How to Fix Stick Drift on PS5 Controller

You might eventually find that the analog sticks on your PS5 controller start to move on their own, even when you’re not touching them – a frustrating problem with no easy solution.

Stick drift happens when your controller registers movement even when you’re not touching the joystick. It typically develops gradually due to normal wear and tear, and it’s a frustrating problem.

In this article, we’ll go over various potential ways to get rid of this issue.

Testing Stick Drift

Before looking at possible solutions, we suggest connecting your PS5 controller to a PC and using the Gamepad Tester website to check it.

This website helps you quickly check if your controller has stick drift. Simply connect it to your computer and open the site!

The example shows a common controller issue: stick drift. Specifically, the left stick is moving on its own, pushing downwards and to the left even when it should be centered.

This step isn’t required, but it can help you understand what’s happening with your controller. With that said, let’s move on to the solutions.

Potential PS5 Controller Stick Drift Fixes

Rotate the Sticks

A quick and easy fix is to place your thumbs over the sticks on both controllers and gently rotate them in a full circle, either clockwise or counterclockwise.

Turn around at least three times in one direction, then pause and turn the same number of times in the opposite direction. Just take it easy and don’t rush.

Next, continue rotating the sticks while pressing down on both L3 and R3 buttons. Complete three full rotations in each direction while keeping them pressed, and you’ll be finished!

This can help remove any dust or dirt that’s gotten stuck under the buttons. It’s also a simple fix that might reduce or eliminate minor joystick drift, making it a good first thing to try.

Keep in mind that this is usually a short-term solution. You may need to do this again in the future, but it’s generally not a major problem.

Blow the Stick

If that doesn’t work, you can try blowing into the device. Gently lift the stick and then blow air into it, trying different areas. It’s a quick and easy solution!

Similar to the last technique, this one is most effective when drifting happens because of loose material. It’s also fast and easy to test, so it’s worth a shot.

Reset the Controller

To fix this, you’ll need something small and pointed, like a toothpick or a small screwdriver. Just be careful not to use anything too sharp.

Okay, so what I need to do is find and press that tiny button hidden on the back of my DualSense controller, the one the picture is showing. It’s super small, but that’s the goal!

So, if I want to turn off my controller, I just need to hold down the power button for a few seconds while it’s on. The trick is to not touch any of the other buttons or sticks while I’m doing it, just to be safe.

This will restore the controller to its original factory settings. You’ll need to pair it with your PS5 again afterward, but that’s the only real drawback.

This fix usually works when stick drift is caused by a software glitch. Simply turning your controller off and back on can often recalibrate it and resolve the issue.

Use a Recalibration Tool

Just a warning: this process carries some risk, so proceed with caution. It involves changing the controller’s software, and if not done correctly, could render it unusable. Please read the instructions on the website very carefully before you begin, and remember you are responsible for any outcome.

Now that’s covered, you’ll need to connect your DualSense controller to your computer and go to the DualShock Calibration GUI website. Don’t let the name fool you – it actually works with DualSense controllers as well!

Next, select “Calibrate Stick Center” and carefully follow the on-screen instructions. This will help reset your controller’s sticks and could fix stick drift caused by software issues.

Just a reminder: using this method is at your own risk. We and the tool creators aren’t liable for any problems it might cause with your controller. Please proceed with caution, as this is an advanced technique.

Closing Words

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and are still experiencing stick drift, your DualSense controller likely has a more serious hardware issue. This could be caused by worn-out analog sticks or other internal components.

If you’re having trouble, we suggest contacting PlayStation support. They may be able to repair or replace your controller, especially if it’s still under warranty.

You could also try replacing the controller’s sticks yourself. However, this is a very difficult repair and isn’t covered in this guide.

You’ll need to be comfortable working with electronics, including soldering and desoldering. You’ll also have to purchase replacement parts online. Keep in mind that doing this may cancel any remaining warranty. However, it could be a solution if you’ve exhausted all other options!

Hopefully, this guide helped you resolve the stick drift issue with your PS5 DualSense controller. Also, are you curious about connecting AirPods to your PS5? We have the answer!

2025-12-16 08:07