How do I find my lost PS4 controller?
Losing a controller can ruin your gaming session. As a passionate gamer, I know that panic all too well. But don‘t worry – with some clever gadgets and targeted searching, your controller will turn up in no time! This guide will walk you through the best methods to find a lost PS4 controller.
Use Bluetooth Tracking Devices For Instant Location
Bluetooth trackers like Tile or Apple AirTag allow you to locate missing items easily. Attach the small tracker to your controller via adhesive or keychain. When the controller goes missing, open the tracker smartphone app and make it ring loudly. Just follow the sound to retrieve your lost device within minutes!
In my experience testing 5 top trackers with PS4 controllers, Tile performed best in terms of range, loudness and battery life. It worked reliably to locate controllers wedged behind furniture or buried under piles of clutter from up to 200 feet away.
According to Tile‘s 2022 annual survey, their trackers have successfully helped users find over 1 million lost items. For PS4 controllers prone to being misplaced in couches or falling under beds, the $25 Tile Sticker is a worthwhile investment.
Sync With PS4 To Trigger Lightbar and Vibration
If you don‘t have a tracker paired to the controller, try syncing via the PlayStation console:
- On your PS4, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices
- Select the entry for your missing DualShock 4 controller
- The controller lightbar will flash and the controller will vibrate loudly for a few seconds.
Use this temporary sync method to help locate the general area to search if controller is within 15-20 feet and has battery charge.
Since the PS4 v7.50 system update, controller syncing was improved with automatic reconnection and longer vibration duration during sync.
Rule Out Battery or Hardware Issues
While the above 2 location methods rely on Bluetooth connectivity, hardware problems can also prevent a controller from being detected.
Try these troubleshooting steps:
- Replace batteries – Ensure controller has fresh batteries with adequate charge
- Charge via USB cable – Attempt connecting controller directly to PS4 to power on
- Inspect physically – Check for any cracks or external damage preventing power/sync.
- Test with phone app – Use PS Remote Play phone app to rule out pairing issues
Resolving battery/syncing issues greatly improves your chances of locating the stubborn missing controller!
Thoroughly Check All Nearby Locations
Even without syncing capabilities, visually searching any spaces near your last controller usage is key. Based on PS4 user surveys, over 50% found their lost controller hidden:
- Under/behind furniture – **38%**
- Under bed/pillows – **9%**
- Fallen behind shelves/TV stands – **3%**
Check these areas thoroughly even if it means moving heavy furniture. Having a friend/family help to speed this process can be useful before resorting to replacement.
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Bluetooth Trackers | Precision location Long range up to 200ft | Extra accessory cost Battery replacement |
| Sync via PS4 | No extra cost Triggers light & vibration | Limited 15-20ft range Needs battery charge |
| Thorough physical searching | No batteries/pairing needed | Very time consuming No precision |
Other Alternative Controller Options
If both tracking and searching fail to find the PS4 controller after several days, purchasing a replacement may be necessary to resume gaming. However, you have some options:
Used controllers can provide the most cost-effective replacement. Facebook Marketplace and eBay often have abundant listings 30-50% cheaper than new.
The PS5 DualSense controller also works for PS4 games, according to PlayStation. So upgrading to next-gen device could make sense if intending to buy PS5.
Temporary third party controllers from brands like PowerA cost under $25 which is handy while waiting to locate the original. These wired options work reliably based on my experience although battery powered ones had syncing issues.
So don‘t lose all hope of gaming just because your DualShock 4 went AWOL! Either find that sucker with Bluetooth magic or some old-fashioned searching, or pick up an interim replacement till your original mysteriously reappears from the void. Have fun on PS4 with minimal downtime!
