X-box is a gaming console in which you can play highly realistic games or highly graphic games with or without the internet It was developed by the Microsoft company and the first Xbox console was released in 2001. and since then, Microsoft has introduced several generations of Xbox consoles. These gaming platforms are designed for playing video games, as well as for various multimedia and online capabilities. Some of the notable Xbox consoles include the original Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One, and the more recent Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. Want to play highly graphic and realistic games on your desktop PC or laptop without using a keyboard and mouse? So in this article, I will guide you Step by step through three different methods of how to connect an Xbox controller to a PC. The 1st is using the cable and it’s simple, the 2nd is Bluetooth connection which is more complicated and has some downsides. And the last which is the best option is using a Microsoft Xbox adapter. I will Guide You on how to connect your Xbox controller using all three methods on both Windows 10 and 11. So Let’s walk through the steps to connect your Xbox controller to your PC seamlessly.
Connecting Your Xbox Controller to PC Like a Pro
1. How to Connect Xbox Controller to PC Wired
First of all, it’s important to update Windows and the controller before going for a wireless connection. The controller can be updated through the X box accessories app available at the Windows app store.
For a quick connection, you can use a USB cable to connect your Xbox controller directly to your PC. You just have to be sure that you’re using the right one that can transfer data and not only power. It was a common problem with old Xbox One controllers that had micro USB ports. Most Xbox controllers come with a micro-USB cable.
- If you are using USB-C So Plug USB one end into PC USB ports. And others simply connect the USB-C Xbox controller.
- If it doesn’t respond immediately, then try pressing the Xbox button and there you go.
- your computer instantly recognizes it, you can hear or sound and Windows installs all needed drivers and you’re ready to go. With this method, you can use your headphone Jack on the controller and the microphone on your headphone set: no lagging and no problems and games.
2. How to Connect Xbox controller To PC: Bluetooth Connection
To connect your controller via Bluetooth to the PC, first check to make sure your controller has Bluetooth capability. Early variations do not.
Xbox Controllers are of two types :
Xbox original controllers that are not Bluetooth compatible and Xbox One S controllers that are Bluetooth compatible and if black plastic covering the Xbox logo on the controller, that’s non Bluetooth version whereas newer Xbox Controllers support Bluetooth technology and need built-in Bluetooth connection for laptops and a Bluetooth dongle.
- To connect the controller to the PC, use the Windows search bar search on the word Bluetooth find the Bluetooth and other devices settings menu, and click on it. Make sure the Bluetooth switch is in the on position and then click add device. Then click on Bluetooth. On Windows 10 it’s called Add Bluetooth or Other Device
- On the controller, press the Xbox button. It’ll start a switch on. Then hold the sync button down. That’s at the top of the controller for a few seconds. The light will begin to blink faster on the screen. Your controller should appear on the list single.
You should see the popup notification. Hit connect. After that your Xbox logo becomes solid and you’re done. - If there is no notification, Go to Bluetooth settings. Make sure your Bluetooth is turned on and the Xbox logo is flashing. Then in Windows 10 click on Add Bluetooth and another device. In Windows 11 click add device and then it’s similar for two systems. Go with the first option, Bluetooth. Here in the list, you can see your Xbox Wireless controller, so choose it and that’s it.
3. How to Connect Xbox controller To PC: Using Microsoft Xbox adapter
If you prefer a wireless setup, you’ll need an Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows. It’s very easy to connect the Xbox controller to the PC.
- Plug the Xbox Wireless adapter into the PC or laptop that’s must-have USB Ports.
- Onn Your Xbox controller by Pressing the Xbox button. Once your controller is switched on, hit the sync button on it The light on it will blink slowly.
- Then hold the sync button that’s on top of the controller for a few seconds. The light will blink fast and you should be ready to go. With this adapter, you have a better connection and reduced latency.
Final Verdict:
You can make your gaming world easy by connecting the Xbox controller to the PC. You can play high-graphic or virtual realistic games in your comfort zone without using a keyboard and mouse. Choose your choice from USB, Bluetooth, or a wireless dongle plug and play with Windows, and enjoy gaming. Hold your controller in your hand, connect it to your PC, and let the magic of gaming unfold.
Frequently Ask Questions?
1. Why is my Xbox controller not working on my PC wired?
If your Xbox controller is not working on your PC when connected with a wired connection, then try these steps first check the USB cable and ports to ensure that the USB cable you are using is fully functional, and then restart your PC, make sure that your Xbox controller drivers are up to date, Ensure that your Xbox controller is compatible with your PC. Most recent Xbox controllers should work with Windows, but if you have an older model, it might not be fully compatible. If you have another compatible USB cable, try using it to see if the issue persists. and update your window with the latest update it can solve your problem.
2. Where is Xbox controller pair button?
The pair button on Xbox controllers depends on the specific model you have. if you have an Xbox One Controller For the original Xbox One controller without Bluetooth, the pairing button is located on the top of the controller, near the micro-USB port if you have an Xbox Series X/S Controller On this controller, the pair button is located on the top of the controller, just above the USB-C port. and you have an Xbox 360 Controller that has a wireless sync button located on the front of the controller, near the middle. If you have a wired Xbox 360 controller, there’s no need for a pair button, as the connection is made through the USB cable. Press and hold the pair button, then search for the controller in the device settings to pair.
3. How do I manually connect my Xbox controller?
For Xbox One or Series X/S controllers, just power it up, long-press the Xbox button until it is on it, and then hold down the pairing button until you see that flashy Xbox button. Head to your console or PC’s Bluetooth settings, find the controller and pair away. For the Xbox 360 controller, either plug it in with a USB cable or hit that sync button for wireless magic. Make sure to let any needed drivers install, and double-check your game settings to ensure your controller is recognized.
