Set up a PlayStation controller on Shadow PC

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Updated

1 year ago

, by Shadow

Shadow PC supports PlayStation controllers using a wired USB or wireless Bluetooth connection. Some controllers may require additional configuration to help Shadow PC recognize your controller.

Connect your controller to Shadow PC

Wired USB

Wireless Bluetooth

Shadow PC can detect PlayStation controllers when plugged into your local device using a wired USB cable.

Open the Shadow PC launcher and click Start.
Use the USB cable to connect the PlayStation controller to the blue USB 3.0 port on your local device.
Note: If your device doesn't have a USB 3.0 port, you may continue to plug the device in as you normally would, but some features may not work.
When your controller is connected, a notification will appear at the top of the screen.
If a notification doesn't appear, restart Shadow PC while the controller is still plugged in.

Shadow PC can detect PlayStation controllers that are connected wirelessly.

Pair the PlayStation DualShock 4 or DualSense 5 controller with your local device via Bluetooth.
Open the Shadow PC launcher and click Start.
When your controller is connected, a notification will appear at the top of the screen.
If a notification doesn't appear, restart Shadow PC while the controller is still paired.

Note: You may also use a wireless adapter if the manufacturer supports this option. Plug the USB adapter into your local device, then pair the controller to the adapter via Bluetooth.

Related questions

How do I pair my controller to my local device?

For help pairing a controller with your local Bluetooth-capable device, choose your device's operating system:

Windows
macOS, AppleTV, and iOS
Android
Android TV

Why is Shadow PC unable to detect my controller?

Confirm your local device has detected your controller. Shadow PC can only detect controllers that are also detected by your local operating system.
Update your PlayStation Wireless controller.
Try forwarding your controller to Shadow PC from the Quick Menu.
Troubleshoot your connection. Your Internet connection may not meet the minimum requirements.
Make sure your local device meets Shadow PC's recommended requirements.

Note: If your local device does not meet the recommended requirements, it may not be capable of supporting all of Shadow PC's features and functionality, even if it meets the minimum requirements.

Why is my game unable to detect my controller?

Your game may work best with an Xbox controller. To have Shadow PC emulate your PlayStation controller as an Xbox controller, open the Quick Menu, then click Controllers & USB → Advanced Settings → PlayStation controllers extended compatibility.

Can Shadow PC support all of the features on my controller?

Shadow PC supports most PlayStation controller features, but they may not work if:

USB drivers are outdated
The Bluetooth software is too old
Your system is unable to emulate the controller

If some features are not working, you can:

Try forwarding your controller to Shadow PC from the Quick Menu.
Install third-party emulation software onto your local computer like DS4Windows.

Can I use a third-party PlayStation controller?

Yes, but third-party PlayStation controllers may behave unpredictably on Shadow PC. You may need additional software from the manufacturer to use the controller or its features.

Can I use the touchpad like a cursor?

Yes. Enable Gamepad as mouse in the Quick Menu to control the cursor with the touchpad.

Disclaimer: Any third-party software or hardware mentioned in this article is not sponsored by, distributed by, or licensed to Shadow. Using additional software or hardware does not guarantee that your PlayStation controller will be compatible with Shadow PC or your device.

Still have questions after reading this article?

Check out our other articles or contact Shadow Support.