How to Connect a PS3 Controller to a PC

This article explains how to connect and use a PS3's DualShock 3 controller with a PC, with or without a Bluetooth dongle, so that you can play games on Steam without a mouse and keyboard. We cover computers with Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7, or macOS.

How to Connect a PS3 Controller to a PC

In addition to your DualShock 3 controller and PC, you'll need a mini-USB cable and the following files:

• ScpToolkit
• Microsoft .NET Framework 4.5 
• Microsoft Visual C++ 2010 Redistributable Package 
• Microsoft Visual C++ 2013 Redistributable Package
• Microsoft DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer

When you've assembled everything you need, here's what to do:

1. If your DualShock 3 controller is paired with a PS3, first unplug the PS3 from its power source, or else it can cause syncing conflicts.

2. Plug the DualShock 3 into your PC via a mini-USB cable.

   If your computer doesn't have built-in Bluetooth support, plug in your wireless Bluetooth dongle.

3. Download and run ScpToolkit Setup.exe. It should automatically download all of the other files it needs, so just follow all the prompts.

   

4. After the ScpToolkit finishes setting up, select the big green button above Run Driver Installer on the window that pops up.

   

5. On the next screen, make sure the boxes next to Install DualShock 3 driver and Install Bluetooth driver are checked (if you have a Bluetooth dongle plugged in).

   

6. Uncheck Install DualShock 4 driver (and uncheck Install Bluetooth driver if you don't have a Bluetooth dongle).

7. Select the arrow beside Choose DualShock 3 controllers to install and choose your PlayStation 3 controller from the drop-down menu.

   

8. If connecting a Bluetooth dongle, select the arrow beside Choose Bluetooth dongles to install and choose your Bluetooth device from the drop-down menu.

9. Select Install. When finished, select Exit.

10. The ScpToolkit Settings Manager will then appear in your system tray. Select it to add another device.

How to Use Your PS3 Controller With Your Computer

Once installed properly, the DualShock 3 should automatically work with the Steam client and any PC game that supports gamepads. You may be able to adjust the control settings for individual games, but your computer will recognize the PS3 controller as an Xbox controller, so keep that in mind when adjusting the button mapping. When you're done playing, turn off the DualShock by holding down the PS button on the center of the controller.

How to Use a Wireless PS3 Controller With a PC via Bluetooth

To use your PS3 controller wirelessly, you'll either need a PC with built-in Bluetooth compatibility or a Bluetooth dongle plugged in. You must plug in the controller before you can play wirelessly. After unplugging the controller, it should automatically sync with your PC via Bluetooth if the proper drivers are installed.

How to Connect a PS3 Controller to a Mac

Using a DualShock 3 controller with a Mac is much simpler than connecting it to a PC because the necessary drivers are already present in OS X Snow Leopard and later. But setting up wireless connectivity requires some extra steps.

1. If your DualShock 3 controller is paired with a PS3, first unplug the PS3 from its power source, or else it can cause syncing conflicts.

2. Reset your PS3 controller by inserting a paperclip into the tiny hole under the L2 button on the back of the DualShock 3.

   

3. From the Apple menu on your Mac, select System Preferences > Bluetooth and turn Bluetooth on.

   

4. Connect the controller to your Mac with a USB cable.

5. Hold down the PS button on your controller for 1-3 seconds until you see the red lights on top of the DualShock 3 flashing.

6. Unplug the controller from your Mac.

7. Click the + icon in the System Preferences menu, then select Bluetooth Setup Assistant.

8. When prompted for an access code, enter 0000 and select Accept.

9. Close the assistant and select PLAYSTATION3 Controller in the Bluetooth list in your System Preferences.

10. Select the gear icon and choose Add To Favorites and Update Services.

11. Turn off your Mac's Bluetooth and wait a second.

12. Enable Bluetooth again and wait another second. Your DualShock 3 should now work with games that supports controllers.