How to connect your Xbox controller to your PC

Through cloud gaming and services like Xbox® Play Anywhere, you can take your game wherever you go. Play your next Fortnite match on the Chromebook™ in the next room, the laptop upstairs, or even the old computer at your grandma’s house. All you need to do is connect your Xbox controller—and we'll show you how.

Asurion Experts have all your tech care needs covered. Here’s our guide to connecting your Xbox controller to your PC.

How to connect your Xbox controller to your PC with a USB cable

To connect your controller with a USB cable, plug the charging cable—either a micro-USB for the Xbox One or a USB-C cable for the Xbox Series S/X, depending on your controller—into the USB port on the top of the controller and plug the other end into your PC. After connecting, press the Xbox button (the large Xbox icon) on your controller to turn it on.

How to connect your Xbox controller to PC via Bluetooth

To connect with a wireless connection, you’ll need a PC that supports Bluetooth technology, a computer running the Windows™ 10 Anniversary Update or later, and a Bluetooth-compatible controller. Keep in mind, your controller attachments and accessories (like headsets and chatpads) won’t work when connected.

To pair an Xbox wireless controller to your PC via Bluetooth:

1. Press the Xbox button to turn on your controller.
2. Press and hold the Pair button on your controller for about three seconds. The Xbox button will start flashing rapidly when in pairing mode.
3. On your computer, click the Start button. Then, select Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on at the top of this page.
4. Select Add Bluetooth or other device > Bluetooth.
5. When your PC finds your controller, select Xbox controller > Done.

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How to connect your Xbox controller to your PC wirelessly

Some computers come with Xbox Wireless fully integrated. With these PCs, you can connect without an adapter. Here’s how:

1. Press the Xbox button to turn on your controller.
2. Press and hold the Pair button on your controller for about three seconds. The Xbox button will start flashing rapidly when in pairing mode.
3. On your computer, click the Start button. Then, select Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
4. Select Add Bluetooth or other device > Everything else. When your PC finds your controller, select the Xbox controller from the list.

If you aren’t lucky enough to have a computer that has Xbox Wireless built-in, you can still get in on the wireless action. You can use these steps to connect your controller to your PC using the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows™:

1. Plug the Xbox Wireless Adapter into your PC.
2. Press the Xbox button to turn on your controller.
3. Press and hold the Pair button on the Xbox Wireless Adapter. Then, press and hold the Pair button on your controller for about three seconds. The Xbox button will start flashing rapidly when in pairing mode. When both are connected, the Xbox button on the controller will stay lit.

FAQ

How can I tell if my Xbox controller supports Bluetooth?

The easiest way to tell if your Xbox controller has Bluetooth is by looking at the plastic around the Xbox button. If it's part of the same smooth front face as the rest of the controller, it supports Bluetooth. If it’s surrounded by a separate plastic piece that also houses the bumpers, then it likely doesn’t.

What should I do if my Xbox controller isn't connecting to my PC?

If your controller isn’t connecting, start by checking the basics—make sure the cable is securely plugged in or that Bluetooth is turned on and pairing mode is activated. Restarting your PC and controller can also help. If it still won’t connect, check for software updates on your PC and use the Xbox Accessories app to see if the controller needs a firmware update.

Can I use multiple Xbox controllers on my PC simultaneously?

Yes, you can connect more than one Xbox controller to your PC. If you're going wired, just plug each controller into a USB port. If you're using Bluetooth, you can pair up to eight controllers depending on your PC's hardware settings—just keep in mind that performance can vary with more wireless connections.

Do I need additional software to use my Xbox controller on a PC?

Most of the time, no extra software is needed. Windows 10 and 11 natively support Xbox controllers. However, if you want to customize button mapping or check for firmware updates, the free Xbox Accessories app from the Microsoft Store is worth installing.

Are all PC games compatible with Xbox controllers?

Not every PC game supports controllers, but many do—especially those available through platforms like Steam or the Microsoft Store. For games that don’t offer built-in controller support, you might need to tweak settings or use software like Steam’s controller configuration tools to get everything working the way you want.