How to check your controller firmware
Connect your controller over a wired USB cable to your PC or Mac, open this page in Google Chrome, Edge, or Brave, and click Connect Controller via WebHID to extract the raw firmware build revision string.
Firmware data is stored in the controller's on-board EEPROM/flash memory. This page sends a low-level hardware feature request over WebHID to retrieve the exact hardware version, software revision, and build timestamp without needing a PlayStation or Nintendo console.
What the version number means
The firmware version string indicates the exact software compilation flashed to your controller's microcontroller, detailing Bluetooth stack revisions, haptic DSP profiles, and power management firmware.
On Sony DualSense controllers, firmware revisions look like 0224, 0307, or 0402. The first digits designate primary architecture and haptic DSP calibrations, while subsequent digits represent patch revisions that address wireless stability, trigger motor resistance profiles, and charging logic.
How to update, by platform
Firmware updates must be installed through official platform utilities: Sony's Firmware updater for DualSense on PC/PS5, the Xbox Accessories app on Windows/Xbox, or Nintendo System Settings.
For PlayStation controllers on PC, download Sony's official 'Firmware updater for DualSense wireless controller' desktop application. For Xbox controllers, open the pre-installed 'Xbox Accessories' app on Windows 10/11 and select 'Device info' > 'Update'. For Switch Pro controllers, connect to a Switch dock and navigate to System Settings > Controllers and Sensors > Update Controllers.
Which controllers expose firmware over USB
Official Sony DualSense, DualSense Edge, DualShock 4, and Nintendo Switch Pro controllers expose their firmware build strings over USB HID feature reports.
Third-party generic gamepads and Xbox controllers do not expose readable firmware strings to web browsers. Xbox gamepads use encrypted Microsoft GIP protocol pipes that are restricted to authorized Windows UWP applications like Xbox Accessories.
Do firmware updates fix drift?
Firmware updates almost never fix analog stick drift. Stick drift is a physical mechanical defect caused by potentiometer wear, debris, or spring fatigue, not an outdated software algorithm.
While manufacturers occasionally tweak default software deadzones in firmware patches to mask slight drift on newly manufactured units, true drift requires physical sensor cleaning, replacement, or permanent hardware recalibration via our calibration fix tool.
When a firmware update is worth doing
Updating controller firmware is worthwhile when troubleshooting Bluetooth connection drops, audio crackling through the headset jack, erratic adaptive trigger resistance, or high input latency.
Major firmware updates frequently refine Bluetooth packet timing, reduce wireless interference jitter, and optimize trigger motor power curves. If your controller functions flawlessly, updating is optional unless required by a specific game title.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I check my controller's firmware version?
Connect it by USB and open this page in Chrome or Edge. The firmware build string is requested directly from the controller and displayed โ no console or app required.
Can I update firmware from this page?
No. Updating requires the manufacturer's own tool โ the PS5 console, the Xbox Accessories app or Nintendo system settings. This page tells you which version you are on.
Why can I not see my Xbox controller firmware?
Xbox controllers do not expose their firmware version over HID to browsers. Use the Xbox Accessories app on Windows or your console.
Will updating firmware fix stick drift?
Almost never. Drift is a mechanical problem with the stick hardware. Firmware updates address connectivity, latency and feature bugs.
How often should I update controller firmware?
Only when you have a problem it addresses, or when a manufacturer flags a security or connectivity fix. There is no benefit to updating for its own sake.