Build a wireless dongle for a DualSense controller – it’s this easy
24/7/2026
Translation: Elicia Payne
The subtle haptic feedback and adaptive triggers on Sony’s DualSense controller only work on PCs when connected via a cable. But it’ll even work wirelessly with a small Raspberry Pi Pico 2W.
The current generation of consoles isn’t exactly known for its innovation. The most exciting thing is still Sony’s DualSense controller. Thanks to its sophisticated technology, it vibrates in a variety of ways like no other. It even comes with adaptive triggers that can simulate the action of drawing a bow or pulling a pistol trigger. No other console manufacturer offers sounds from the controller’s speaker either.
More and more games support these functions, especially Sony’s own games. Many of these have now made their way to PC, which is why Sony has released the drivers so that the DualSense works fully on a PC – or at least almost fully. Until now, you had to connect the controller via a cable to get haptic feedback and adaptive triggers. With Bluetooth, the special features were left out, and the controller was limited to standard vibration – like you get on any other controller. It’s clear Sony wants to make certain advantages exclusive for the PS5.
You can always count on the modding community
A savvy modder has now managed to get the DualSense to work completely wirelessly on a PC as well. For once, there are no complicated steps involved, and it hardly costs anything. All you need is a Raspberry Pi Pico 2W or board similar. This creates a Bluetooth bridge that tricks the system into thinking the controller is connected via a cable. One of these little electronic gadgets cost me just eight francs.
I connected the Pico 2W to my PC via Micro-USB while holding down the button on the board. Immediately, the device appeared in Windows Explorer. Then, I downloaded the latest firmware from the DS5Dongle project and copied it to the board. Next, I connected the DualSense to the console by holding down the Share and PlayStation buttons on the controller at the same time. As soon as it flashes white, it’s in pairing mode and will automatically pair with the Pico Board. It worked first time for me.
If you want to connect additional DualSense controllers, all you have to do is briefly press the button on the Pico 2W. Then the connection to the current DualSense is disconnected – without, however, unpairing it – and you can pair a second device.
You can also go to the web menu for additional settings. There, you can adjust the controller’s vibration intensity, turn off the speaker, or increase the sampling rate.
DualSense unleashed
I couldn’t wait to try out my DualSense Edge without its cable. In Assassin’s Creed Black Flag Resynced, as soon as I set sail, it was immediately clear that it all works. Then I heard the sound of my sails billowing through the speaker. In Sony’s own Horizon Forbidden West, I can feel the adaptive triggers tighten when I pull the bow. Finally, I no longer need a USB cable to experience this. It’s perfect for when I want to play from the sofa.
Yes, it’s a shame that such workarounds are necessary. Sony could simply release the full set of drivers. Still, it’s nice to see how the Community knows how to help itself. There’s also recently been a software solution on the DSX for the same problem. But I was a little overwhelmed by the settings and gave up after a short while. I’m really grateful for the straightforward approach of a dongle. You can also use it for other devices.
So if you’ve always been annoyed that you have to connect your DualSense to your PC with a cable, the DS5Dongle project is the solution.
Philipp Rüegg
Senior Editor
Philipp.Rueegg@digitecgalaxus.chAs a child, I wasn't allowed to have any consoles. It was only with the arrival of the family's 486 PC that the magical world of gaming opened up to me. Today, I'm overcompensating accordingly. Only a lack of time and money prevents me from trying out every game there is and decorating my shelf with rare retro consoles.
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