How to fix PS5 stick drift?

If you’re wondering how to fix PS5 stick drift, we’ve got you covered right here.

Controller drift, or stick drift, is the independent movement of the analog stick without gamer input. This means that the gameplay or character are acting when you don’t want them to. This can be very disruptive to gameplay, particularly at crucial moments.

If you’re unable to fix stick drift on your PS5 controller, your alternative option is to check out the best PS5 controllers to replace it. However, the regular might be DualSense enough.

Fortunately, there are several possible fixes for controller drift.

How to fix stick drift on PS5 DualSense controller

There can be many reasons why your controller could be starting to drift. These range from easy fixes, to more technical deep dives into the software. Don’t worry though, we’ve got all bases covered in easy to read step-by-step guides.

1. Make sure your DualSense controller is free from dirt

The first potential cause is dust or debris lodged within the console. Luckily, this is an easy fix.

First, try blowing gently into the controller while moving the thumbstick in circles. If this does not produce positive results, rubbing alcohol gently dabbed using a cotton swab around the thumbstick is a good quick fix.

Note: be very sparing with the rubbing alcohol and do not use water as it may damage the electronics. 

2. ‘Refresh’ the analog stick

If cleaning the console has not fixed the issue, then the problem may be overuse of the thumbstick in a particular position. Much like a sticky key on a piano, consoles are prone to wearing out.

To fix this, lift up the analog stick, centre the mechanism inside and then reseat the analog stick by rotating it several times.

3. Ensure that your controller is fully updated

Like any other technology, the DualSense Controller is constantly updated by Sony. It should update automatically, however if your controller is behind on its updates it is easy to fix.

First, connect the controller to the console. Then in your PS5 go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers > Dualsense Wireless Controller Device Software. Once there, ensure that your controller is up to date with the latest updates.

4. Attempt a full controller reset

Alternatively, you can try a full reset. (Yes, the off and on again trick).

To reset your controller, make sure it is fully switched off and the USB cable is removed. Then turn it over and find the small hole located next to the Sony brand logo. Using a paperclip, press and hold for 10 seconds. Then turn your PS5 back on.

5. Try a software ‘hack’ by increasing the ‘Deadzone’

Finally, if cleaning the controller, making sure it is fully updated, and attempting a reset does not fix the issue, then adjusting the ‘Deadzone’ or Input Threshold should mitigate any effects caused by this issue. However, this will not fix the underlying problem, only remove its affects from day-to-day game experience.

The ‘Deadzone’ is the area around the thumbstick which is programmed to ignore player input. Lower Deadzone settings will result in even the subtlest movement registering within gameplay and as such result in a much more reactive, faster game experiece. Higher Deadzone settings will require more forceful controller action before the command is registered in-game.

But why does increasing the Deadzone settings fix stick drift?

By increasing the Deadzone settings, you can make the game ignore the drift commands from your controller – however, this also has the added consequence of removing the reaction speed and motion sensitivity of your controller to console.

Here’s how you do it…

How to change ‘Deadzone’ settings on PS5 DualSense

Unfortunately, PS5 do not have a general Deadzone setting feature and you have to adjust your settings in individual games, some of which also do not have the option to adjust. Below are three of the most popular PS5 games and how to access their Deadzone settings.

• Elden Ring
  • Sensitivity Tab > Advanced Settings > Edit Deadzone > Zone type
  • Adjust the settings of the circle around the centre of the X-Y axis to exclude the area affected by drift.
• Fortnite
  • Menu > Controller > Deadzone
• God of War Ragnarok has no in-game Deadzone settings

In addition, any game supported by Steam will allow you change the Deadzone settings from the Steam settings:

• Go to Steam > Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings > Dualsense Edge Controller > Calibrate

• A pop up will then appear. Adjust your deadzone settings per stick as per your preferences.

Ultimately, there are several DIY fixes to controller drift, however if the problem persists or worsens over time, it could be worth considering replacing the controller and investing in the new Dualsense Edge Controller.

If your controller is still under warranty, Sony offers a service on their website to replace broken controllers at no extra cost. Please be aware that it you have attempted to take apart your controller in an attempt to fix it, Sony considers your warranty void. As such, amateur repairs are not generally considered your best option.

If your controller is outside of its warranty, and none of the above fixes have helped, replacing the console may be the next step.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does dust cause stick drift?

Dust is considered to be one of the main causes of stick drift. To combat this, keep your controller away from dusty places, make sure it is kept clean and give it a wipe down every now and then to prevent build up. It should be noted, however, that dust is not the only potential cause of stick drift and other solutions are available if cleaning your controller has not resolved the issue.

Is stick drift inevitable?

Most major controller manufacturers have produced products known to suffer from stick drift. Unfortunately, the issue appears to be inherent in the design of analog stick controllers. Fortunately there are several steps you can take to significantly prolong your controllers lifespan. The most common fixes are listed above.