DS3 Tool

DS3 Tool is a Windows program that lets you use your PlayStation Sixaxis and DualShock 3 controllers while PC gaming.

For whatever reason, Sony never choose to provide Windows drivers for the game controllers that were sold for the PlayStation 3 console, such as the Sixaxis and DualShock 3. PC gamers who want to use a PS controller have to rely on a third-party solution. Many of these solutions are unreliable and difficult to use, but DS3 Tool has managed to distinguish itself due to how stable and easy to use it is.

DS3 Tool not only lets you connect Sixaxis and DualShock 3 controllers to your PC, but it lets you opt for a Bluetooth connection in addition to supporting the typical USB connections. This is great for gamers who don’t sit right next to their PCs. You will need an individual Bluetooth adapter connected to your PC for each PS controller you want to support, but the handshake and the stability once connected are both very impressive, so gamers who have this option should take advantage of it.

Once your PS controllers are connected, start DS3 Tool. DS3 Tool will list all of the Sixaxis and DualShock 3 controllers that it detects. You can add controllers while DS3 Tool is active, but that method seems to be a little less reliable. Recognition is much more consistent when you let Windows recognize the controller or controllers first and then, run DS3 Tool.

DS3 Tool also lets you calibrate controllers across a range of parameters. It also provides a number of testing tools. Test connection will let you know how stable the connection is and should identify any Bluetooth problems. You can also test the rumble or vibration and the responsiveness, and this is useful information for dialing in the controller before you start playing. You can, of course, continue to calibrate while the game is running by minimizing it.

The app has a bit of a barebones and ugly UI. It’s serviceable, but matters are made worse with strange color choices and ads that are plastered all over the place. DS3 Tool also has never been updated to support DualShock 4 controllers. Fortunately, there are many more options for making DS4s work with PCs, but it would be nice to control all of your PS controllers in one place.

Pros

• Use a PlayStation controller with your PC
• Easy to use
• Works with all DualShock 3 models
• Testing modes for responsiveness and rumble

Cons

• Barebones UI
• Doesn’t support DualShock 4 controllers