Controller Test

How to Connect an Xbox Controller to a PC

There are three ways to connect an Xbox One or Xbox Series X|S controller to a Windows PC: a USB cable, Bluetooth, or the Xbox Wireless Adapter. Here is each one, plus how to confirm it works.

Option 1: USB cable (easiest)

  1. Use a cable that carries data, not a charge-only cable. Xbox Series controllers use USB-C; Xbox One controllers use micro-USB.
  2. Plug the controller into the PC. Windows installs the driver automatically in a few seconds.
  3. Open the controller tester and press any button.

Option 2: Bluetooth

Xbox Series X|S controllers and newer Xbox One controllers (the model that shipped with the Xbox One S and later) support Bluetooth. Older Xbox One controllers do not, and need a cable or the wireless adapter.

  1. Turn the controller on by pressing the Xbox button.
  2. Hold the small pairing button on the top edge, next to the USB port, until the Xbox button flashes quickly.
  3. On the PC open Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Add device > Bluetooth and pick Xbox Wireless Controller.
  4. When the Xbox button stays solid, it is paired. Press a button on the tester page to wake it up in the browser.

Option 3: Xbox Wireless Adapter

Microsoft's Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows plugs into a USB port and connects up to eight controllers without using Bluetooth. Press the button on the adapter, then hold the controller's pairing button until the two link. It usually gives lower latency than Bluetooth and works with older controllers.

Update the controller firmware

Install the free Xbox Accessories app from the Microsoft Store, connect the controller by USB, and install any firmware update it offers. Updates often fix Bluetooth dropouts and detection problems.

Check that it works

Browsers only show a gamepad after it sends input, so press a button on the tester page. Then work through every button, both triggers and both sticks. If it does not appear, see Xbox controller not working on PC.

Ready to check your controller? Open the free Xbox controller tester or run the guided test that walks you through every button.

Frequently asked questions

Can I connect an Xbox controller to a PC without Bluetooth?

Yes. Use a data-capable USB cable or an Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows. Both work without Bluetooth.

Why will my Xbox controller not pair over Bluetooth?

Older Xbox One controllers have no Bluetooth. For newer ones, remove any old pairing from Windows, hold the pairing button until the Xbox logo flashes fast, and add it again.

Do I need a driver for an Xbox controller on Windows?

No. Windows 10 and Windows 11 include the driver and install it automatically when you connect the controller.