DS4Windows Download – Best Tool to Use PS4/PS5 Controller on Windows 11/10/7 PC

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DS4Windows by jays2kings & ryochan7 is an open-source gamepad input mapper and virtual emulator designed to use and connect your PlayStation controller (DualShock 3/4 and DualSense 5) to a Windows 10 & 11 PC.

DS4 Windows acts as a bridge between your DS4 controller and your Windows PC, providing enhanced customization options, compatibility improvements, and the ability to use the controller with a wide range of games and applications. By emulating an Xbox 360 controller, DS4Windows ensures seamless integration with various games that support this standard.

The Sony PlayStation controller called DualShock 4, lacks native support on Windows systems. You can connect it via USB or Bluetooth and if you do that it will stuck. The DS4 Windows download is an excellent solution that perfectly emulates an Xbox controller, cleverly deceiving your computer into treating the DS4 as if it were an Xbox gamepad through virtual emulation.

DS4Windows 10/11 goes beyond mere emulation DS4 controller and connection of your controller to Windows. You can not only remap, and rebind your keys, and buttons but you can also use an extensive range of customization options. These include the flexibility to map controls to various inputs like keyboard keys, mouse commands, joysticks, the lightbar, rumble/vibration effects, and even the motion sensors (gyro) – granting you unparalleled control over your gaming experience.

Is DS4Windows Safe to Use?

DS4Windows 10/11 has gained popularity among gamers due to its safety and reliability. It’s important to download DS4Windows from trusted sources, such as the official GitHub repository, to ensure that you’re getting a genuine and secure version of the software. The developers behind DS4Windows have been proactive in addressing user concerns and providing regular updates to enhance its performance and security.

How To Download & Install DS4Windows on PC?

To begin your journey with DS4Windows, follow these steps to download the software:

1. Open your preferred web browser.
2. Navigate to the DS4Windows download page.
3. Save the ZIP file to a location on your computer.

Once you’ve downloaded the DS4Windows ZIP file, it’s time to install the software:

1. Extract the contents of the downloaded ZIP file to a folder of your choice.
2. Open the extracted folder and locate the “DS4Windows.exe” file.
3. Double-click on “DS4Windows.exe” to launch the installer.

Note: When running DS4Windows for the first time it may prompt you to install some drivers, with the first one being essential. Install them accordingly to your needs then hit the Finished button after.

Download DS4Windows Driver Before Using It

For DS4/DS5 to properly function on your Windows 10/11 PC you are required to install necessary first and third-party drivers. Some of which, of course, are optional but will improve DS4 Windows capabilities.

Here we have listed every driver needed to allow your DualShock 4 and DualSense 5 to work. Launching the DS4 app will also ask to install the drivers.

1. Virtual Gamepad Emulation Bus – ViGEmBus (Required)

The pivotal ViGEmBus driver for DS4Windows generates virtual controllers, enabling emulation of both Xbox and DS4 controllers.

2. HidHide (Optional)

The HidHide driver empowers users to selectively reveal gamepads to specific programs, mitigating the troublesome double input problem by concealing them from the system.

3. FakerInput (Optional)

FakerInput, employed by DS4Windows, creates a system-wide virtual keyboard and mouse, overcoming issues with certain games, elevated processes, UAC prompts, and anti-cheat systems, as in Valorant.

4. Windows Libraries & Frameworks (Required)

• Microsoft .NET 6.0.6 Runtime Desktop (Some users have reported that just installing the .NET runtime doesn’t work. If that is the case you should install .net SDK)
• Visual C++ 2015-2019 Redistributable. x64 or x86
• Operating System: Windows 10 or newer

How To Set Up DS4Windows Controller?

After the installation process is complete, it’s time to set up DS4Windows to ensure optimal performance. In most cases, DS4Windows immediately recognizes any controllers connected to the PC.

1. Connect your DS4 controller to your PC using a USB cable or via Bluetooth if your PC supports it.
2. Launch DS4Windows by double-clicking on the desktop shortcut or by searching for it in your Start menu.
3. In DS4Windows, you’ll be prompted to create profiles for your controller. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete this process.
4. Once the profile is created, you can customize various settings, such as button mapping, sensitivity adjustments, and even touchpad behavior.
5. To use the DS4 controller wirelessly, click on the Bluetooth icon in DS4Windows and follow the pairing instructions.

How To Connect DS4Windows Via Bluetooth?

Connecting DS4 Win using Bluetooth requires minimum specs of adapters for your controller.

The DS4 controller needs to be set into pairing mode to be added as a Bluetooth device through Windows’ settings. If a pin is asked try 0000

If a controller has already been previously paired and you can’t reconnect, try removing the device from Windows’ Bluetooth devices list and repairing them.

• How To Pair DS4Windows with DualShock / DualSense?

Hold at the same time the PS + Share buttons until the lightbar starts flashing in a heartbeat pattern.

• To Pair Joy Con / Switch Pro with DS4 Windows

Hold down the sync button until the controller LEDs enter a back n’ forth pattern.

6. Troubleshooting Common Issues

While DS4Windows is generally reliable, you may encounter some common issues. Here are a few troubleshooting steps:

1. Controller Not Detected: Ensure that your controller is properly connected or paired. You might need to reinstall drivers.
2. Bluetooth Connectivity: If using Bluetooth, make sure your PC’s Bluetooth is enabled and the controller is in pairing mode.
3. Exclusive Mode: DS4Windows has an “Exclusive Mode” option that can improve compatibility with some games. Experiment with enabling or disabling this option if you encounter issues.
4. Game Compatibility: Some games might require additional configuration. Consult the DS4Windows community or game-specific forums for assistance.

DS4Windows Alternative and Similar Software

Although, DS4Windows is the best free gamepad emulator to download in 2023 and use it. In case, you need a similar software for whatever reason that should be the best alternative to DS4windows. Then you can download these tools:

• InputMapper takes the original goals of DSDCS’s DS4Windows and earlier versions of InputMapper and expands on them.
• Xpadder is one of the best game emulators providing the freedom to use its gamepad.
• DualSense X Controller uses 20 different Adaptive Trigger modes, enables Haptic Feedback(USB), Emulate Xbox 360 or DualShock 4 through USB or Bluetooth on PC.
• reWASD is tailor-made to remap Xbox One controllers

How do DS4Windows Work?

DS4Windows operates through a process of remapping the user’s physical gamepad, transforming it into a newly created virtual or “fake” emulated gamepad. Alternatively, it can directly map the actual gamepad’s inputs to the user’s keyboard and mouse. This functionality offers several advantages, including:

• Enhanced Game Compatibility: DS4Windows makes it possible to employ your gamepad in games designed to support only specific controllers, such as Xbox controllers. This becomes particularly useful for gaming titles that lack native compatibility with DS4 controllers but work seamlessly with Xbox counterparts.
• Flexibility in Controller Emulation: The software provides the choice to emulate either an Xbox or a DS4 gamepad. It’s important to note that the majority of games do not inherently support DS4 controllers, necessitating the use of Xbox emulation for optimal performance.
• Customizable Virtual Controller: DS4Windows grants comprehensive configurability over the virtual controller. Users can reassign buttons and sticks to other inputs or even deactivate them entirely. This customization extends to altering their behavior, configuring special functions, and fine-tuning other aspects.
• Bluetooth Connectivity for Wireless Gameplay: DS4Windows facilitates the utilization of your DS4 controller via Bluetooth in games that exclusively recognize DS4 controllers connected via USB (known as Wired v1 DS4 emulation). This feature liberates users from the constraint of wired connections for an enhanced gaming experience.
• Expanding Gamepad Utility: Beyond traditional gamepad-supported games, DS4Windows expands utility by allowing the use of the DS4 controller to control the PC’s keyboard and mouse. This feature empowers gamers to play titles that lack gamepad support by utilizing the controller’s inputs for keyboard and mouse functions.
• Motion Sensor Integration: DS4Windows enables the mapping of the controller’s motion sensors to control various aspects, such as the mouse or sticks. This integration adds an innovative dimension to gameplay, enhancing immersion and control.
• Versatile Functionality: The software offers a plethora of additional possibilities, opening avenues for diverse applications. These possibilities span from motion sensor-controlled functions to various forms of controller customization and specialized configurations.

What are the DS4Windows Requirements?

1. Windows 10 or newer
2. .NET Runtime x64
3. Visual C++ 2015-2019 Redistributable. x64 or x86
4. ViGEmBus v.1.17.333.0 driver or later (DS4Windows will install it for you)
5. Sony DualShock 4 or other supported controller
6. Connection method:
7. Micro USB cable
8. Bluetooth 4.0 (via an adapter or built-in pc).
9. Disable PlayStation Configuration Support and Xbox Configuration Support options in Steam

Bottom Line

The DS4Windows download opens up a world of possibilities for DS4 controller enthusiasts, allowing them to leverage its full potential on Windows systems. With the ability to customize settings, enhance compatibility, and elevate your gaming experience, DS4Windows remains a valuable tool in every gamer’s arsenal. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily download, install, and configure DS4Windows to enjoy seamless gameplay and unparalleled control. Whether you’re diving into epic adventures or engaging in competitive battles, DS4Windows empowers you to play the way you want.