Learn how to connect your Xbox controller to your PC easily with this step-by-step guide. Enhance your gaming experience today.Many people prefer to play on PC using Xbox controllers. This is especially convenient when it comes to games ported to PC from consoles, as they were originally designed for gamepads. In this article, we will tell you how to connect an Xbox One joystick to a computer.
Connecting an Xbox Controller to a Computer.
The process of connecting an Xbox One controller to a PC is simple. And the user has several options. Here are three ways to connect an Xbox controller to a PC.
How to Connect Xbox Controller to PC via Bluetooth
To connect an Xbox controller to your PC via Bluetooth, your computer must be running Windows 10 with the Anniversary Update or later. The best option is the latest Windows 11 with all updates installed. Microsoft recommends using it.
Below are the steps to connect via Bluetooth:
- Press the Xbox button on your Xbox One controller to turn it on;
- Hold the pairing button on top for 3 seconds – the Xbox button will light up and start flashing;
- Then on your computer, select Start (the button with four squares at the bottom) and click on Settings.
- Next, go to the Bluetooth section and “Bluetooth and devices”.
- Turn on Bluetooth (slider to the right).
- Click Add a device to find and connect your Xbox controller.
There is also a slightly different way via Xbox Wireless. To connect:
- Press the Xbox button on your controller to turn it on;
- Hold the pairing button for 3 seconds – it will start flashing;
- On your computer, click Start (the button with four squares at the bottom) and then “Settings.”
- Next, go to the Bluetooth section and “Bluetooth and devices”.
- Turn on Bluetooth (slider to the right).
- Click “Add device”.
- And after “Everything else”.
Find the Xbox Wireless Controller or Xbox Elite Wireless Controller in the list. Once connected, the Xbox button will be lit continuously.
You can also connect via Bluetooth via the bottom toolbar. To do this:
- Click on the Wi-Fi icon on the right;
- Next, click on the Bluetooth icon.
- In the drop-down list, click on Xbox Wireless Controller.
- The “Not connected” status should change to “Connected”.
How to Connect Xbox Controller to PC via USB
- Connect the other end to the USB port on your PC;
- If the connection is not established automatically, press the Xbox button on the controller.
It is recommended to use a long cable so that you can sit far from the screen.
Why Xbox Controller Won’t Connect to PC
If problems arise, here is what the user can do:
- Make sure your Xbox controller is charged. If the batteries are low, replace them or charge them (if available);
- Check if Bluetooth is enabled on your PC. The controller will not connect if Bluetooth is disabled.
- Make sure your version of Windows is compatible with the Xbox One controller. Bluetooth requires at least the Windows 10 Anniversary Update;
- Keep the controller close to your PC – the range when connected via Bluetooth is about 6-8 meters;
- Update your controller firmware to ensure full compatibility and optimal performance.