Got a dusty old PS3 controller lying around? Good news — you don’t need to let it go to waste! You can use it to game on your Windows PC. It’s a fun way to enjoy your favorite PC games with a controller you already know and love.
Setting it up isn’t hard, but it does take a few steps. Follow along, and soon your PS3 controller will be part of your PC gaming arsenal. Let’s dive in!
What You’ll Need
- Your PlayStation 3 controller
- A mini USB cable (the same one that charges the controller)
- Windows PC (Windows 10 or 11 works great)
- Internet connection
- Software: SCP Toolkit
Step 1: Connect the Controller
First, plug your PS3 controller into your PC using the mini USB cable. Windows might try to install some drivers automatically. Don’t worry if it doesn’t do much — we’ll fix that next.
Step 2: Download SCP Toolkit
SCP Toolkit is a free app that makes your PS3 controller work like an Xbox 360 controller on your PC. That’s important because most PC games support Xbox controllers out of the box.
Here’s how to get it:
- Go to the official SCP Toolkit GitHub page or find a trusted source.
- Download the installer package.
- Run the installer and follow the prompts.
Step 3: Install SCP Toolkit Drivers
Once installed, look for a shortcut on your desktop: SCP Driver Installer.
Open it, and you’ll see checkboxes for different options. Here’s what you want to do:
- Check Install DualShock 3 driver
- Check Install Bluetooth driver if you plan to use your controller wirelessly
- Select the correct controller and Bluetooth device from the list
Then click Install. It may take a minute or two. If all goes well, you’ll see green checkmarks. That means success!
Step 4: Test It Out
Press the PS button (the round one in the center of the controller). The lights should blink, and then one should stay on. This means it’s connected.
You can now open any game that supports controllers — like Rocket League, Hades, or Cuphead — and give it a test ride. Your PC will think your PS3 controller is a standard Xbox controller.
Optional: Set Up Bluetooth for Wireless Gaming
Want to cut the cord and game wirelessly? You’ll need a compatible Bluetooth adapter.
Once SCP Toolkit installs the Bluetooth driver, here’s what to do next:
- Unplug your controller from USB
- Press the PS button to sync it via Bluetooth
- Wait for one light to stay on — you’re connected!
Now you’re free to sit back and relax with zero cables in your way!
Keep in Mind
- SCP Toolkit works great, but it’s not actively updated anymore. Some users prefer newer tools like DS4Windows, but those are more for PS4 controllers.
- PS3 controllers might have slight lag over Bluetooth. USB is more stable.
- If your controller isn’t recognized, try using a different USB port or reinstalling the driver.
Enjoy Your Games!
Now you know how to turn that old PS3 controller into a slick PC gamepad. Whether you’re racing, fighting, or platforming, you’ll get great performance and familiar button placement.
Gaming should be fun — not complicated. And now, thanks to a little technical magic, your beloved PS3 controller has a new life! Happy gaming!
