There’s nothing more frustrating than when you’re in the middle of a gaming session, and suddenly, the most important button on your PS4 controller—the X button—stops responding.

Whether you’re trying to leap across platforms in your favorite action game, or just trying to select an option in the menu, an unresponsive X button can really put a damper on your experience.

But don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many PS4 players have faced this issue at one point or another, and the good news is, it’s often something that can be fixed with just a little troubleshooting.

There are a variety of reasons why the X button might stop working, ranging from simple software glitches to more complicated hardware issues. Luckily, with a bit of patience and the right solutions, you can get your controller back to full functionality in no time.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the possible causes and offer clear, step-by-step solutions to get that pesky X button working again.

PS4 controller x button not working

Ready to get back in the game? Let’s dive in and fix that X button once and for all!

1. Understanding the Problem

First, let’s take a step back and understand what might be causing the issue. When the X button on your PS4 controller is unresponsive, there are a few possible culprits:

  • Software glitches: Sometimes, software bugs or a frozen system can cause buttons to stop responding temporarily.
  • Hardware damage: Physical damage or dirt inside the controller could prevent the X button from registering your press.
  • Connection issues: If your controller isn’t properly synced with the PS4, buttons may not function correctly.
  • Settings conflicts: Certain settings or configurations on the PS4 can affect how the controller functions.

Now, let’s dive into the specific solutions.

2. Rebooting Your PS4 and Controller

Before jumping into complex troubleshooting, the first thing to try is simply rebooting your PS4 and controller. A restart can fix many issues, especially if they’re software-related.

Steps to Restart Your PS4:

  1. Power off the PS4 by holding the power button for about 7 seconds until you hear a second beep.
  2. Unplug the PS4 for 30 seconds.
  3. Plug the PS4 back in and turn it on.

Steps to Restart Your Controller:

  1. Power off the controller by holding the PS button for 10 seconds.
  2. Reset the controller by pressing the small reset button on the back of the controller using a paperclip or pin.
  3. Reconnect the controller to the PS4 via USB cable and press the PS button.

This simple step often resolves many minor glitches, so give it a shot before moving on to other methods.

3. Check for Software Updates

Sometimes, the issue with your PS4 controller could be related to outdated software on either the PS4 system or the controller itself. It’s always a good idea to ensure that your system and controller have the latest updates installed. Here’s how to check:

To Update Your PS4:

  1. Go to Settings on the PS4.
  2. Select System Software Update.
  3. If there’s an available update, select Download and Install.

To Update Your Controller:

  1. Connect the controller to the PS4 via USB.
  2. In the Settings menu, select Devices and then Bluetooth Devices.
  3. If an update is available for your controller, you’ll be prompted to install it.

Keeping your system and controller up-to-date can resolve a lot of issues, including unresponsive buttons.

4. Clean the Controller

If your X button isn’t working, there’s a chance that dust, dirt, or grime has accumulated inside the controller, preventing it from functioning properly. Over time, dirt can get lodged under the buttons, causing them to stick or become unresponsive.

Here’s how to clean your controller safely:

  1. Turn off the controller and unplug it if it’s wired.
  2. Use a soft cloth to wipe down the exterior, paying special attention to the area around the X button.
  3. For hard-to-reach spots, use a compressed air canister to blow out any debris.
  4. If there’s dirt under the X button, use a cotton swab dipped in isopropyl alcohol to gently clean the button’s edges.

Be careful not to get any liquid inside the controller, as it could cause damage. A clean controller can sometimes fix the problem of a sticky or unresponsive X button.

5. Check the Controller’s Connection to the PS4

If your controller is wirelessly connected, there might be a connectivity issue preventing the X button from working. Re-establishing a proper connection can often fix the problem.

Steps to Reconnect the Controller:

  1. Turn off the PS4 and unplug it for about 30 seconds.
  2. Reconnect the controller to the PS4 using a USB cable.
  3. Press the PS button on the controller to pair it with the PS4.
  4. If the controller is wireless, check the Bluetooth settings in Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices to make sure it’s connected.

A poor connection could cause your X button to act up, so ensure the controller is syncing properly.

6. Test the Controller on Another Device

To rule out whether the problem is with the controller or the PS4 itself, test the controller on another device. If the X button works fine on another device, like a PC or mobile phone, then the issue likely lies with your PS4. If the button is unresponsive on multiple devices, the problem is most likely a hardware issue with the controller.

7. Reset the Controller

If none of the above steps have worked, a full reset of your controller could help. This process restores the controller to its default settings, which can resolve any software-related issues causing the X button to stop working.

How to Reset Your PS4 Controller:

  1. Locate the small reset button on the back of the controller near the L2 button.
  2. Use a paperclip or small pin to press the button inside the tiny hole.
  3. Hold the button down for 5 seconds, then release.
  4. Reconnect the controller to the PS4 via USB and press the PS button.

A reset can be a quick and easy way to fix button issues, especially if they’re software-related.

8. Consider a Replacement

If you’ve tried everything above and your X button still isn’t working, it may be time to consider replacing the controller. If your controller is still under warranty, you can contact Sony’s customer support for a replacement or repair. For out-of-warranty controllers, you can buy a new or refurbished one, or consider getting a third-party controller.

9. Prevention: Taking Care of Your PS4 Controller

To avoid future problems with your PS4 controller, there are a few habits that can help keep it in top shape:

  • Keep it clean: Regularly wipe down your controller to prevent dirt buildup.
  • Avoid dropping it: Physical damage from drops can cause buttons to become unresponsive.
  • Store it properly: When you’re not using it, store your controller in a safe place to protect it from damage.
  • Use a controller grip: This will not only enhance your grip but also protect your controller from wear and tear.

Conclusion

Dealing with a PS4 controller X button that won’t work can be frustrating, but as we’ve seen, it’s usually a fixable problem! Whether it’s a simple software glitch, a connection issue, or something that requires a bit of cleaning, there are plenty of solutions that can get your controller back to its prime.

By following the troubleshooting steps in this guide, you’ll be able to identify the root cause and restore the functionality of your controller in no time.

Remember, if all else fails, don’t hesitate to reset your controller or check for software updates that might resolve any underlying issues. And if your controller is still unresponsive after all the fixes, it could be time to consider getting a replacement, especially if it’s no longer under warranty.

The key takeaway? You don’t have to let a malfunctioning button ruin your gaming sessions. With a little patience and some simple fixes, you’ll be ready to jump back into your favorite games and enjoy uninterrupted fun. So go ahead—press that X and keep playing!

With your PS4 controller back in action, you can now focus on what really matters: having an awesome gaming experience!