Can I use my PS5 controller as a mouse?

Yes, you can use your PS5 controller (DualSense) as a mouse on your PC or Mac, but it requires additional software to map the controller's inputs to mouse functions. Here's how to set it up for both Windows and Mac systems:

How to Use Your PS5 Controller as a Mouse

For Windows Users:

1. Install Software for Controller Mapping

   • You need software that allows you to map your PS5 controller to mouse movements. Popular programs include:
     • JoyToKey – Allows you to map controller buttons to keyboard or mouse actions.
     • Xpadder – Another tool for mapping controller inputs to keyboard/mouse actions.
     • InputMapper – Mainly used for PlayStation controllers, but it can also map the DualSense controller to mouse functions.

2. Connect Your PS5 Controller to Windows

   • Bluetooth: Press and hold the Create and PS button on the controller until the light bar starts flashing. Go to Bluetooth settings on your PC, find the PS5 controller, and select it to pair.
   • USB Cable: Simply plug the controller into your PC using a USB-C cable.

3. Configure the Controller in the Software

   • Open the software (e.g., JoyToKey) and select your PS5 controller.
   • In JoyToKey:
     • Set the analog stick to control the mouse cursor.
     • Map buttons to left-click, right-click, and other mouse functionalities.
     • You can adjust sensitivity to make the movement feel more natural.

4. Test the Setup

   • After mapping the inputs, move the analog stick to see if it controls the mouse pointer. Test the buttons to make sure they perform actions like left-click and right-click.

For Mac Users:

1. Install Software for Controller Mapping

   • On Mac, you'll need software like Joystick Mapper or ControllerMate to map the PS5 controller's inputs to mouse actions.
   • Joystick Mapper is the most popular choice, as it’s easy to use and set up.

2. Connect Your PS5 Controller to Mac

   • Bluetooth: Hold the Create and PS button on the PS5 controller to make it discoverable. Go to Bluetooth settings on your Mac and pair the controller.
   • USB Cable: You can also connect the PS5 controller via USB-C cable to your Mac.

3. Configure the Controller

   • Open the controller mapping software (e.g., Joystick Mapper).
   • Assign the analog stick to control mouse movement and map the buttons for clicking.
   • In Joystick Mapper, you can adjust sensitivity and make the controller function just like a mouse.

4. Test Your Setup

   • After configuring, move the analog stick to see if it controls the mouse pointer.
   • Test the controller’s buttons to ensure they are mapped correctly to left-click and right-click functions.

Limitations and Considerations

• Accuracy: The precision of using a controller as a mouse might not be as good as using a traditional mouse. The analog stick on the controller may feel imprecise compared to a mouse for tasks that require fine movement.
• Ergonomics: A PS5 controller is generally bulkier and less ergonomic for extended use as a mouse.
• Comfort: If you are using it for extended periods of time, it might feel uncomfortable, especially if you're used to a traditional mouse.
• Limited Functionality: Some games or software may not work well when using the controller as a mouse, depending on how well the mapping software handles the inputs.

Alternative: Using the PS5 Controller for Gaming

If you primarily want to use the controller for gaming rather than as a mouse, many gaming platforms like Steam natively support the PS5 controller, so you don’t need to map buttons manually for gaming. Just follow these steps:

1. Open Steam and go to Settings.
2. Under Controller, select General Controller Settings.
3. Enable PlayStation Configuration Support.
4. Connect your PS5 controller via USB or Bluetooth, and Steam will automatically detect and configure it.

This feature is automatic for most games, providing a seamless experience without needing additional software.

Conclusion:

While it’s certainly possible to use a PS5 controller as a mouse on your PC or Mac, it requires some extra software for button and analog stick mapping. The setup process may take a little time, and while the experience can work for simple tasks or gaming, it may not be as precise or ergonomic as using a traditional mouse. For gaming, however, the PS5 controller will work seamlessly with platforms like Steam without the need for extra configuration.

Helpful Links:

• JoyToKey
• Xpadder
• Joystick Mapper for Mac
• ControllerMate for Mac