The two ways to connect: USB cable or wireless

A PS3 controller connects to your console in two ways: plugged in with a USB cable, or wirelessly after a one-time pairing. The USB cable works when ready — plug it in and the controller is ready. Wireless takes a few extra steps the first time, but then the controller connects automatically whenever you turn on the PS3.

Which method you choose depends on what you have on hand and how you like to play. USB is simpler if you only have one controller or prefer a wired setup. Wireless is more convenient if you have multiple controllers or want to sit farther from the console.

Key Takeaways

  • A USB cable connection works when ready with no setup — just plug the controller into any USB port on the front or back of the PS3.
  • Wireless pairing requires pressing the PS button and the Bluetooth button at the same time, then waiting for the lights to stop flashing.
  • After wireless pairing once, the controller reconnects automatically each time you power on the PS3.
  • If a wireless controller stops connecting, hold down the PS button for 10 seconds to reset it, then pair again.

Connecting with a USB cable

Plug the small USB connector end of the cable into any USB port on your PS3 — the ports are on the front and back of the console. Plug the other end into the controller's charging port, which is on the bottom edge. The controller will light up and work when ready. You do not need to do anything else.

The USB cable also charges the controller's battery while it is plugged in. If you leave it connected for a few hours, the battery will be full. You can keep playing while it charges.

Pairing a wireless controller for the first time

Turn on your PS3 console. On the controller, locate the PS button in the center (it has the PlayStation symbol) and the Bluetooth button on the back, just below the shoulder buttons. Press and hold both buttons at the same time for about 5 seconds. Do not let go.

The four lights on the controller will start flashing. Keep holding the buttons until one light stops flashing and stays lit — this usually takes 10 to 15 seconds. When one light stays solid, the controller is paired. The PS3 will recognize it and you can start playing.

You only need to do this pairing step once per controller. After that, the wireless controller will connect automatically whenever you turn on the PS3.

What to do if the wireless controller will not connect

If a controller that was previously paired stops working, try holding down the PS button for 10 seconds. This resets the wireless connection. Then pair it again using the same method: press and hold the PS button and Bluetooth button together until one light stays solid.

If the controller still will not connect, plug it in with a USB cable and let it charge for at least 30 minutes. A controller with a very low battery sometimes cannot pair wirelessly. Once it has charged, try the wireless pairing steps again.

If you are pairing a second or third controller and the first one keeps disconnecting, move the controllers farther apart while pairing. Wireless interference can happen when multiple controllers are very close together during the pairing process.

Using multiple controllers at once

The PS3 supports up to seven wireless controllers connected at the same time. Each one pairs separately using the same PS button and Bluetooth button method. Pair them one at a time, waiting until each controller's light stops flashing before you start pairing the next one.

You can also mix wired and wireless — plug one controller in with USB and pair others wirelessly. This is useful if one controller's battery is low and you want to keep playing without waiting for it to charge.

Charging your wireless controller

Wireless controllers charge through the same USB port where you plug them in to play wired. Connect the USB cable to the controller and to any USB port on the PS3, or to a computer, phone charger, or any device with a USB port. The controller charges whether the PS3 is on or off.

A full charge usually takes 2 to 3 hours. While charging, the light on the controller will be orange or red. When the light turns off, the battery is full. You can unplug it and use it wirelessly, or leave it plugged in to keep playing.

Troubleshooting connection problems

If a controller is plugged in with USB but does not work, try a different USB port on the PS3. Some ports can fail over time. If it works in a different port, the first port may need repair.

If the USB cable itself is damaged — frayed, bent, or cracked — replace it with a new one. A damaged cable can stop working suddenly or work only when bent a certain way, which is a sign to get a replacement.

For wireless controllers, keep the PS3 and controller in the same room and within about 20 feet of each other. Walls and other electronics can weaken the wireless signal. If the controller keeps disconnecting during play, move closer to the console or remove obstacles between them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a PS3 controller on a PS4 or PS5?

No. PS3 controllers do not work on PS4 or PS5 consoles. Each PlayStation generation uses its own controller type. If you want to use a controller on a newer console, you need the controller made for that console.

What if I lost the USB cable that came with my controller?

You can buy a replacement USB cable designed for PS3 controllers. Look for a cable labeled for PS3 or with a connector that matches your controller's charging port. Most electronics stores and online retailers carry them for under $10.

Do I need to charge a wired controller?

No. When a controller is plugged in with USB, it draws power from the console and does not use its battery. You can play indefinitely while it is plugged in, and the battery will charge at the same time.

Why do the lights on my wireless controller keep flashing after I pair it?

Flashing lights mean the controller is still trying to pair. Make sure you held both the PS button and Bluetooth button long enough — at least 5 seconds. Try again, holding them for a full 10 seconds this time, until one light stops flashing and stays solid.

Can I pair a PS3 controller to my computer?

Yes, if your computer has Bluetooth. The pairing process is different from the PS3 — you will need to check your computer's Bluetooth settings and follow the pairing instructions for your operating system. Some computers may need driver software to recognize the controller.