Valve’s storefront is the biggest gaming platform in the world. Part of its success is its suite of features to make gaming easier. Sometimes it fails, though, likeSteam not detecting the controller.
You should be free to play how you want to play. You coulduse a keyboardand mouse on a PS5 or use a DualSense on your PC via Steam.
The software should recognize Sony and Microsoft controllers without issue. Then, it should install the drivers it needs, but you may need to check a not-easy-to-find menu.
That may be part of the problem, but other causes relate to missing drivers or updates.
Steam Not Detecting Controller Causes
Understanding the causes may help you identify the exact solution you need. These are the common problems you could be facing:
These are easy-to-fix issues as you’re probably not facing anything problematic.
How to Fix Steam Not Detecting Controllers?
While playing on Steam on your PC, you may use an Xbox controller, the DualShock 1-to-4, or the DualSense 5. Several generic controllers can work with PCs, including the Nintendo Switch Pro controller and the official Steam controller.
Our solutions can work for any peripheral or brand you’re using. Additionally, we’re offering troubleshooting specific for Xbox and PlayStation controllers.
You canfollow the guide on Windows 10 and 11, although my example pictures will belong to Windows 10. macOS users can still follow through by doing the parallel steps.
Test Your Controller Elsewhere
Before trying different solutions, you should ensure the controller is functioning.
First, if you’re using the controller wirelessly, charge it until it’s full. Plug it into your power surge with its USB cable, and leave it for a couple of hours.
Then, you may test it on another console or PC, if possible. If devices should recognize it immediately, then the problem is not coming from the controller.
