You can connect an Xbox controller to a PC using three main methods: wired USB connection, Bluetooth, or the Xbox Wireless Adapter. Here's how to do each:
1. Wired USB Connection
- Use a USB cable compatible with your controller (USB-C for Xbox Series X/S controllers or micro-USB for older Xbox One controllers).
- Plug one end of the cable into the controller and the other into a USB port on your PC.
- The controller should automatically be recognized and ready to use
2. Bluetooth Connection
- Ensure your PC has Bluetooth and it is enabled (Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices).
- Turn on the Xbox controller by pressing the Xbox button.
- Press and hold the pairing button on the controller (small button on top) for about 3 seconds until the Xbox logo starts flashing rapidly.
- On your PC, go to Bluetooth settings and select "Add Bluetooth or other device," then choose Bluetooth.
- Select "Xbox Wireless Controller" from the list to pair.
- Once connected, the Xbox button light will stay solid
3. Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows
- Plug the Xbox Wireless Adapter into a USB port on your PC.
- Turn on the controller by pressing the Xbox button.
- Press the pairing button on the adapter, then press the pairing button on the controller.
- When the Xbox button light stays on continuously, the connection is established.
- This method provides a wireless connection with better performance than Bluetooth but requires purchasing the adapter
Each method will automatically install necessary drivers on Windows 10 or 11. Choose wired for simplicity and no battery worries, Bluetooth for convenience if your PC supports it, or the Xbox Wireless Adapter for the best wireless experience. Once connected, your Xbox controller will work with most PC games that support controllers. Note that Bluetooth connections may not support headset audio through the controller
