How to Reset a PS4 Controller (Simple Step-by-Step Guide)

If your PS4 controller is not working properly—like it won’t connect, buttons don’t respond, or it keeps disconnecting—you may need to reset it.

Don’t worry. This guide will walk you through it in a very simple way, step by step.

What Does “Reset” Mean?

Resetting your controller means starting it fresh again, like when it was new.

It can fix problems like:

• Controller not connecting
• Buttons not working
• Controller acting strange

Method 1: Hard Reset (Best and Easiest)

This is the main method you should use.

What you need:

• A paperclip or something small and pointy

Step-by-Step Instructions

Turn off your PS4

• Make sure it is fully off, not in rest mode

Turn your controller over

• Look at the back of the controller

Find the tiny hole

• It is near the L2 button (top left on the back)

Put the paperclip into the hole

• Gently push it in

Hold it for 5 seconds

• This presses the reset button inside

Let go and wait a few seconds

Now reconnect the controller:

Plug the controller into the PS4 with a USB cable

Turn on your PS4

Press the PS button in the middle

Your controller should now be reset and working again.

Method 2: Soft Reset (If You Have Another Controller)

This method is easier, but you need a second working controller.

Steps:

Go to Settings on your PS4

Go to Devices → Bluetooth Devices

Find the controller that is not working

Press Options → Forget Device

Turn off the PS4

Plug in the broken controller with a cable

Turn the PS4 back on

Press the PS button

This removes the old connection and sets it up again.

Which Method Should You Use?

• Use Hard Reset if:
  • Controller won’t connect at all
  • Lights keep flashing
  • Nothing responds
• Use Soft Reset if:
  • Controller connects but acts weird

Important Tips

• Always use a working USB cable
• Make sure your controller is charged
• If it still doesn’t work, the controller might be damaged

Final Thoughts

Resetting a PS4 controller is simple once you know where the hidden button is.

Just remember:

• Find the tiny hole on the back
• Press it for 5 seconds
• Reconnect with a cable

That’s it. You’ve reset your controller.