PC gamers using a PlayStation 5 DualSense controller have always had one major problem:
wireless support is incomplete.
Now, a small open-source project may have solved that—for good.
The problem: wireless DualSense loses its best features
When you connect a DualSense controller to a PC via Bluetooth:
- Adaptive triggers stop working
- Haptic feedback is disabled
- Overall experience feels worse than on PS5
That’s why many players prefer Xbox controllers on PC—they just work without extra setup.
The solution: trick your PC into thinking it’s wired
A new project called DS5Dongle changes that.
Here’s how it works:
- Uses a tiny Raspberry Pi Pico 2W (~$7)
- Acts as a wireless bridge
- Makes Windows think the controller is wired instead of Bluetooth
That one trick restores:
- Adaptive triggers
- Full haptic feedback
- Better compatibility across games
It even matches PS5-level performance
The latest update adds:
- 1000Hz polling rate (same as PS5)
That means:
- Faster input response
- More precise controls
In other words, you’re getting close to a native console experience—without plugging in a cable.
Setup is surprisingly simple
You don’t need advanced hardware knowledge. The process is basic:
- Plug the Pico 2W into your PC
- Install the DS5Dongle firmware
- Pair your DualSense controller
- Start playing
Once connected, the controller behaves like a standard gamepad—just with all features unlocked.
Why this matters
This fixes one of the biggest gaps between PlayStation and Xbox controllers on PC.
| Controller | PC experience |
|---|---|
| Xbox controller | Native support, full features |
| DualSense (Bluetooth) | Missing key features |
| DualSense (with DS5Dongle) | Full features restored |
The catch: it’s still a DIY solution
There are a few limitations:
- Requires buying and setting up extra hardware
- Not officially supported by Sony or Microsoft
- Depends on community updates
But for $7, the barrier to entry is very low.
The takeaway: a small hack with a big impact
This is one of those rare cases where a simple workaround solves a long-standing problem.
For PC gamers who prefer the DualSense:
- You no longer have to choose between wireless and full features
- You can have both
It’s not an official fix—but it might be the best one available right now.
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