Top Common DS4Windows (DS4-Win) Errors and How to Fix Them

Have you ever plugged in your PS4 controller with DS4Windows (DS4-Win) and suddenly nothing worked? I know the feeling. I once spent hours trying to figure out why my controller kept disconnecting in the middle of a game. That’s why I decided to create this complete guide to help you fix the most common DS4Windows errors step by step.

Top Common DS4Windows (DS4-Win) Errors and How to Fix Them. (Quick Answer)

1. Update DS4Windows and drivers.
2. Use a data USB cable.
3. Enable pairing mode for Bluetooth.
4. Disable power-saving options.
5. Run DS4Windows as Administrator.
6. Reinstall ViGEmBus driver.
7. Close conflicting apps like Steam Input.

What is DS4Windows (DS4-Win) and Why Do Errors Happen?

DS4Windows (DS4-Win) is a popular tool that makes your DualShock 4 controller work on Windows 10 and 11. It does this by emulating an Xbox 360 controller driver (XInput), which most PC games support natively.

While DS4Windows works well, users often face problems like controller not connecting, drivers failing, Bluetooth drops, or random disconnections. These issues happen due to outdated drivers, missing dependencies, or conflicts with Windows updates.

By understanding the root cause, you can fix errors faster and enjoy smoother gameplay.

Top Common DS4Windows Errors and Their Fixes

Below, I’ve explained the most frequent DS4Windows errors along with detailed solutions. Each fix is written in a simple, step-by-step way.

1. DS4Windows Not Detecting Controller

This is one of the most common problems. You connect your DualShock 4 controller, but DS4Windows doesn’t show it.

Causes:

• Faulty USB cable.
• Missing drivers.
• Outdated DS4Windows version.

Fix:

1. Make sure you use a data USB cable, not a charging-only cable.
2. Update DS4Windows to the latest version from GitHub.
3. Reinstall the ViGEmBus driver from the DS4Windows settings.
4. Try another USB port on your PC.

2. Bluetooth Not Connecting

Many players prefer wireless mode, but sometimes Bluetooth pairing fails.

Causes:

• Outdated Bluetooth adapter.
• Incorrect pairing method.
• Conflicting paired devices.

Fix:

1. Press and hold PS button + Share button on your controller until the light flashes.
2. On Windows, go to Bluetooth settings > Add device > Wireless Controller.
3. If pairing fails, remove the device and try again.
4. Update your Bluetooth drivers.
5. Use a Bluetooth 4.0 or higher adapter.

3. DS4Windows Keeps Disconnecting

Your controller works for a while but then randomly disconnects.

Causes:

• Power-saving settings.
• Weak Bluetooth signal.
• Background apps interfering.

Fix:

1. Go to Device Manager > Bluetooth adapter > Properties > Power Management. Uncheck “Allow computer to turn off this device to save power.”
2. Keep your controller within 10 feet of your PC.
3. Disable other Bluetooth devices if possible.
4. For USB, switch to another port.

4. DS4Windows Not Opening

Sometimes the app itself won’t start.

Causes:

• Missing .NET Runtime.
• Corrupted DS4Windows installation.
• Admin rights issue.

Fix:

1. Install .NET 6 Runtime from Microsoft’s official site.
2. Re-download DS4Windows and reinstall.
3. Run DS4Windows as Administrator.
4. If the issue continues, check Windows Security settings.

5. Controller Input Lag

Your controller works but feels delayed in games.

Causes:

• Using Bluetooth instead of USB.
• High system load.
• Incorrect settings in DS4Windows.

Fix:

1. For the lowest lag, connect via USB cable.
2. Close background apps like Chrome, Discord, or screen recorders.
3. Adjust DS4Windows polling rate in settings.
4. Update to the latest ViGEmBus driver.

6. Controller Vibrations Not Working

Some users report no vibration or rumble feedback.

Causes:

• Disabled rumble in DS4Windows profile.
• Game settings override.

Fix:

1. Open DS4Windows > Profiles > Edit. Make sure vibration support is enabled.
2. Check in-game controller settings.
3. Update DS4Windows and drivers.

7. Touchpad Not Responding

The DS4 touchpad doesn’t always register.

Causes:

• Touchpad disabled in settings.
• Driver issue.

Fix:

1. Go to DS4Windows profile settings and enable touchpad support.
2. Reinstall the HidHide driver.
3. Test touchpad in another game to confirm.

8. DS4Windows “No Controllers Connected (Max 4)” Error

This error shows even when your controller is connected.

Causes:

• Exclusive mode not working.
• Conflicting background drivers.

Fix:

1. Enable Hide DS4 Controller in DS4Windows settings.
2. Close Steam Input or any other gamepad software.
3. Restart your PC and reconnect.

9. DS4Windows Crashes After Windows Update

Sometimes a Windows update breaks DS4Windows.

Fix:

1. Update DS4Windows to the newest version.
2. Reinstall ViGEmBus and HidHide drivers.
3. If the issue started after a major update, roll back Windows temporarily.

10. Controller Battery Not Showing

Battery percentage may not appear in DS4Windows.

Fix:

1. Ensure you are running the latest DS4Windows release.
2. Reconnect your controller.
3. Restart the DS4Windows app.

Best Practices to Prevent Errors

• Always download DS4Windows from the official GitHub page.
• Keep your drivers updated.
• Use USB connection for competitive games.
• Save multiple profiles for different games.
• Avoid third-party driver tools.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is DS4Windows safe to use?

Yes, DS4Windows is safe if downloaded from the official GitHub repository. It is open-source and trusted by millions of users worldwide.

Q2: Why does my DS4 controller not work on Steam even with DS4Windows?

Steam has its own controller support. Disable Steam Input or use DS4Windows in exclusive mode to prevent conflicts.

Q3: Can DS4Windows support DualSense (PS5) controllers?

Yes, it supports DualSense but some advanced features like adaptive triggers may not work fully.

Q4: How do I fix DS4Windows not detecting multiple controllers?

Enable “Hide DS4 Controller,” and ensure you are using the latest DS4Windows build. Pair each controller one by one.

Q5: Does DS4Windows work with emulators like PCSX2 or RPCS3?

Yes. DS4Windows works with most emulators since it emulates an Xbox controller (XInput).

Q6: Why does DS4Windows keep asking for ViGEmBus driver?

If ViGEmBus fails to install, reinstall it from DS4Windows settings or download from the official ViGEmBus GitHub page.

Q7: Can I use DS4Windows on Windows 7 or 8?

It’s not fully supported. DS4Windows works best on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Final Thoughts

DS4Windows (DS4-Win) is an excellent tool that brings full controller support to Windows. However, like any software, it may run into errors. The good news is that most problems are easy to fix if you know the right steps.

Whether it’s a USB issue, Bluetooth disconnect, or driver problem, this guide covers all the common fixes. With proper setup, you can enjoy smooth, lag-free gaming on your PC.