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FIX: Xbox One wireless controller not connecting to PC
Connect your Xbox One controller to PC with ease
7 min. read
Updated onOctober 4, 2023
updated onOctober 4, 2023
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Key notes
The Xbox One controller can be used to play games on the PC. Using a controller on a PC can give you a whole new way to experience your games. In this article, we will discuss issues that are related to the wireless controller and its adapter. If you are having trouble with your Xbox One wireless controller not connecting to PC, then the below fixes will help you.
But first, to ensure that your controller is working properly, we will show instructions on how to properly connect an Xbox One wireless controller to your Windows 10 PC.
How to connect your Xbox One wireless controller to PC
There are two types of controllers that do not use a USB cable to connect to a PC. One type is called a wireless controller while the other type uses Bluetooth to make a connection. Below are instructions on how to set up both your wireless controllers and Bluetooth controllers.
Xbox One controller not connecting to PC
If your Xbox One controller can use aUSB cable, then all you have to do is plug it into the PC. Microsoft has optimized Windows 10 to immediately detect your controller. However, if you are using a wireless controller, then you will need to take a few extra steps. Here’s how you connect a wireless controller to your Windows 10 PC:
It is important to note that you can only connect up to 8 normal controllers at a time to one PC. If your controllers have Xbox Chat headsets then you can only connect 4 controllers at a time. Furthermore, if they have stereo Xbox headsets, then you can only connect two at a time.
Xbox One wireless controller not connecting to PC
It is important to note that only certain controllers have Bluetooth capabilities. If you are unsure whether or not you have a controller with Bluetooth features then you can look at the picture below for reference.
In the picture, the bottom controller has Bluetooth capabilities. Notice how the Xbox button on the bottom is part of the controller’s face. While, the one on top has it’s Xbox button on the top part of the controller. This is how you differentiate between a normal wireless controller and a Bluetooth wireless controller.
It is essential to know that you will need to have the Windows 10 Anniversary Update on your PC in order forBluetooth controllersto work. You also might only be able to connect one Bluetooth controller at a time. Here is how you can connect your Bluetooth controller:
How to fix common Xbox One wireless controller connection issues on Windows 10
Now that you know how to connect your controllers to your Windows 10 PC properly, we will discuss other issues that you may face when your Xbox One controller is not working. The majority of the time, a connectivity issue is caused by the wireless adapter not working properly. So, below is a list of troubleshoots that will help fix adapter issues you may have on your Windows 10 PC.
The wireless adapter didn’t automatically install
If your wireless adapter doesn’t automatically install on your Windows 10 PC, then you will need to first see if your computer is connected to the Internet and has the latest updates. You will also want to try reinstalling your drivers just in case they are not completely installed. To reinstall your drivers take these steps:
Xbox Wireless adapter is not responding anymore
If your Xbox wireless adapter was working before but is not responding anymore, then you may have certain settings improperly configured. For example, there is an option that does not wake your adapter after waking your computer. You can of course make your wireless adapter turn on by default. You can simply try unplugging and re-plugging your adapter back in. But if that is unsuccessful, then you will just need to follow these easy steps:
Binding you controller
A good way to determine whether or not your connectivity issues have to do with your adapter or your controller is to bind your controller to an Xbox One console. If you successfully bind your controller to your console, then your connectivity issues are probably caused by your wireless adapter. Try rebooting your device, and unplugging and plugging it back in. It is also important to note that Wireless adapters typically only have a max range of 6 meters. Therefore, make sure you are close enough to the adapter in order for it to work properly.
Frequent disconnects
This issue can also be remedied by playing closer to your adapter. Furthermore, you will want to ensure that there isn’t any interference from metallic objects. In fact, it is advised not to even put your adapter on a metal object. Your controllers will also need a good line of sight in order for them to operate properly. Perhaps, investing in a USB cable extender will make your connection more stable.
Conclusion
So if your Xbox One wireless controller not working on Windows 10, then you will want to first see if you took the correct steps to connect your controller to your PC. Afterward, if the problem still persists, then you will want to try the troubleshoots mentioned in this article. If you are still unable to connect, then you may need to replace your devices.
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Radu Tyrsina
Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time).
For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web.
Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they’re looking for.
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