PS5 Controller Button Sticking: Causes, Fixes, and Prevention

The PS5 controller is one of the most advanced console controllers offering advanced features to improve your gaming experience.

However, despite its flawless performance, button sticking is a common issue that still haunts many users.

If you are one of them, you do not need to wander different platforms to find the solution. 

In today’s article, we will learn about the common reasons that lead to the button sticking issue and the possible ways to prevent such a challenge from affecting your gameplay experience.

The square, R1, R2, L1, L2, or even X buttons can get stuck or become sticky, leading to problems. 

So, without keeping any suspense, let us jump right into the article. 

Common Causes of PS5 Controller Button Sticking

Many reasons can cause your PS5 controller buttons to get stuck and hinder your gaming. Below we have discussed some of the popular reasons. 

1. Dirt And Debris Buildup

One of the most common reasons that lead to unresponsive or stuck buttons on your PS5 controller is the accumulation of dust particles or debris over a while.

It prevents the controller from functioning efficiently and causes challenges during a fun gaming session. 

2. Sticky Substances On The Buttons

Spilling any sticky liquid or other material on the buttons can affect the controller functionality and cause issues.

Thus, users should ensure to take proper care while using the controller to avoid any issues while gaming. 

3. Wear And Tear Of The Buttons

It is also possible that the PS5 controller buttons have become unresponsive due to normal wear and tear over time.

In such a case, the buttons become more rigid, and users need to apply more force to input their commands using such buttons. 

4. Moisture Or Humidity

Placing the PS5 controller in wet environments can expose the controls to moisture or humidity, making them mushy and difficult to press.

You must then dry out the controller using a dry cloth or any other means to resolve the issue. 

5. Signs Of The PS5 Controller Button Sticking

Here we have discussed some signs of the PS5 controller button sticking. Observe these and compare them with your controller to see if you suffer from the same challenge. 

1. Unresponsiveness Of The Buttons

Unresponsiveness of the buttons refers to the failure of the controller to respond to the manual input by the user despite pressing the controls. If the controller button is unresponsive, the controller button may have stuck. 

Controller buttons such as Square, Rectangle, X, L1, L2, R1, R2, and D-pad can get stuck and require cleaning to become responsive again. 

2. Delayed Button Response Time

Stuck controls also lead to delayed button response time. For instance, if you input the command using the X button on the controller. The command would be executed after some time, which hinders the user experience. 

3. Inability To Press Buttons

Your controller buttons may also be stuck if you are unable to press them or they do not respond to the command made by the player even after the use of excessive force or pressure. 

4. Sticking Or Mushy Buttons

Sometimes the controls remain stuck after certain presses or tend to get mushy, which indicates that they are stuck and measures need to be taken to resolve the issue.

Thumbstick buttons like the L3 and R3 on the controller usually tend to become mushy affecting the user input. 

How To Fix PS5 Controller Button Sticking?

The Gamepad Tester is an essential tool for assessing the functionality of game controllers, such as joysticks, Xbox, Nintendo, and PlayStation controllers. It ensures that all buttons are in proper working order.

Now that we know about the causes that lead to the issue, we will now learn about the possible solutions that can help you fix the PS5 controller button sticking and improve your productivity and your gaming experience. 

1. Basic Cleaning

Cleaning The Buttons With A Microfiber Cloth

If the controller buttons have become unresponsive due to the presence of moisture or humidity, you need to wipe them using a dry microfiber cloth to soak up the moisture. 

Furthermore, you can also clean the buttons with a microfiber cloth to clear off the dust particles or debris gathered over time. Make sure to avoid putting excessive pressure on the controller during cleaning. 

Cleaning The Buttons With Compressed Air

Cleaning with compressed air leads to better cleaning compared to a microfiber cloth. Users can blow off the dust using compressed air to fix the issue.

However, it is also vital to state that you must avoid providing air to the openings of the controller, such as the microphone jack, as it can damage the controller. 

Cleaning The Buttons With A Q-tip And Rubbing Alcohol

This form of cleaning is highly efficient if the buttons are stuck due to any sticky objects or particles.

You must rub the Q-tip with a few drops of alcohol and wipe down the areas containing dust or sticky elements gently to allow the buttons to function properly. 

2. Deep Cleaning

Disassembling The Controller

If the dirt particles or any sticky element or liquid have seeped down to the core of the controller, you will have to disassemble the controller and perform a deep clean to resolve the issue. 

You can help from various guides highlighting the steps to disassemble the PS5 controller.

However, it is crucial to state that opening up the controller can void the warranty and thus it is only recommended for advanced users. 

Cleaning The Buttons And Internals With Rubbing Alcohol

Users can also clean the buttons and internals of the controller with rubbing alcohol on a gentle cloth and wipe them out slowly to clear out any liquids or dust gathered over time. 

Reassembling The Controller

Reassembling the controller will allow you to restore the controller buttons to their normal state.

Users can follow the guide showcasing the steps to reassemble the parts after deep cleaning to fix the issue leading to more efficient gaming sessions. 

It is also vital to state that you should exercise precaution to avoid complexity. 

Make sure to follow the step-by-step guide to assemble the controller and keep the screws in a safe place to avoid losing them.

You are also not advised to experiment with other parts inside the controller as it can affect the device’s functioning. 

Preventive Measures For PS5 Controller Button Sticking

Below are some preventive measures you can take to avoid the Ps5 button sticking problem in the future. 

1. Using Controller Skins Or Covers

Having a controller skin or cover prevents the controller from getting damaged due to any spill of liquid or other elements.

Furthermore, it also provides protection against the accumulation of dust, which makes the controller more durable and long-lasting. 

2. Keeping The Controller Clean And Dry

Moisture or humidity over the controller can cause it to stick buttons and become unresponsive.

Thus, you must ensure to keep the controller dry by wiping or cleaning them off regularly using a dry cloth. You can also rub alcohol for better cleaning results.

3. Avoiding Eating Or Drinking While Using The Controller

Eating or drinking while holding the controller can raise the chances of getting spills stuck inside the button gaps of the PS5 controller.

Thus, avoid the consumption of edibles or liquids that can seep down into the controller and make the buttons unresponsive. 

FAQs

Can I Use Water To Clean The Controller Buttons?

No, it is not recommended to use water to clean the controller buttons as it can lead to more moisture or humidity soaking the buttons. You can try rubbing alcohol and wiping using a dry cloth to clean the controller for better results. 

Can I Fix The Issue By Just Pressing The Buttons Repeatedly?

While it is possible to fix the issue by pressing the buttons repeatedly, it does not guarantee that the problem would be resolved. Thus stick to more ideal methods such as cleaning up the controller. 

Will Fixing The Button Sticking Issue Void My Warranty?

Fixing the button issue using the cleaning methods such as wi[ing using a dry cloth would not void the warranty. However, if you have disassembled the PS5 controller for deep cleaning, your warranty will be void.

Conclusion

This was everything you need to know about fixing the PS5 controller button stick issue. Witnessing this problem is common as the controller can be exposed to moisture and lead to challenges. 

However, taking the right precautions such as opting for a controller skin or cover can help reduce the accumulation of dust or prevent any spill of liquid to improve your overall user experience. 

We hope you liked the article. 

Keep Clashing! 

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