Start with the symptom
Release the sticks on a stable surface. Note whether the game moves on its own, whether one stick is affected and whether the behaviour changes after moving and releasing it. Confirm that you are testing the intended controller, without a second virtual controller applying another mapping.
Separate game settings from controller observations
Run the center check in the stick tester and repeat it. Then compare with another supported game or application. An offset reported in the browser is useful evidence, but it does not identify a damaged component.
Circularity measures the outer sweep, not resting drift. No circularity percentage in this site establishes that a DualSense needs replacement. Keep the raw observations rather than assigning a diagnosis from a single number.
Use the official reset and support path
Sony’s troubleshooting instructions describe resetting a DualSense and reconnecting it to a PS5. Follow the linked instructions for the precise sequence and current support options. A reset is not a guarantee that a physical problem will disappear.
Understand what calibration changes
Game settings, browser visual deadzones and hardware calibration are different things. Our visual deadzone does not change your controller. The separate PlayStation calibration area uses model-specific WebHID commands and is still marked as awaiting physical verification.
Do not pour cleaner into the stick opening or assume that a generic drying time makes an internal cleaning procedure safe. Follow the exact model’s care instructions and check manufacturer support before opening the device.
Prepare a useful support report
Record the model, connection, firmware if known, software environment and whether the issue repeats. Include untouched-stick observations and what changed after each supported troubleshooting step. Keep any simulated report separate from your real observations.