How to connect your Xbox controller to a PC

If you like gaming on your Windows computer and prefer to use an Xbox controller, you’re not alone. Fortunately, you can easily connect an Xbox controller to a PC. Enjoy the functionality of your favorite controller when you connect your Xbox controller to your PC with one of these easy methods.

Connect your Xbox controller to your PC

If you’re wondering how to connect your Xbox controller to your laptop, we have you covered. It’s easy, and you have options. Here are three ways to get gaming with the computer and Xbox controller combo you like best.

Bluetooth

If you want to use Bluetooth to connect your Xbox controller to your PC, your computer will need to have the Windows 10 Anniversary Update or later. It’s easy to figure out which version of Windows you are running. If you haven’t yet, upgrade to Windows 11 for the best gaming experience on Windows. 

To pair your Xbox controller using Bluetooth, follow these steps: 

1. Press Xbox on the controller to turn the controller on. 
2. Hold Pair for three seconds. The Xbox button will light up and start flashing. 
3. Select Start on your computer. The Start button looks like four squares.
4. With the Start panel open in Windows 11, select Settings > Bluetooth & devices.
5. Toggle the Bluetooth option on. 
6. Select Add device to find and add your Xbox controller.  

Xbox Wireless

If Xbox Wireless is your preferred connection method, follow these steps: 

1. Hold down Xbox on your controller for three seconds until the Xbox button starts flashing. 
2. Press and hold the Pair button on your controller. When the Xbox button starts flashing more quickly, that means the controller is searching for your PC.
3. Select Start on your computer.
4. Select Settings > Bluetooth & devices. 
5. Select Add device.
6. Find your controller by selecting Everything else.
7. From here, choose either Xbox Wireless Controller or Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. When your controller is connected to your PC, the Xbox button will stay lit.

USB

To use a mini-USB to connect your Xbox controller to your PC, here’s what you’ll need to do:

1. Plug one end of a mini-USB into the port on your controller.
2. Plug the other end of the cord into your PC’s mini-USB port. 
3. If your computer still isn’t connecting to your controller, press the Xbox button.

Depending on your computer setup, you may want to consider getting a longer mini-USB cable for more comfortable playing.

Why won’t my Xbox controller connect to my PC?

If your device won’t connect, here are a few actions you can take to fix the issue:

• Make sure your device is fully charged. If the batteries in your controller are low or dead, you’ll need to replace or recharge them. 
• Ensure your computer’s Bluetooth is turned on. Even if your controller is turned on, it won’t be able to connect to your computer if Bluetooth is turned off. 
• Make sure your computer software is compatible with your controller. To use Bluetooth to connect your Xbox controller to a PC, your computer must be running the Windows 10 Anniversary Update or later. 
• Keep your controller close to your computer. Wireless controllers have a connectivity range of about 19-28 ft. 
• Update your controller. Keep your controller up to date to make sure its compatibility and capabilities are fully optimized.

Windows 11 Gaming

If you want to connect your Xbox controller to your Windows 11 PC, get ready for the best gaming experience yet with Xbox Game Pass for a small monthly fee. From Minecraft and FIFA 22 video game to Monster Hunter Rise and Forza Horizon 5, there’s no shortage of ways to play. 

Connecting your Xbox controller to a PC is fast and easy. Now that you know how to pair your Xbox controller with your PC, let the games begin!