Is my controller working at all?
Open the online gamepad tester, click anywhere on the page, then press A or Cross. If a "Connected" badge appears, the controller works and the problem is in your game or its settings. If nothing appears, work through the fixes below.
Fix 1: press a button, in the active tab
For privacy, the Gamepad API only reveals a controller after you press a button while the page has focus. Moving a stick isn't always enough. Click the page first, then press a face button.
Fix 2: use a data cable and a different port
Charge-only USB cables are the most common hidden cause. They power the controller but carry no data. Try the cable that came with the controller, or one you know transfers files. Plug straight into the computer, not an unpowered hub, and try another port.
Fix 3: check that the system sees it
| System | Where to look |
|---|---|
| Windows | Start → type "Set up USB game controllers" (joy.cpl) |
| macOS | System Settings → Game Controllers (or Bluetooth) |
| Linux | ls /dev/input/js* or your desktop's game controller settings |
| ChromeOS / Android | Settings → Bluetooth (or connected devices) |
If the system doesn't list it, the browser can't see it either. The problem is the cable, pairing or driver, not the web page.
Fix 4: close apps that grab the controller
Steam, DS4Windows, DSX, reWASD, Parsec and some game launchers can take exclusive control. Close them fully (check the system tray), then refresh the tester.
Fix 5: re-pair Bluetooth
- Remove the controller from your Bluetooth device list.
- Put it in pairing mode: PS5 = PS + Create, PS4 = PS + Share, Xbox = Pair button on top, Switch Pro = sync button.
- Pair it again, then press a button on the tester.
Fix 6: try another browser
All modern browsers support controllers, but some pads map better in Chrome or Edge. If Firefox or Safari shows nothing, try Chrome. On Linux, Chrome and Firefox read different input devices, so one may work when the other doesn't.
Fix 7: update and restart
Update your browser, operating system and controller firmware (Xbox Accessories app, PlayStation Accessories app). Restart the computer. Old browser versions sometimes don't recognize newer controllers.
Detected, but buttons are in the wrong place?
That's a mapping issue, not a fault. Pads in DirectInput or Switch mode, and many generic USB pads, don't use the browser's standard layout. Switch the controller's mode (often a switch or button combo) or use the controller input test to see raw button numbers. For more about each system, see how to test a controller on PC.
FAQ
Why does my controller work in games but not the tester?
Games may use a different input system or Steam Input. Press a button while the tester tab is focused, and close Steam so the browser gets access.
Why is my PS3 controller not detected on Windows?
Windows needs an extra driver for the DualShock 3. Install one (such as DsHidMini), then test again.
Does the tester need permission to see my controller?
No pop-up is needed for the main tester; pressing a button is the permission. Only the advanced gyro mode asks you to pick a device.