To charge a PlayStation controller, connect it to your PlayStation console (PS5 or PS4) using the included USB cable. The method is identical for both systems, but the cable type and console settings differ: the PS5 DualSense uses a USB-C cable, while the PS4 DUALSHOCK 4 uses a micro-USB cable. Below are the exact steps for each controller and console, plus alternative charging methods and how to verify a full charge. If you want to plan your gaming session around a full charge, knowing the typical PlayStation controller charging time can help. If the light bar isn't behaving as expected, you can know if PS5 controller is charging by interpreting its specific color pulses.
How to charge a PlayStation controller: PS5 vs. PS4
The DualSense controller (PS5) has a USB Type-C port on its top edge, while the DUALSHOCK 4 (PS4) has a micro-USB port on its back, under the light bar. Use the correct cable for your controller: USB-C for DualSense, micro-USB for DUALSHOCK 4. Both controllers charge via the console's USB ports, but the PS5 and PS4 have different rest mode settings you must enable for charging while the console is off.
Charge your DualSense controller with the PS5 console
Connect the USB Type-C end of the cable to the controller and the other end (USB-A or USB-C) to a USB port on your PS5 console. The controller charges while the console is on. To charge in rest mode, go to Settings > System > Power Saving > Features Available in Rest Mode, then set "Supply Power to USB Ports" to "Always" or "3 Hours". PS5 consoles from the CFI-2000 model group offer an "Adaptive" charging setting in rest mode, which optimizes charging time based on the controller's remaining battery level to save power. A full charge from empty takes about 2 to 3 hours using the console.
Charge your DUALSHOCK 4 controller with the PS4 console
Connect the micro-USB end of the cable to the controller's port (on the back, under the light bar) and the USB-A end to a USB port on your PS4 console. To charge in rest mode, go to Settings > Power Save Settings > Set Features Available in Rest Mode, then select "Supply Power to USB Ports" and choose "Always" or "3 Hours". A full charge from empty typically takes 3 to 4 hours via the console's USB port.
Using an official PlayStation charging station
The official DualSense Charging Station lets you charge one or two controllers simultaneously by aligning their charging terminals with the station's connectors, no cable needed. Just place each controller on the station with the charging pins touching the metal contacts on the controller's bottom. The DUALSHOCK 4 Charging Station works differently: it charges controllers by connecting to the extension port on the bottom of the controller. Place the controller onto the dock, pressing down gently until it clicks into the extension port. Both stations require connection to a power source via their included USB cable (plug into the console or a USB wall adapter).
How to charge with a wall charger, power bank, or PC
For a wall charger, use a reputable 5V USB wall charger (1A output recommended for DUALSHOCK 4) and the correct cable for your controller. For a power bank, connect the cable to the power bank's USB output port; this is ideal for on-the-go charging. For a PC or laptop, plug the cable into any USB port on the computer; this method works but may be slower due to lower power output from standard USB ports. Regardless of the power source, always use a "charge and sync" or "charging and data" USB cable, as "charge only" cables may not work. Using the controller while it's charging may extend the overall charging time.
How to know when your controller is fully charged
The DualSense controller's light bar slowly blinks orange while charging in rest mode and turns off when fully charged. To check the battery level on PS5, press the PS button to display the Control Center, then select "Accessories". The DUALSHOCK 4 controller's light bar also slowly blinks orange while charging and turns off when full. On PS4, press and hold the PS button to display the Quick Menu, where the battery percentage appears next to the controller icon.
