How to Fix PS5 DualSense Analog Drift

Starting, the all-new DualSense controller of the PlayStation 5 console, users are getting several issues with performance and longevity. The DualSense...

Subodh Gupta

Last updated on October 5, 2023

Subodh Gupta

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Subodh loves to write content whether it may be tech-related or other. After writing on tech blog for a year, he becomes passionate about it. He loves playing games and listening to music. Apart from blogging, he is addictive to the gaming PC builds and smartphone leaks.

Starting, the all-new DualSense controller of the PlayStation 5 console, users are getting several issues with performance and longevity. The DualSense controller seems to use the same analog sticks as the PS4’s DualShock 4 controller. That means the analog sticks and the other buttons are prone to get damaged or loose very quickly. Many reports are coming out that the PS5 DualSense controller users are encountering the Analog Drift issue.

So, if you’re also one of them, check out this article to know more about it. We’ll also cover if there is any possible way to avoid such issues or prevent your controller sticks from getting damaged easily. Recently, multiple reports have appeared on several online forums that the R2 button is getting looser within a couple of days of use. Meanwhile, some unfortunate users say that the DualSense controller’s adaptive triggers are breaking somehow.

How to Fix PS5 DualSense Analog Drift

Although the affected players can get it repaired under the warranty period, it’s not ideal for a month-old PlayStation controller. Users are literally disappointed with endless PS5 errors, game errors, crashes, compatibility issues, and now the analog stick drifting issue. So, without getting further ado, let’s jump into it.

How to Fix PS5 DualSense Analog Drift

1. Check for Updates

Make sure that there is no update pending for your PS5 console as well as the DualSense controller. It may take a while to check for updates and install it but definitely boost your user experience. Sometimes it can also be possible that either you haven’t updated the firmware for a while or you’ve somehow skipped the update.

Go to the Settings menu (gear icon) from the PlayStation home screen.
Next, you’ll need to choose System.
Select the System Software Update and Settings option.
Here you’ll be able to set automatic updates. Alternatively, you can also search for available updates manually.

4. Reset DualSense Controller

Needless to say that by resetting the console or controller to its default factory settings can fix multiple bugs, errors, lags, performance issues, connectivity issues, etc, and so the DualSense controller. It can fix the analog stick drifting issue. But how to do that? Well, take a quick look below:

First of all, you’ll need a paper clip or a SIM ejector pin.
Now, look for a tiny hole at the backside of your DualSense controller.
There is a button inside the hole which will forcefully reset your DualSense controller to its factory defaults.

How to Fix PS5 DualSense Analog Drift — Image Source: PlayStation

So, you’ll need to insert the paper clip or SIM ejector pin inside the hole and gently long-press the button for a few seconds.
Once the reset is done, you’ll have to connect the controller via a USB cable to connect it to your PlayStation 5.

If this method doesn’t work for you, try another one.

5. Clean Analog Sticks and Remove Thumb Grips

Just use a microfiber cloth with alcohol or isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe out the dirt or moisture from the DualSense analog sticks. Additionally, you should also try removing the thumb grips from your controller and try cleaning the movable areas to smooth the thumbstick movement.

6. Check Nothing Blocking Controller and PS5

Though the Bluetooth connectivity works pretty well without any hiccups or input lags, even from another room, it’s always better to keep the console and controller closer for uninterrupted connectivity.

Additionally, keep in mind that no obstacles are blocking the way between your DualSense controller and PS5 console.

7. Go for Repair under Warranty

If none of the methods worked for you, try following the warranty claim for your PS5 and its DualSense controller from the official PlayStation website according to your region. If your console and controller are still under warranty period & you don’t want to keep the analog stick drifting issue for long, ask for repair or replacement.

That’s it, guys. We hope you’ve found this guide useful. If you’ve any queries, you can comment below.

How to Fix PS5 DualSense Analog Drift

How to Fix PS5 DualSense Analog Drift

1. Check for Updates

2. Check Bluetooth Connectivity

3. Power Cycle Your Console

4. Reset DualSense Controller

5. Clean Analog Sticks and Remove Thumb Grips

6. Check Nothing Blocking Controller and PS5

7. Go for Repair under Warranty

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