Connect a game controller to your Mac with Bluetooth

Why it happens

A game controller pairs with your Mac like any other Bluetooth device, but only while it's in pairing mode. If you just switch it on, it tries to reconnect to the console it last used, so your Mac never sees it. A special button combination puts it in pairing mode for a short time.

How to fix it

1. Put the controller in pairing mode. On a PS5 DualSense, hold the PS button and the Create button until the light flashes. On a PS4 controller, hold PS and Share. On an Xbox controller with Bluetooth, turn it on, then hold the small pair button on top until the Xbox button flashes quickly. On a Switch Pro Controller, hold the sync button on top.

2. Open System Settings from the Apple menu and click Bluetooth. Make sure Bluetooth is on.

   Bluetooth

3. Wait for the controller to show under Nearby Devices. Hold the pointer over its name and click Connect.

4. When it moves up to My Devices and the light stops flashing, it's ready. Open your game and try the buttons.

Still not fixed?

1. Not in the list? Pairing mode only lasts a short while, so start it again and keep the controller close to your Mac. If a console is nearby and switched on, turn it off so it doesn't grab the controller first.

2. If it paired once but won't connect now, remove it and pair again. In Bluetooth, Control-click the controller and choose Forget, then put it back in pairing mode and click Connect.

   Bluetooth

3. If it's connected but a game ignores it, check that the game supports controllers. Game Controllers in System Settings shows the controller and lets you change what its buttons do.

   Game Controllers

4. Some older Xbox controllers have no Bluetooth at all, so they can't pair with a Mac. The box or the maker's website says whether yours has it.

5. If the controller won't pair with your Mac or any other device, even after charging it, the controller itself may be faulty. Contact its maker for a repair or replacement. If no Bluetooth devices work on your Mac, contact Apple Support.