specific controllers
Wired connections typically offer better response times than wireless
Original Sony controllers generally have the most complete feature support
Third-party options may have different button layouts or missing features

DS4Windows continues to add support for new controllers with each update, expanding the range of devices you can use with your PC games.

Battery Management

DS4Windows helps you monitor and extend your controller’s battery life:

Battery level indicator in the app interface
Light bar color changes based on battery status
Option to disable power-draining features
Low battery alerts to prevent unexpected disconnections

Customization Options

Beyond basic features, DS4Windows offers advanced customization:

Macro creation for complex button combinations
Sensitivity curves for sticks and triggers
Vibration intensity adjustment
Auto-profiles based on active applications
Custom actions for special button combinations

Frequently Asked Questions

DS4Windows FAQ

What is DS4Windows, and why do I need it?

DS4Windows is a free, open-source tool that lets you use PlayStation controllers on your Windows PC by making them work as Xbox controllers. You need it because many PC games only support Xbox controllers natively, not PlayStation ones.

Is DS4Windows safe to use?

Yes, DS4Windows is safe when downloaded from official sources like ds4-windows.com or the official GitHub repository. The software is open-source, allowing the community to review the code for security issues.

Does DS4Windows cost money?

No, DS4Windows is completely free to download and use. It’s an open-source project maintained by community developers.

How do I download and install DS4Windows?

Download the latest version from the official website, extract the files to an accessible folder, run DS4Windows.exe, and follow the prompts to install required drivers like ViGEmBus and HidHide.

What are the system requirements for DS4Windows?

DS4Windows works best on Windows 10/11, requires less than 50MB of storage, .NET 8 Runtime, Visual C++ Redistributable, and Bluetooth 4.0+ for wireless connections.

Do I need admin rights to install DS4Windows?

Yes, you need administrator privileges to install the required drivers. However, once installed, you can run DS4Windows as a standard user.

Why isn’t my controller detected by DS4Windows?

Make sure your controller is properly connected via a data-capable USB cable or correctly paired via Bluetooth. Try a different USB port or update your Bluetooth drivers if problems persist.

Can I use DS4Windows with a wireless connection?

Yes, DS4Windows supports both wired (USB) and wireless (Bluetooth) connections. For wireless, your PC needs Bluetooth 4.0 or newer, and the controller must be properly paired.

How do I connect my PlayStation controller via Bluetooth?

Put your controller in pairing mode (hold PS + Share buttons until the light flashes), open Windows Bluetooth settings, select “Add Bluetooth device,” and choose your controller from the list.

How do I fix the double input issue?

The double input issue occurs when games detect both your physical controller and the virtual one. Install and configure the HidHide driver to hide your real controller from games while allowing DS4Windows to access it.

Can I use DS4Windows with Steam games?

Yes, but you should disable Steam’s PlayStation Configuration Support and Xbox Configuration Support in Steam settings to prevent conflicts with DS4Windows’ mappings.

Does DS4Windows work with all PC games?

DS4Windows works with most PC games that support Xbox controllers. However, some games with special anti-cheat systems might block controller emulation software.

Why does my controller have input lag with DS4Windows?

Input lag can be caused by Bluetooth interference, a low-quality USB cable, or certain DS4Windows settings. Try using a wired connection, updating your Bluetooth drivers, or disabling the “Enable output data” option.

Why does my controller disconnect randomly?

Random disconnections can be caused by low battery, Bluetooth interference, or driver issues. Try using a wired connection, updating your Bluetooth drivers, or checking for USB power management settings.

How can I improve battery life when using DS4Windows?

Disable the light bar or reduce its brightness, turn off controller vibration, and enable power-saving options in DS4Windows. Also, disconnect the controller when not in use.

How do I reduce latency for competitive gaming?

Use a wired connection instead of Bluetooth, disable unnecessary features like light bar and rumble, close background applications, and keep DS4Windows updated to the latest version.

Can I customize button mappings in DS4Windows?

Yes, DS4Windows offers complete button remapping capabilities. You can reassign any button to another button, keyboard key, mouse action, or even complex macros.

How do I create and use different profiles?

Go to the Profiles tab in DS4Windows, click “New” to create a profile, customize your settings, and save it with a name. You can manually switch profiles or set them to activate automatically with specific games.

Can I use gyro controls with DS4Windows?

Yes, DS4Windows supports gyroscope and motion controls for compatible controllers like the DualShock 4 and DualSense. You can map motion gestures to buttons, mouse movements, or other actions.

Does DS4Windows work with PS5 DualSense controllers?

Yes, DS4Windows supports the DualSense controller with most basic functions, though some advanced features like adaptive triggers have limited functionality.

Can I use DS4Windows with DualShock 3 (PS3) controllers?

Yes, but you’ll need additional DsHidMini drivers. Support for DualShock 3 is more limited than for newer controllers.

Does DS4Windows support Nintendo Switch Pro controllers?

Yes, DS4Windows supports the Switch Pro Controller with motion sensors, though some features like HD rumble have limited or no support.

What should I do if games still don’t recognize my controller?

Make sure HidHide is properly configured, restart DS4Windows as administrator, check if any other controller software is causing conflicts, and verify that the game supports Xbox controllers.

How do I update DS4Windows to the latest version?

DS4Windows can check for updates automatically. Alternatively, visit the official website or GitHub repository to download the latest version, then extract and replace the existing files.

Why does my controller vibrate continuously or incorrectly?

This can happen due to game settings or profile issues. Try disabling and re-enabling vibration in DS4Windows, or create a new profile with adjusted vibration settings.

What does “Virtual controller failed to connect” error mean?

This usually indicates a problem with the ViGEmBus driver. Try reinstalling the driver, restarting your computer, or running DS4Windows as administrator to resolve this issue.