DualSense battery runs out fast? Find out what to do to improve

The DualSense (PS5) is really an evolution of the Dualshock 4 (PS4). With a built-in microphone, configurable LEDs according to the game and, the big news, the haptic feedback that allows better vibration feedback and the physical sensation of trigger resistance, depending on the gameplay. Amazing! But all this can quickly drain the DualSense battery. Take a look at some tips to improve this situation.

1. Remove the DualSense from the USB port

Some people may have a habit of leaving the Dualsense connected to the PS5 via the USB cable. Even with the console turned off, this can cause the battery to slowly drain over time. If the controller is not charging, remove it from the USB. When charging, wait for a full charge and then disconnect the cable.

2. Reduce lights glare and vibration

Another way to try to save the DualSense battery is by reducing the brightness of the lights and the power of the controller vibration. You can even turn everything off, but I believe that this would “spoil the charm” of the accessory and limit the gameplay immersion it can provide.

To make these adjustments, go to Settings. Search for Accessories and then select Controls. In this option, you can make some changes to your control. In principle, set the vibration intensity and trigger effect intensity to the weakest mode. Set the brightness of the control indicators to medium.

Test it and if after a few hours of gameplay the DualSense continues to discharge too fast, disable the vibration and trigger effect intensities. Also, set the brightness indicator to dark mode. Repeat the gameplay test and see if you managed to gain a few more hours of gameplay.

3. Program the control to turn off when idle

Another way to save the controller’s battery is to reduce the time it stays on while idle. It might be something a little obvious, but it can help a lot. It is possible to program the DualSense to turn off after a certain period of time.

For this adjustment, go to Settings and then System. In the energy-saving option, just select in “Set the time until the controls are turned off” if you prefer that the DualSense is automatically turned off after 10, 30 or 60 minutes of idle time.

Despite the three options (and even an extra one to never turn off), for battery saving purposes, it is recommended to leave it to turn off after 10 minutes.

4. Reset DualSense

If in the medium and long term, you notice that none of the above alternatives has worked, it is still possible to reset the controller to factory settings. This is because the DualSense battery may be draining faster due to some software installed during updates.

To reset, turn the controller backwards and find a little hole just to the right of the Sony brand (see image below). You will need to insert a pin, clip or any object that will fit to press into this hole. Hold in place (without excessive force) for three to five seconds, then release. This way, your DualSense will be reset.

Now connect your controller to the USB cable and this to the PS5, turn on the console via the DualSense PS button and install any firmware that the video game system detects available.

5. None of this worked. And now?

If none of the above tips has worked and your DualSense continues to discharge very fast, it is likely that there is a problem with the controller itself. In this case, the recommendation (especially if the product is under warranty) is to contact Sony technical support to assess the situation and, if necessary, replace the DualSense.