How to use an Xbox One controller on PC

By Wes Fenlon 06 November 2020

Pro tips for getting the most out of Microsoft’s latest controller via USB, wireless adapter, or Bluetooth.

If you want to use a controller on PC, you just can’t beat the convenience of the Xbox gamepad. If you want a dead simple plug-and-play experience, the Xbox controller is the obvious choice, and it’s definitely among the best PC controllers, anyway—Microsoft revised its controller after the launch of the Xbox One, making its bumpers feel better and adding Bluetooth connectivity.

Thanks to the built-in Windows driver, you won’t need any special software for your PC (and most games) to immediately recognize your pad. So what’s the point of a guide at all?

Well, there are a couple ways to hook up the Xbox One controller wirelessly, and a few things you should know about the different iterations of the controller and what how exactly they’ll work with your PC.

Setup

What you need

Hardware

• Xbox One controller
• Xbox Wireless adapter for Windows (optional, for wireless)
• Bluetooth adapter (optional, for wireless)
• Micro-USB cable (optional, for wired)
• AA batteries

Software

• Xbox Accessories app (optional, for software updates)

Wired

Using your Xbox One controller

Using a wired Xbox One controller on PC is as simple as it gets, if you don’t mind a tether. Plug your micro-USB cable into the controller and into a USB port on your PC. Windows should install the necessary driver, the Xbox Guide button in the center will light up, and you’re in business!

Windows version note: On Windows 10, you can connect up to eight Xbox One controllers, while on Windows 7 and Windows 8, you can connect up to four. On Windows 10, you can only have four controllers connected if you also connect an Xbox chat headset to the controller or two with the stereo headset. Audio throughput isn’t supported on Windows 7 and 8.

Troubleshooting note: the vast majority of micro-USB cables carry data no problem, but some manufacturers cheap out and produce cables that can only charge. If you’re using a random USB cable from a drawer and having trouble, try a different one.

Wireless adapter

How to connect with the Xbox Wireless adapter for Windows

This process is nearly as simple as connecting with a USB cable, and is basically identical to connecting the controller to an Xbox console.

2. Turn on your Xbox One controller by holding the Guide button in the center. Now press the the small sync button on the top of the controller until the Guide button begins flashing.

3. Press the small sync button located on the side of the Xbox Wireless adapter for a couple seconds. Watch the flashing Guide button on the controller. When it goes solid, you’re connected!

Bluetooth

How to connect the Xbox One controller via Bluetooth

Here’s where things get a little complicated. Certain models of the Xbox One controller can connect to any old PC Bluetooth adapter. Others can’t. Here’s how to tell if your Xbox One controller has built-in Bluetooth:

The shape of the plastic molding at the top of the controller is your clue. The first iteration of the Xbox One controller does not support Bluetooth and has a few other annoyances. Its bumpers have a narrower click range, making them less comfortable depending on where you position your fingers.

The redesigned controller launched with the Xbox One S console has a smaller plastic molding along the top. It also adds a 3.5mm headphone jack to the bottom of the controller, another easy giveaway. On top of that headphone jack, it also has built-in Bluetooth!

1. Press the Windows key and type «Bluetooth» until search brings up the Bluetooth & other devices settings option. Click it to open that settings page. Here you should see your Bluetooth is set to «On» and is discoverable.

Windows version note: Using the Xbox One controller via Bluetooth only works on Windows 10 with the Anniversary update applied.

2. Turn on the Xbox One controller by holding the Guide button. Press the sync button on top of the controller until the Guide light begins to flash rapidly.

3. In the Bluetooth settings menu, click «Add Bluetooth or other device» and then select Bluetooth from the menu options. After a few seconds of searching, your Xbox controller should show up. Click it to pair. And you’re wirelessly connected!

Headset note: Only one Xbox One controller can be paired via Bluetooth. Headsets not supported.

Updating

How to update and configure the Xbox One controller

It’s not just games that have updates these days. So do controllers! While it’s not necessary to update your Xbox controller, if you want to, the process is pretty simple.

1. Open the Windows Store and search for Xbox Accessories. Install the app and open it.

Windows version note: The app only works with Windows 10 with the Anniversary update applied.

2. Plug your Xbox One controller in with a micro-USB cable.

3. Click the «More options» button to check if there’s a firmware update for your controller.

Instead of configuring controller options on a game-by-game basis, you can also use the Accessories app to change button mapping, swap and invert sticks and triggers, and enable or disable rumble.

If you have an Xbox One Elite controller, you can also use the Accessories app to configure options like trigger and analog stick sensitivity. You can save different configurations to the two profiles the controller supports.

How to connect your Xbox One controller to a PC in 3 different ways

• You can connect an Xbox One controller to your PC via USB, Bluetooth, or an Xbox Wireless Adapter.
• To connect an Xbox One controller to your PC via Bluetooth or Wireless Adapter, you’ll need to use Windows’ «Bluetooth & other devices» menu.
• Visit Business Insider’s Tech Reference library for more stories.

PC gaming is one of the more multidimensional consoles when it comes to offering gamers multiple ways to enjoy their gaming experience. PC gamers can also enjoy a large pool of digital games available from the digital distribution platform Steam, making PC gaming exceptionally diverse.

In addition to using a default mouse and keyboard, gamers can also use a slew of various controllers, including Microsoft’s Xbox One controller.

There are currently three ways you can pair your Xbox One controller to your Windows 10 PC: with a USB cable, through Bluetooth , or using a Wireless Adapter.

How to connect your Xbox One controller to a PC via USB

1. Grab your Xbox One wireless controller and connect a micro-USB charging cable into the top of the device.

2. Take the other end of the USB charging cable and plug it into your Windows 10 PC or laptop.

Your PC should configure the controller automatically.

You can connect up to eight Xbox Wireless Controllers simultaneously with USB charging cables. If you have Xbox Chat Headsets attached, you can only connect up to four controllers at a time. You can only connect two controllers at a time if the controllers use Stereo Headsets.

How to connect your Xbox One controller to a PC via Bluetooth

1. Power on your Xbox One wireless controller.

2. Press and hold the Bind and Xbox buttons on your controller for three seconds, and wait until the controller’s backlight or Xbox button begins to rapidly flicker.

3. Power up your PC, then head to «Settings,» then click «Devices» then «Bluetooth & other devices.»

4. Enable Bluetooth.

5. Select «Add Bluetooth or other device, and then either «Bluetooth» or «Everything Else.» After that’s clicked, your computer will begin searching for nearby Bluetooth devices currently on.

6. Select «Xbox Wireless Controller» or «Xbox Elite Wireless Controller» if you’re using an Elite controller. Windows will configure your controller so you can use it.

How to connect your Xbox One controller to a PC via Xbox Wireless Adapter

The Xbox Wireless Adapter is a small device that can help your Xbox controller connect to a PC.

1. Boot up your Windows 10 PC and plug the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows into your computer.

2. In the same «Bluetooth & other devices» menu we used in the previous method, look for the Adapter to appear under «Other devices.» Once it appears, this means it’s finished installing itself.

3. When the adapter is ready, turn on your Xbox controller by holding down the Xbox button. Once it’s on, angle it toward the Adapter and press and hold the Bind button.

4. Press and hold the Bind button on the Xbox Wireless Adapter. A small light will flash for several seconds.

5. Both your controller and Adapter should flash rapidly. Once they stop, it means they’ve found each other and are connected.

Related coverage from Tech Reference:

How to connect an Xbox One or Xbox 360 controller to your Mac computer

How to get free games on your Xbox One through Xbox Live and Game Pass

How to connect a Xbox One controller to your Xbox One console, with or without a USB cable

How to delete games on your Xbox One, and reinstall them later

How to appear offline on an Xbox One, and adjust who can see your online status

Insider Inc. receives a commission when you buy through our links.

Best Xbox One Controller 2021

Source: Windows Central

Best Xbox One Controller Windows Central 2021

To play games on the Xbox One, you’ll need a controller, and it’s worth having the right controller. Microsoft’s Xbox Elite Series 2 wireless controller is the best gamepad for the company’s console. You can customize it to your needs, replace various components, and even remap buttons through an app for console and PC.

Best overall — Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

Source: Windows Central

The Xbox One controller is incredibly comfortable to use for long periods. It’s sturdy, and it generally feels great to hold and use. However, like all things, it has a lifespan, and more serious gamers can wear them out fairly quickly.

Then comes the Elite Series 2, the latest incarnation of Microsoft’s professional-grade controller. It essentially keeps the same great design but improves just about everything else. The sticks are removable and more durable, as is the D-pad. There are paddles on the rear which can be mapped to any button on the controller using the companion app for Xbox One and Windows 10. The whole thing is covered with a soft-touch finish. There are hand-grips, and there are trigger stops.

Some may look at the price tag and declare that no controller is worth that much, and that’s fine. To the people willing to pay top dollar, the Elite Controller is the very best around. It’ll last many years longer than a regular controller and is packed with serious features. The Series 2 also adds Bluetooth into the mix for easy wireless pairing with your Windows 10 PC.

• Excellent design
• Great build quality
• Custom button and paddle mapping
• Changeable sticks and D-Pad
• Bluetooth

• Expensive
• Heavier than a standard controller

Best overall

Xbox Elite Controller Series 2

Likely the best controller ever made.

The Xbox Elite Controller 2 is the best Xbox controller ever made.

Best Bluetooth — New Xbox Wireless Controller

Source: Matt Brown | Windows Central

You honestly can’t go wrong with the controller Microsoft designed itself. Since the Xbox One S debut, Microsoft included Bluetooth capabilities on the official controller, a feature that has never been utilized properly on the console. It does open up to using the controller with a PC and an Xbox console, though. Especially useful if you’re a Game Pass Ultimate subscriber with access to all the included PC games.

The new Xbox Wireless Controller controller design is a continuation of arguably the best there has ever been on any platform, with its offset analog sticks and perfect size leading to many, many hours of comfortable gaming. The latest update adds a dedicated share button, which is more convenient for snapping clips and screenshots than the older controller’s method and works just the same with the Xbox One as on the new Xbox Series X.

It works seamlessly with the PC, too, either wired over USB-C or over Bluetooth. If you’re not a fan of dumping batteries inside it, there’s also a play and charge kit available that transforms it into a rechargeable controller.

Xbox Controllers

Showing 1 — 15 of 15 results

HORIPAD Pro for Xbox Series X|S

Fully programmable and adjustable, this Microsoft-licensed wired controller delivers next-level gaming to your Xbox Series X|S. Fine-tune everything from trigger and stick sensitivity to vibration feedback and button functions and keep it personalised with up to four custom profiles. Plus, thanks to convenient on-board audio and mic controls, it’s easy to stay immersed in the game.

Xbox Wireless Controller

Experience the new Xbox Wireless Controller, designed for enhanced comfort during gameplay. Available in Robot White, Carbon Black, Shock Blue and Pulse Red.

Razer Kishi for Android (Xbox)

Make your move with the Razer Kishi for Android featuring a flexible design that allows for seamless compatibility with most Android devices. Simply stretch and clamp on to your device to provide a secure hold for a variety of phones and tablets. By connecting directly to your device, the Razer Kishi allows for latency-free game play, eliminating any potential lag. Keep your device charged all day long with the controller’s built-in Type C charging port and enjoy cloud compatibility so that you can game from anywhere.

PowerA FUSION Wired FightPad Controller for Xbox One

Gain retro-style control for fighting games with the 6-button layout and floating D-pad design of the FUSION FightPad.

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

The all-new Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 features over 30 new ways to play like a pro, including adjustable-tension thumbsticks, new interchangeable components, up to 40 hours of rechargeable battery life and limitless customisation with the Xbox Accessories app on Xbox One and Windows 10.*

Xbox Wireless Controller – Grey/Blue

Experience the enhanced comfort and feel of the Xbox Wireless Controller, featuring a dark grey design with light grey and blue accents, and a textured grip. Includes Bluetooth® technology for gaming on Windows 10 PCs, laptops and mobile devices.*

Xbox Adaptive Controller

Create a custom controller experience that makes gaming more accessible. Connect external switches, buttons, mounts and joysticks (required for gameplay; sold separately).

Venom Black Twin Docking Station for Xbox One

Keep two controllers fully charged and ready for action with this smart docking station.

PDP Talon Media Remote

Easily control your TV and Xbox One setup with this officially licensed media remote.

Venom XCloud Travel Kit

Chase the win whenever, wherever with this Xbox gaming kit featuring a fully adjustable phone clamp, long-lasting battery pack and convenient carrying case

Venom Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller Customisation Kit – Purple

Enhance your Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller even further with the colourful customised pieces included in this kit. All 13 pieces come in a robust premium carrying case for easy organisation.

Venom Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller Customisation Kit – Gold

Enhance your Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller even further with the colourful customised pieces included in this kit. All 13 pieces come in a robust premium carrying case for easy organisation.

Venom Gen 2 Twin Rechargeable Battery Pack For Xbox Series X/S

Ensure that up to two controllers for Xbox Series X and S are topped off and ready to go with this rechargeable battery pack. An included dual charging cable lets you power up while you play.

Venom Gen 2 Twin Docking Station For Xbox Series X/S

Maintain a full charge for two Xbox Series X and S controllers with this powerful twin docking station. A low-profile design saves space around your console set-up.

Razer Wolverine V2 Wired Gaming Controller for Xbox Series X

Blaze through your favourite gaming titles with the ultimate precision of this hyper-responsive and customisable wired Xbox Series X controller.

Scuf Gaming Elite Series 2 Thumbsticks

Strike with the advanced precision and comfort of these textured gaming thumbsticks, designed for total movement control.

Venom Gen 2 Twin Rechargeable Battery Pack For Xbox Series X/S

Ensure that up to two controllers for Xbox Series X and S are topped off and ready to go with this rechargeable battery pack. An included dual charging cable lets you power up while you play.

PowerA MOGA Mobile Gaming Clip 2 for Xbox Controllers

Gain the edge for mobile Xbox Game Streaming with this articulating grip that secures your phone to an Xbox Wireless Controller.

Thrustmaster ESWAP Pro Controller for Xbox and PC

Customise your arsenal with the next-gen-ready and officially licensed ESWAP gaming controller featuring newly innovated add-ons for competition domination.

PowerA Xbox Series X Wired Controller

Connect to your Xbox Series X & S and Xbox One on a new level with this ergonomic wired controller.

Scuf Gaming Elite Series 2 Paddles

Make your next move with the advanced support of these ergonomic gaming paddles, compatible with Series 1 and 2 Elite Controllers for Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One.

Xbox Wireless Controller – Arctic Camo Special Edition

Equip yourself with the Xbox Wireless Controller – Arctic Camo Special Edition, featuring a rugged white, grey and translucent camouflage pattern.

Hori USA Inc Solo Charging Station for Xbox

Make dead batteries a thing of the past with this officially licensed charging station packed with everything you need to keep your Xbox controller ready for action.

PowerA Fusion Pro Wired Controller for Xbox One

A fully customisable layout and comfortable grip come together in this officially licensed controller that lets you game exactly the way you want.

Xbox Wireless Controller – Gears 5 Kait Diaz Limited Edition

Equip yourself with the Xbox Wireless Controller – Kait Diaz Limited Edition, featuring a snow-weathered design inspired by Kait’s armour.

Xbox Wireless Controller – Grey/Green

Experience the enhanced Xbox One Wireless Controller — Grey/Green, featuring a light grey design with green accents, and textured grip. Includes Bluetooth® technology for gaming on Windows 10 PCs, laptops and mobile devices.*

Xbox Wireless Controller – Phantom White Special Edition

Equip yourself with the Xbox Wireless Controller – Phantom White Special Edition, featuring a translucent design that fades to white and a textured grip. Includes Bluetooth® technology for gaming on Windows 10 PCs, laptops and mobile devices.*

Xbox Controller and Wireless Adapter for Windows

Experience the enhanced precision and comfort of the newly streamlined black Xbox controller on your PC.* The new and improved adapter features a 66% smaller design, wireless stereo sound support and the ability to connect up to eight controllers at once.

Xbox One Play & Charge Kit

Complete with a charging cable and rechargeable battery pack, the Xbox One Play and Charge Kit is all you need to juice up your Xbox One wireless controller—even in the midst of battle.

Razer Atrox Arcade Stick for Xbox One

Designed to obliterate the competition, this fully customisable arcade stick for Xbox One features tournament-grade hardware and an authentic arcade layout.

Venom White Twin Docking Station for Xbox One

Keep two controllers fully charged and ready for action with this smart docking station.

Venom Xbox One Twin Battery Pack

Make dead controllers a thing of the past with this innovative battery pack duo that charges while you play.

Razer Turret for Xbox One

Meet the world’s first wireless keyboard and mouse designed for Xbox One and Windows PCs. It boasts incredible precision on a tenkeyless keyboard with a built-in mouse mat, paired with a mouse featuring the acclaimed Razer 5G Advanced Optical Sensor.

Venom Gen 2 Twin Docking Station For Xbox Series X/S

Maintain a full charge for two Xbox Series X and S controllers with this powerful twin docking station. A low-profile design saves space around your console set-up.

HORI Dual Charging Station

Effortlessly power up to two controllers at once with this sleek and convenient charger designed for the Xbox Series X and S.