D-Button Installation Guide

PlayStation 4 DualShock 4 Controller Installation Video

PlayStation 5 DualSense Controller Installation Video

(Out of Date, See Written Instructions Below)

2025 Update 

Since we originally made this page, the DualSense has gone through multiple product revisions, and we've switched to a different injection molding process for our D-Buttons. As a result, the video tutorial above is no longer up to date. While we work on an updated video, here are some updated installation instructions for any aspiring DIYers.

Quick instructions

• Disassemble the controller. Instructions for disassembly can be found here.
• Remove the D-pad RCP.
• Examine the underside of the D-Buttons to find a notch.
• Each of the four buttons should have the notch in a different location. When inserting the D-Buttons into the faceplate, orient these notches so they're facing towards the top of the controller.
• Replace the RCP, making sure that it's seated properly with the four faceplate pegs inserted through the four RCP holes, with no bunching around the edges. Note: if you're attempting this install on the DualSense Edge, use the original RCP that came with the DualSense Edge.
• Reassemble the controller. This process no longer includes a need to install an extra rubber dome.

Detailed Instructions

Use this section if you prefer a more detailed written explanation. 

Start by disassembling the controller. Instructions for disassembly can be found here.

D-Button Installation

Locate the D-pad area of the faceplate. Remove the D-pad RCP by pulling it off the faceplate pegs, then lift out the OEM D-pad. Next, examine the undersides of the four Battle Beaver D-Buttons to find a notch on each button. Each of the four buttons should have the notch in a different location. 

When inserting the D-Buttons into the faceplate, orient these notches so they're facing towards the top of the controller. If the notches face the wrong direction, the D-Buttons won't sit properly in the faceplate and their response and feel will suffer. Once you have them placed, return the original D-pad RCP, making sure that it's seated properly with the four faceplate pegs inserted through the four RCP holes, with no bunching around the edges. Note: if you're attempting this install on the DualSense Edge, use the original RCP that came with the DualSense Edge.

That's all! Reassemble the controller, do a quick test to make sure the reassembly process was successful and everything works, and then enjoy your clean and accurate directional inputs.

Quick Reassembly Instructions

• Return the midplate to the faceplate, making sure to avoid crushing any of the orange ribbon cables, then plug those ribbon cables into the board.
• Screw in the two midplate screws, one above each large handle rumble. Place the battery tray, screw it in, then plug in that ribbon cable as well.
• Plug in the battery, then place the battery onto the battery tray.
• Grab the rearshell, then hook it over the bumper/trigger area and close it, similar to closing a book. 
• Squeeze both handles, then apply pressure to the two center retaining clips to finish securing the shells.
• Screw in the four rearshell screws, and return the L1/R1 bumpers.
• Last, insert the trim piece. Locate the two prongs towards the top of the trim piece, then insert them at an angle into the areas on either side of the Touchpad. From there, press the trim piece down along the front of the controller, then press the hooks into the handles to finish.