The Xbox controller can be used to play PC games, which provides some gamers with a more immersive experience. However, there are times when the device will not connect to your computer.
This problem can be very irritating, and you may be tempted to give up, but don’t give up; there are a few simple solutions. Your controller could be back to normal in no time if you use these tricks. Continue reading for more information.
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Bluetooth Connection to Xbox Controller Failed
The newer Xbox One controller model can be paired with any computer that supports Bluetooth. As a result, this section will not apply to older controller models that use a proprietary standard and necessitate the use of a dongle.
There are a few neat fixes you can try if you own a standard Bluetooth Xbox One controller.
Bluetooth is also used by the Xbox Series X|S controllers. The Xbox One controller charges and syncs to devices using Micro USB cables, whereas the Series X|S controllers require a USB-C wire.
Turn Bluetooth on and off.
Sometimes the controller will not appear in your list of Bluetooth devices. One option is to simply disable and then re-enable Bluetooth connectivity. That can sometimes be enough to solve a problem.
If that doesn’t work, remove the controller’s batteries and make sure it’s not connected via a USB cable. If this solution works, you can resume using the controller to play your games.
Batteries for Switching
The batteries you use with your controller can also have an impact on connectivity, particularly if they are not disposable. Because they are not an official product, third-party rechargeable packs may also malfunction. If the battery swap works, stick with it and stop using the old ones.
Reboot the Controller.
Restarting a device can sometimes solve all problems, and it can also work with an Xbox controller. To turn off the Xbox, press and hold the power button for several seconds. Hopefully, your computer will recognize it once it is operational again.
Firmware Upgrade
For USB or Bluetooth accessories to work with anything, whether it’s a PC or a video game console, the proper firmware is required. Controller firmware may be out of date, preventing compatibility with the most recent version of Windows. Fortunately, there is a step you can take to resolve this issue.
Connecting your Xbox controller to an Xbox One console via USB cable or wirelessly is the simplest solution. This will install the most recent firmware.
Those who only have the controller can still use Windows 10 computers and later to update the firmware.
- Get and install the Xbox Accessories.
- Use a USB cable to connect the controller to your PC.
- Launch the Xbox Accessories application.
- Reinstall your controller.
- When the update is finished, close the software.
These steps are simple enough to try, and the controller should now communicate with your PC. If your Windows PC has recently received an update, you should check to see if it affects Xbox controller usage.
Improve the Signal
The Xbox controller will work even if you are further away from the computer, but having too many active Bluetooth devices or other objects in the vicinity may cause the signal to be disrupted. As a result, your PC may fail to recognize your controller, especially if there is some distance and interference.
The solution to too much interference is to reduce the number of Bluetooth devices that are currently active. It would also help if there were as few objects as possible between the controller and the PC. The connection will be stronger as a result, with less chance of disruption.
Attempt a Comprehensive Troubleshooting
Windows’ troubleshooter is a useful tool for identifying problems. The steps for Windows 11 are as follows.
- Navigate to the Windows Start Menu.
- Navigate to the Settings menu.
- Select “System.”
- Look for and select “Troubleshoot Settings,” followed by “Additional Troubleshooters.”
- Click “Run” next to “Hardware And Devices.”
On Windows 10, the steps are slightly different.
- Navigate to the Start Menu.
- Go to the Settings menu.
- Click on “Update & Security.”
- Navigate to “Troubleshoot Settings.”
- Select “Other Troubleshooters.”
Choose “Hardware And Devices.” - Select “Run Troubleshooter.”
Because they are on the same page, you can use the same steps for the Bluetooth troubleshooter. If you select it, both will allow you to troubleshoot the Xbox controller.
If you can identify the problem, it will be much easier to fix it.
Xbox Controller Won’t Connect Directly to PC
Even with the most recent controllers, some users prefer a wired connection. The main benefit is that gamers will not have to worry about running out of battery power in wired mode. However, the controller does not always connect to the PC.
Incorrect USB Cable
A charge-only line and sync cables are the two main types of USB cables. Charge-only cables provide power to the Xbox controller but do not allow it to transfer data. As a result, it is not advised to use them for gaming.
You may have used a charge-only cable with your controller by mistake. Instead, you can swap out the cable in seconds, and the controller should now work with your PC.
Sync cables are thicker and feature a unique symbol on the USB-A end. It is made up of a dot and a straight line with an arrow. The line has two branches, one of which ends in a circle and the other in a square.
If your cable bears the USB symbol, it is compatible with your Xbox controller.
Cable Break
A faulty cable will also prevent the controller from communicating with a computer. The only solution is to replace it with a functional wire. If this does not work, your controller may be defective, or there may be other problems with Windows.
Driver Error: Xbox Controller Won’t Connect to PC
A driver error occurs when a computer recognizes the Xbox controller but the drivers are corrupted. As a result, a pop-up window with the message “driver error” appears, and the controller stops working. Fortunately, the solution is easy to implement.
- Right-click anywhere on the Windows home screen that is empty.
- Choose “Device Manager.”
- Search for an Xbox One controller.
- Select “Uninstall Device.”
- When this process is finished, click “Scan For Hardware Changes.”
- Windows should install the default driver and restart your controller.
This problem is more likely to affect those who have been using the controller for a while but have recently experienced a failure to connect.
Windows should be updated.
Older versions of Windows may not be compatible with the most recent Xbox controllers, so keeping your PC up to date is critical for the best experience.
- In the bottom-left corner, click the Windows button.
- Click on the gear icon.
- Select “Update and Security.”
- On the right, select “Check For Updates.”
- Let Windows update and restart.
If this solution works, you will be able to play your games on PC with the controller once more.
Eventually, all electronics will fail. Sometimes the day comes too soon, but if none of these solutions work, you’ll most likely need to purchase a new Xbox One controller.
A Simple Solution
In most cases, connecting an Xbox controller to a PC is a simple matter of changing cables or replacing batteries. Xbox controllers are fully supported by Windows, and they usually work well for the majority of users. Nonetheless, you never know when these repair tips will be useful.
Which of these methods are you unfamiliar with? Do you have any other suggestions? Please share your thoughts in the comments section below.