---
title: DualSense on Kiln — Controller Setup for PC | Kiln
description: DualSense setup on Kiln, a PlayStation 5 emulator for Windows PC: DualSense over USB, Xbox controller, and keyboard mapping. Connect the pad before launch. Own the games you already have. Not affiliated with Sony.
canonical: https://consolepc.net/boot/dualsense-on-pc
updated: 2026-10-13
---

# DualSense.

DualSense over USB is the main pad. Xbox pads work on the same layout. Keyboard mapping covers no-pad days.

## Facts (2026-10-13)

- **Main pad:** DualSense over USB
- **Also works:** Xbox controller, keyboard
- **Timing:** Connect before launching
- **Haptics:** Per-title, e.g. Ragnarok

## Setup

1. Connect the DualSense over USB before launching Kiln. Wireless pairings are not the lab path.

2. Launch, boot system software, and confirm the pad in a responding menu — sticks, triggers, face buttons.

3. Xbox controllers use the same layout automatically. Keyboard maps onto pad controls when no controller is around.

A frozen boot can look like a dead controller. Confirm the game is actually running before remapping anything.

## What works and what does not

Mapped everywhere: sticks, triggers, face buttons, d-pad, shoulders, Start/Select equivalents.

Haptics are per-title — verified on [God of War Ragnarok](/run/god-of-war-ragnarok-ps5-emulator), not promised everywhere.

Not promised on every game: touchpad, gyro, and adaptive triggers. If a title needs them, the lab note says so.

## Two-pad and keyboard notes

Local versus with two pads is verified on fighters like Street Fighter 6 and Tekken 8 — both pads connected before launch.

Keyboard mapping covers WASD plus face-button equivalents. It works; a pad is still the real answer for timing-heavy games like [Stellar Blade](/run/stellar-blade-ps5-emulator).

## FAQ

### Does the DualSense work on Kiln?

Yes, over USB: sticks, triggers, and face buttons mapped. Connect before launching.

### Can I use an Xbox controller?

Yes. Xbox pads work on the same layout as the DualSense.

### Do adaptive triggers and haptics work?

Haptics are verified per title, not promised globally. Touchpad, gyro, and adaptive triggers are not promised on every game.

## Related

- [Boot.](https://consolepc.net/boot)
- [God of War Ragnarök — PS5 emulator.](https://consolepc.net/run/god-of-war-ragnarok-ps5-emulator)
- [Gran Turismo 7 — PS5 emulator.](https://consolepc.net/run/gran-turismo-7-ps5-emulator)
- [Best settings.](https://consolepc.net/lab/best-settings-ps5-emulator)
- [Boot system software.](https://consolepc.net/boot/boot-system-software)

## Download

Free Windows app: [Download Kiln](https://consolepc.net/download)

Markdown mirror: https://consolepc.net/boot/dualsense-on-pc.md