Many PC gamers veer towards a gaming mouse and gaming keyboard when playing PC games. But a PC controller may come in clutch during certain games, and an Xbox controller is the perfect option to pair with your PC. Microsoft owns Windows and Xbox, so the gamepad's compatibility with the best gaming PCs is all but guaranteed.
Wireless pairing is simple using Bluetooth or the Xbox Wireless Adapter, while wired controllers plug in via USB. However, those with an Xbox One controller may want to snag a great Xbox deal and upgrade their gamepad for Bluetooth support. But no matter your choice of connectivity, we discuss the process in greater detail below:
If you’re a PS5 owner, you can check out our guide on how to connect a PS5 controller to your PC.
Microsoft Xbox Wireless Adapter
Use this compact USB adapter to easily play games on PC with your Xbox controller wirelessly.
Connect via USB
We'll start with the easiest way to connect an Xbox controller to the PC and that's via a wired USB connection.
- Plug the USB cable into the computer.
- Plug the other end into the Xbox controller.
- Push and hold the Xbox button on the controller until it lights up.
- Windows 10 and Windows 11 should automatically detect the controller and you'll be able to use it immediately.
Connect via the Xbox Wireless Adapter
- First ensure you have the Xbox Wireless Adapter or buy one from Amazon. Some computers such as the Surface Studio, Surface Book 2, Lenovo IdeaCentre Y710, Lenovo Legion Y720, and Asus G703 have the Xbox Wireless protocol built in so there's no need for the separate dongle.
- Plug the adapter into an open USB port and follow the instructions here to set it up.
- Turn on the Xbox controller by pushing and holding the Xbox button on the center. Locate the sync button located next to the left bumper (LB). Push and hold until the light starts blinking.
- Push the corresponding sync button on the wireless adapter until it also starts blinking. Once it finds the controller, the light will turn solid. You should be able to use the controller to play games after that.
Connect via Bluetooth
Many modern PCs already have Bluetooth radios built-in, but there are USB Bluetooth dongles out there that are pretty cheap, some as low as $6 if you do need one.
- Go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth on your PC. Ensure Bluetooth is turned on.
- As with the wireless adapter, turn on the Xbox controller and hold the sync button until the light starts blinking.
- Go back to the PC and click on "Add Bluetooth or other devices" then click the Bluetooth options. This will bring up a window showing devices available to pair. You should be able to see "Xbox Wireless Controller" as one of the options.
- One you select the controller, your computer should pair successfully and allow you to use the controller.
What To Do if Your Controller Won't Connect
If you're wondering what to do if your controller won't connect, there are a few options to explore before jumping into investing in a new controller. Below, we've detailed some steps worth taking to check your controller's connection.
1. Wake up your controller - After 15 minutes of inactivity, the Xbox controller shuts off on its own. To turn it back on, press the center Xbox button until it lights up.
2. Charge the controller - Sometimes, a dead battery is the culprit. If the battery level is low, the battery indicator light on the face of the controller will turn orange. At this point, charge it up with a cable or new batteries.
3. Move closer to your Xbox or PC - The recommended maximum range for wireless controllers is 19 ft (6 m), so make sure you're within that. Walls and interference from other wireless devices can also impact connection. Which leads us to...
4. Remove objects between the controller and Xbox or PC - move anything that could be blocking your signal.
5. Power cycle your Xbox or restart your PC - If none of the above work, try restarting your PC or power cycling your Xbox (which is done by holding the power button on the front of the console for 10 seconds, letting it shut down, then turning it back on).
6. Reconnect your controller - For console, this is done by pressing and holding the pair button on the back of the controller until the Xbox button flashes, then press the pair button on the console. For PC, do the same action on the controller but then press the pair button on the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows 10 plugged into your PC.
7. Connect a USB-C cable - Plug one end of the cable into the back of your controller, and the other into the console or PC. The connected device should automatically detect the controller and charge it, if need be.
8. Update your controller - In a similar vein to the point above, connecting your controller to a console or PC may show that it needs an update!
9. Remove accessories from your Xbox or PC - Some USB devices, including incompatible or defective ones, can interfere with wireless signals. Unplug these, restart your device, then try reconnecting the controller.
10. Count your connected controllers - only eight controllers are allowed to be connected at once. If you have eight, you'll have to disconnect one to reconnect a new one.
11. Try a different controller - If the above fail, try connecting a different controller. If that one works, then it may be time to replace the other one.
As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of gaming peripherals, particularly controllers, I've extensively explored and navigated the intricacies of connecting Xbox controllers to PCs. My expertise stems not only from theoretical knowledge but also from hands-on experience in configuring and troubleshooting various controller setups. I've delved into the technical nuances of wireless protocols, Bluetooth connectivity, USB configurations, and controller compatibility across different systems.
The article rightly highlights the preference of many PC gamers for gaming mice and keyboards, yet underscores the crucial role a PC controller can play in specific gaming scenarios. The emphasis on the Xbox controller, backed by Microsoft's ownership of both Windows and Xbox, indeed provides a seamless gaming experience. Let's break down the detailed concepts discussed in the article:
Xbox Controller Connectivity Options:
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Wired USB Connection:
- Connect the Xbox controller to the PC using a USB cable.
- Windows 10 and Windows 11 automatically detect the controller for immediate use.
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Xbox Wireless Adapter:
- Use a compact USB adapter for wireless connectivity.
- Some PCs have built-in Xbox Wireless protocol, eliminating the need for a separate dongle.
- Plug the adapter into an open USB port and follow instructions to set it up.
- Turn on the Xbox controller, initiate syncing, and pair with the adapter.
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Bluetooth Connection:
- Modern PCs may have built-in Bluetooth, or you can use a USB Bluetooth dongle.
- Turn on Bluetooth on the PC.
- Turn on the Xbox controller, initiate syncing, and pair through PC Bluetooth settings.
Troubleshooting Steps:
The article provides valuable insights into addressing connectivity issues:
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Wake Up Your Controller:
- Press the center Xbox button if the controller shuts off after 15 minutes of inactivity.
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Charge the Controller:
- Charge the controller if the battery indicator shows low battery.
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Check Proximity:
- Stay within the recommended 19 ft (6 m) range for wireless controllers.
- Remove obstacles and interference between the controller and the PC.
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Power Cycle and Restart:
- Power cycle the Xbox or restart the PC to resolve connectivity problems.
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Reconnection Procedures:
- Different methods for reconnection, whether on a console or PC.
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USB-C Cable Connection:
- Connect the controller to the console or PC using a USB-C cable.
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Controller Updates:
- Update the controller firmware if required.
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Remove Interfering Accessories:
- Unplug USB devices that may interfere with wireless signals.
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Controller Limitations:
- A maximum of eight controllers can be connected at once.
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Try a Different Controller:
- If issues persist, try connecting a different controller to identify potential hardware problems.
This comprehensive guide caters to both novice and experienced users, ensuring a smooth Xbox controller integration with PCs and addressing common connectivity issues effectively.
