How to Change Light Color on PS5 Controller: Fast-Track Guide to Customizing Your PS5 Controller

The PlayStation 5 DualSense controller features an integrated light bar that changes color depending on in-game events, player profiles, and usage scenarios. While you don't have the option to set custom static colors through system settings, you can influence the light color based on usage context. Typically, the colors reflect player number (blue for Player 1, red for Player 2, green and purple for others), in-game status, or battery level. Some games and apps use unique lighting schemes to enhance immersion.

To "change" the light color on your PS5 controller, try these main approaches:

1. Switch User Profiles: When assigning the controller to a different user or guest, the LED color may switch based on player order.
2. Play Compatible Games: Some games change the controller’s lights dynamically (for example, turning red when your character is low on health).
3. Connect to Different Devices: When used on PC or mobile platforms, some third-party software may allow you to customize the light bar, but PlayStation consoles don't natively offer this feature (as of the latest firmware).
4. Charging Status: The light bar also changes color/pulses when charging—a useful visual indicator.

If you’re looking to enhance the overall ambiance of your gaming setup, as a designer I’d recommend integrating accent lighting in your gaming zone, as well as planning out your room’s light sources for contrast and mood. Tools like Room Planner can help you visualize how different lighting color schemes might look in your space, ensuring your hardware’s LED effects blend harmoniously with your room’s overall aesthetic.

Tips 1:

If your goal is a more personalized controller look, consider controller skins or custom light bar decals (adhesive films) that slightly tint the light output—though these don’t redress the underlying LED color.

FAQ

Q: Can you manually change the DualSense controller’s light bar color from system settings?

A: No, the PS5 doesn’t offer an option to directly set a custom color for the controller light bar through system settings.

Q: Are there third-party apps to customize the light bar color on PC and mobile?

A: Yes, certain third-party tools for Windows may allow advanced users to change controller light colors when the DualSense is used on PC.

Q: Does the controller light color mean anything in games?

A: Yes, in compatible games, the light color may indicate health, alerts, or other gameplay elements.

Q: Can I turn off the light bar on my PS5 controller?

A: The light can’t be fully turned off but might dim during rest mode or charging.

Q: Why does my controller light bar flash different colors while charging?

A: Pulsing or flashing colors while charging indicate different stages of the battery charging process.