How to Connect Xbox Controller to Xbox [A Step-by-Step Guide]

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It can be quite frustrating when your Xbox controller won’t connect to your Xbox. This article explains how to connect Xbox controller to Xbox wirelessly and by cable and customize your controller profiles and troubleshoot problems.

How to Connect Xbox Controller to Xbox (One, Series X/S)

Xbox (a product of Microsoft) is a gaming device that connects to a TV or other media display and offers many options—from buying or renting movies and TV content to streaming on Xbox. You can connect your Xbox controller to your Xbox in two ways: wirelessly or by cable.

  • Wirelessly

Connecting your Xbox controller to an Xbox console wirelessly gives you more freedom to move the controller around. If you want to connect your controller wirelessly, you must have an Xbox Wireless Adapter, which plugs into the USB port on your Xbox, allowing you to connect up to eight controllers at once.

If you wish to know how to connect the controller to Xbox One, follow these simple steps:

  1. Turn on your Xbox Series X/S;
  2. Install AA batteries or rechargeable batteries into the controller;
  3. Press and hold the sync button located on the top of the controller;
  4. Once it starts to flash, click on the pair button on the console (located below the power button);
  5. When they pair, you’re ready to start your game.
  • Cable

It’s not difficult to connect your controller using a micro-USB cable. To connect the Xbox controller via a micro-USB cable, simply follow these steps:

  1. Plug the small end of the micro USB cable into the top of your controller;
  2. Plug the other end of the micro USB cable into a USB port on your Xbox console.

Repeat this process for other controllers you want to connect—up to four at once. (This is just one way to connect one controller to an Xbox One.)

Keep in mind that the controllers—when connected this way—do not require standard alkaline batteries because you’re using the controller as a wired controller.

Xbox has been adapting to the needs of its target market to create games that are acceptable for kids. Xbox is very popular among the young generation. They would spend hours glued to the TV to watch at least one of the popular Xbox games (e.g., Star Wars).

Key Takeaways

  • Xbox (a product of Microsoft) is a gaming device that offers a great gaming experience.
  • Connecting an Xbox One controller wirelessly is quickly done in just a few steps.
  • Using a USB cable is another option to connect your controller to an Xbox.
  • You can connect eight controllers via the wireless option and four using a USB cable.

Customizing Controller Profiles

Xbox has aimed to give its audience more accessible controllers. After syncing your Xbox One controller, you can follow the steps below to customize the controller profiles for a better gaming experience.

  1. From the main menu, open the Settings menu;
  2. Select ‘Devices & connections’;
  3. Select ‘Accessories’;
  4. Select the controller you want to customize;
  5. Select ‘Configure controls’.

You can easily remap your controller and create a unique profile for specific games. You can also change your controller’s button mapping, vibrate, and other settings and create different profiles for various games.

DID YOU KNOW: Once you pair an Xbox One controller to your Xbox, you can turn on the Copilot mode, allowing you to link to another controller and play with someone as if only one controller was in use.

Why Won’t My Xbox Controller Connect to My Xbox?

There are a few reasons why your controller will not connect to your Xbox. Perhaps the console requires an update, or the batteries are critically low. Consider the following reasons why your controller won’t connect to the Xbox.

  • Low Controller Batteries

The most common reason is that the batteries are low. If you’re using AA batteries, make sure they’re fresh and have enough power. If the batteries are dead, the controller won’t turn up.

If you’re still trying to connect the Xbox controller to your Xbox, it’s best to replace the batteries and try again. You can also try plugging your controller into your Xbox using a micro-USB cable, which will bypass any battery issues and enable you to use your controller.

  • Controller Issue

There might be a problem with your controller or Xbox console. Try resetting your controller by pressing the small button on the back of the controller while it’s turned off. Then, you should restart your Xbox console.
You could also use a controller that you know works and see if the issue is with the controller. If these solutions don’t work, you’ll need to contact customer support.

  • Update Required

Your Xbox controller should get updates from time to time. Disconnection issues can occur if you haven’t updated to the latest version. Even if you pair the Xbox controller, the controller still might not work because it would require an update. While your system is on, follow these easy steps to update your controller.

  1. Tap the Xbox button to open;
  2. Go to ‘Profile & system’;
  3. Click on ‘Settings >Devices & connections > Accessories’.

DID YOU KNOW: Look for signs that your controller’s batteries are ending. (The Xbox button will flash from time to time.) Weak batteries most often cause controller sync issues.

Conclusion

Understanding the frustration of your Xbox controller not connecting to your Xbox, this article aims to help explain how to connect an Xbox One controller to your Xbox, how you can customize your controller’s profiles, what causes connectivity problems, and troubleshooting steps.

FAQ

How do I resync my Xbox One controller?

If your controller is not working properly, you may need to resync it. Turn off your Xbox console, unplug the power cord, and plug it back in after 30 seconds. Then, press and hold the pairing button on your controller for three seconds, and that’s it; your controller should be resynced.

What is the pair button on Xbox controller?

The pair button is a small button located on the top of your controller. When you press and hold this button, it will put your controller into ‘pairing mode’, allowing you to connect your controller to your Xbox wirelessly.

How do you connect a second Xbox controller?

To connect a second controller, simply press and hold the pairing button for three seconds, putting your controller into ‘pairing mode’. (You can connect up to four controllers.)

How do I connect my Xbox controller without the sync button?

If you want to know how to connect Xbox controller to Xbox, but your controller doesn’t have a sync button, you can connect it to your Xbox using a micro-USB cable. Simply plug the USB cable into your controller and plug the other end into a USB port on your Xbox console. You can use this method to connect up to four controllers at once.

ABOUT AUTHOR

I am curiosity-driven and detail-oriented so you will often find me researching the latest trends, experimenting with search engine optimization, or testing software. As a keen observer of content, my teammates often like to joke that "noting escapes the eye of Beti."

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