PlayStation DualSense · stick drift

How to fix PS5 DualSense stick drift

Stick drift is when a thumbstick reports movement while you aren't touching it, so your character walks, the camera pans, or menus scroll by themselves. It usually comes from wear inside the stick, where the sensor that reads its position no longer reads true center.

1. Measure it first

Run the free drift test with your PS5 DualSense controller connected. It gives each stick a number, so you can tell whether recalibrating actually helped.

2. Recalibrate or reset (PS5 DualSense)

  1. Turn off the PS5 and unplug the controller.
  2. Hold the reset button in the small hole on the back for at least 5 seconds with a pin, then reconnect with a USB cable and press the PS button.
  3. Test again with the drift test. If it still drifts, request a repair under "Button or analog stick issue" on Sony's repair page, or replace the stick or controller.

Steps from: PlayStation: DualSense troubleshooting

3. If it still drifts

When recalibrating doesn't help, the stick module itself is worn. The fix is a repair under warranty, a replacement stick module, or a new controller. If the controller is under warranty, contact the maker before buying parts.

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