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How to connect a PS4 controller to a Mac

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Mac OS isn’t the gaming wasteland that it once was. The machines themselves are more powerful now, and an increasingly vast assortment of games, from AAA heavy-hitters to indie darlings, are baking in support for Apple’s PC hardware on day one.

It’s also easier than ever to get into the game thanks to Mac OS support for a variety of USB controllers. The PlayStation 4’s DualShock 4 is a particular favorite for those that seek an alternative to mouse/keyboard setups. All you need is a Bluetooth-ready controller, a mini-USB cable, and your Mac.

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Note: Before starting to connect a DualShock 4 to your Mac, we recommend you completely disconnect your PS4 console (if you have one). Doing so will help prevent you from accidentally turning on the console while syncing the controller to your machine.

Step 1: Turn on your Mac’s Bluetooth 

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You need to turn on your Mac’s Bluetooth functionality before you can properly connect your wireless PS4 controller to your machine. To do this, click the Apple icon in the top-left corner of the desktop, click System Preferences in the drop-down menu, and select the Bluetooth panel, then click Turn Bluetooth On.

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Step 2: Pair the PS4 controller via Bluetooth

Once you’ve activated Bluetooth on your Mac, simultaneously press and hold the PlayStation and Share buttons until your controller’s light bar begins to blink rapidly. The controller should automatically appear beneath the Devices list in the Bluetooth panel if your computer utilizes Mac OS X Mavericks or later. Otherwise, you will need to click Add Device and locate the controller.

Once done, highlight the controller in the panel, click Pair, and enter “0000” if prompted for a password. You should now be able to use the PS4 controller with any controller-compatible title available for your system.

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Emily Schiola
Emily Schiola
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