There has been an unfortunate defect with the DualSense controller on the PS5 since it was released. It appears that the DualShock 5 controller suffers from drifting similar to the DualShock 4 that came with the PS4. You can try these things to fix your DualSense if it is drifting.
DualSense Drift: What Is It?
PS5 DualSense drift occurs when the controller is not touched while movement is registered on screen. If you don’t actually touch the DualSense, your character might move in Fortnite.
DualSense drift is responsible for this. It is essentially a matter of prematurely replacing the joystick sensors within the pad. Wear and tear, gunk buildup, and warping are all signs that these can wear away quickly. As some components of the PS5 controller are prone to wear and tear, DualSense drift is inevitable.
DualSense won’t last if you do this. If the new controller fails after a few months, nobody wants to spend $70 on another one. It is possible to fix DualSense drift by taking a few steps.
Fix 1: Make sure your DualSense controller’s input threshold is adjusted.
Deadzones are areas where the thumbstick does not register any movement. You may be able to completely eliminate light drift if you are experiencing only light drift. Only certain games will benefit from this fix. A controller threshold can be adjusted in some (but not all) games by going into the controller settings. This setting can be seen in Call Of Duty: Black Ops Cold War.
You can increase the deadzone size/input threshold on the right thumbstick if you are experiencing slight DualSense drift to the right. Until the stick is pushed out of its threshold, the controller won’t register movement. It’s disappointing that Sony hasn’t included such a feature at the system level, as this would be a relatively easy fix. You can adjust the deadzone from the main controller menu if it is included in a controller or console update. The temporary solution would at least keep people happy for longer.
Fix 2: DualSense controllers should be thoroughly cleaned.
I really recommend that you start cleaning your controllers if you have never done so before. Gamer’s hands sweat when they play. Afterwards, your controller is covered in residue. Everywhere there’s a recess, it gets under the shoulder triggers, in the face buttons, etc. The thumbsticks also get dirty as a result. DualSense drift can be caused by grime living here, and it’s the perfect place for it to do so. PS5 controllers must be cleaned.
Isopropyl alcohol in high concentrations and a cotton swab are the most effective tools. You should get the highest concentration of alcohol you can afford. Water damage to internal circuitry is less likely if the concentration is higher. Before you start cleaning the controller, make sure it is disconnected and turned off. A failure to do so could result in further damage. Using an alcohol-soaked cotton swab, gently clean each thumbstick and its housing after dipping it in the alcohol.
Just dab a light amount of liquid on it when cleaning. As the thumbstick is what introduces dirt into the controller, make sure you move it around in the chassis and clean the bearing properly. Dust or any other particles trapped underneath the thumbstick can also be blown off to fix DualSense stick drift. If you want to do this, you can use a dust blower or compressed air. As you blow air into the controller, move the thumbstick in full circles.
Fix 3: Thumbsticks should be lifted and rotated.
For prolonged periods, if you use and click your thumbstick in a specific direction often, you may notice that your thumbstick drifts in that direction. Before putting back in your thumbstick, rotate it a few times after gently lifting it out of its housing. This will correct PS5 controller drift by re-centering the mechanism inside the thumbstick.
Fix 4: Your DualSense controller needs to be reset and updated.
You want to rule out any potential software issues as well as hardware issues that may be causing the PlayStation 5 controller drift. To fix the stick drift, reset your DualSense controller if the first three solutions didn’t work. Using a paper clip or safety pin will be necessary. Start by turning off your controller. Once the paper clip or safety pin is inserted, hold down the paper clip for five seconds. If the issue persists after resetting your controller, try using it again.
It may be necessary to reset your Bluetooth connection if resetting your controller does not work. Turn off Bluetooth by going to Settings > Accessories > General > Turn Off Bluetooth. The USB cable will be needed for this. Make sure the DualSense controller and console have the latest firmware.
Select Settings > Accessories > Controller (General) > DualSense Wireless Controller Device Software. Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings > Update System Software should trigger an automatic update, but you may also need to trigger a manual update.
Fix 5: Returned DualSense controllers to Sony.
DualSense controllers that are still covered by warranty can be returned to Sony for a free replacement if they have your proof of purchase. Since this is a nuclear option, it should be used as a last resort. Returns are reasonably simple to navigate. You can begin your return by visiting PlayStation.com Fix and Replace and following the instructions. The page also lets you know when a replacement will be sent.
Once you’ve selected DualSense, you’ll be guided through a series of questions to get a diagnosis and start the return process. PlayStation support can always assist you if you have problems. Nevertheless, you may have to wait a while before your call is answered.
The No-No to PS5 Stick Drift!
Having explained some possible solutions, you need to know what you shouldn’t do.
Firstly, don’t dismantle your PS5 controller. The warranty will be voided, which means that Sony cannot replace the DualSense. Taking it apart doesn’t make sense because you probably won’t have the correct parts to fix it. Furthermore, you should never use the controller as a bath toy, or to hose it down in the garden; only use proper cleaning agents. It is not necessary to use alcohol to clean. You can use slime or putty instead.
Lastly, make sure you take care of your controller. The controller will be damaged if you throw it if you lose a game. A thumbstick button is similarly easy to operate due to its delicate components. The game doesn’t require you to crush them. Obviously, your controller will last longer if you treat it well. When waiting for levels to load, avoid operating the thumbsticks as this will shorten their life cycle.
What is the cause of your PS5 controller drifting?
Trying the above solutions may result in your controller drifting. Ensure that the controller is clean, then return it to Sony if it doesn’t work. As a result, you can still play some games by changing the deadzones.
Getting a new console is exciting, but there’s nothing more frustrating than experiencing a defect. To keep PlayStation customers happy, Sony needs to resolve DualSense drift sooner than later to ensure that its loyal customers can continue to enjoy its games.