Why Can’t My PS5 Controller Wake Up the Console?

You press the PS button, but nothing happens—your console stays asleep. It’s frustrating, especially when you're ready to jump into a game.

If your PS5 controller can’t wake the console, the problem could be software-related, a faulty connection, or even a hardware issue. Most cases can be fixed quickly.

Before you panic, try the following proven solutions. I’ve gathered them based on personal experience and real customer cases, so you won’t waste time guessing.

Was It an Improper Shutdown?

A non-standard shutdown—like a sudden power cut—can leave your console in a frozen or unresponsive state.

If the PS5 was improperly turned off or crashed in rest mode, it may stop responding to wireless controller signals. Manually restarting the console can often resolve this.

Dive Deeper: When Rest Mode Crashes Cause Wake-Up Issues

Sometimes, your PS5 doesn't shut down properly—especially during a blackout or software crash. When that happens, the system might get stuck and ignore Bluetooth signals from the controller.

What to do:

• Press the power button on the PS5 itself (not the controller).
• Hold it until you hear two beeps (about 7 seconds).
• Wait for the console to boot into safe mode or resume normally.

Once it's up, test whether the controller can wake the console next time. If it can, you’ve likely solved the issue. If not, continue with other checks.

Is It a Controller Driver Problem?

Your controller might not be communicating with the console because its software is out of date or glitched.

Connect the controller to the PS5 with a USB cable and check for firmware updates. If prompted, install the update to restore functionality.

Dive Deeper: Controller Firmware Glitches and Fixes

Your controller has internal firmware, just like the PS5. When updates are skipped or interrupted, the controller may stop working wirelessly—or stop responding entirely.

How to fix:

1. Connect the controller using the original USB-C cable.
2. Go to Settings > Accessories > Controllers.
3. Check if there's a prompt to update.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions until the update is complete.

Keeping your firmware up to date ensures better compatibility, reduces bugs, and usually restores Bluetooth functionality, including the ability to wake the console.

Is There a Connection Issue?

Sometimes, the problem isn’t the controller—it’s the Bluetooth link between the controller and the console.

Reconnect the controller by plugging it in with a USB cable. Then go to the Bluetooth settings and re-pair the device if needed.

Dive Deeper: Connection Loss and Re-Pairing Instructions

Wireless connections can randomly fail. Bluetooth can be interfered with by other devices, or the system may have dropped the controller from memory.

Steps to reconnect:

• Use a USB-C cable to connect the controller directly.
• Once connected, press the PS button to pair it again.
• Navigate to Settings > Accessories > Bluetooth Accessories.
• If your controller is missing, add it manually by selecting “Pair New Device.”

Reset your controller:

• Turn off the PS5.
• Find the small reset button on the back of the controller.
• Press it using a paperclip for about 5 seconds.
• Reconnect via USB and press the PS button again.

This often resolves wake-up problems caused by pairing errors or software inconsistencies.

Could It Be a Power or Hardware Fault?

No matter how many times you press the PS button, nothing happens. It might not be the controller—it might be the console’s power system.

Check the PS5’s power cable and outlet. If the system doesn’t respond even after manual restart, contact Sony support for further diagnosis.

Dive Deeper: How to Spot and Handle Hardware-Level Failures

There are rare situations where the PS5’s power supply or internal components have failed. This isn’t common, but it does happen—especially after electrical surges or improper ventilation.

Quick checklist:

If your PS5 shows no sign of life even after all these checks, don’t attempt to open it. Repairs require authorized service, especially if it’s still under warranty.

Is the PS Button Itself Broken?

Sometimes, it’s not a system problem—it’s the PS button that’s physically damaged.

Try using other buttons or plugging in another controller to see if the issue is isolated. If the PS button doesn’t work, a replacement might be necessary.

Dive Deeper: Testing for Button Malfunctions

PS buttons take a lot of wear and tear. If the button feels stuck, loose, or unresponsive, it might be physically broken.

Test checklist:

• Try waking the console using the “Create” or “Options” button.
• Plug in a second controller and press the PS button.
• Use the first controller while connected by USB to see if it works in menus.

If everything works except the PS button, you’ve found the problem.

You can:

• Send the controller in for repair if it’s under warranty.
• Replace the PS button internally if you're comfortable with disassembly.
• Buy a new controller if cost-effective.

Final Tip: Update Everything

Before diving into hardware repairs or replacements, always make sure both your console and controller are running the latest software versions.

Outdated system firmware can cause controller wake-up issues, even if everything else looks fine.

Go to Settings > System > System Software > System Software Update and Settings and install any available updates.

Conclusion

If your PS5 controller can’t wake the console, the issue is usually minor—like a missed update, weak connection, or small glitch. Try manual restarts, USB pairing, and updates first before assuming it’s a hardware failure.