How to Connect Xbox Controller to PC

September 3, 2024 By Christine Margret No Comments 5 minutes

Connecting an Xbox controller to a PC is super easy and can enhance your overall gameplay in three seconds. We will discuss the entire process in great detail below. However, before I get into the details, let me tell you that now you can connect to FastestVPN on your Xbox to unblock unlimited region-locked games.

Note: Xbox does not natively support VPNs. Luckily, you can configure FastestVPN on a supported router, then select a server of your choice and create an extension to your Xbox through the Xbox system settings.

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How to Connect Xbox Controller to PC

There are three easy methods to connect an Xbox controller to a PC. We will discuss each in detail below.

Connect your Controller to a PC by using a USB cable
Connect your Controller to a PC with a bluetooth
Connect your Controller to a PC Using a Wireless Adapter.

Also read: How to use a VPN for Xbox Series X.

Method 1: How to Connect Xbox Controller to PC Using a USB Cable

This method is suitable for wired controllers. It is one of the easiest methods, enabling you to connect an Xbox controller to the PC with a wired USB connection. Here’s how to do it:

Connect your USB cable with your PC
Connect the other end of the same cable with your Xbox controller
Hold the button on the Xbox controller until it lights up
That’s it! Windows versions 9 and 10 will detect the Xbox. You can now play Xbox games on a PC using the USB Cable method.

Method 2: How to Connect Xbox Controller to PC via Bluetooth

If you have the latest Xbox Wireless Gamepad version, you better know that it supports wireless communication and Bluetooth functionality. Also, for this method, remember to have an updated Windows 10 PC version. Here are steps to connect the Xbox controller to the PC using Bluetooth.

Power on the Xbox button by pressing it on the controller
Press and hold the pair button for three seconds until the Xbox button lights up and starts blinking.
Next, on your computer, click the Start button (represented by four squares)
In Windows 11, go to Settings > Bluetooth & devices.
Ensure Bluetooth is turned on.
Click “Add device” to locate and connect your Xbox controller.

Also read: How to Protect Xbox Console from DDoS Attacks

Method 3: Connect your Controller to a PC Using a Wireless Adapter.

If you have Xbox Wireless, you can follow this method to connect your Xbox controller to your PC. However, the prerequisite for this method is an Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows. If your PC has a built-in Xbox Wireless, you can directly connect the controller without an adapter. Here’s how to do it:

With Xbox Adapter:

Plug the Xbox Wireless Adapter into your device
Switch on your controller by pressing the Xbox power button
Press and hold the pair button on the Xbox Wireless Adapter until it lights up
Next, press and hold the pair button at the top. The Xbox button will flash quickly, indicating it is searching for the Xbox Wireless Adapter.
Once connected, the Xbox button will stay lit.

Without Xbox Adapter (Built-in Xbox Wireless)

If your system has a built-in Xbox Wireless, follow these steps to connect the Xbox controller to your PC:

Turn on your Xbox controller by pressing and holding the Xbox button on your controller for 3 seconds.
Next, press and hold the pair button on the top of the controller until the Xbox button begins flashing rapidly, indicating it’s searching for a PC.
Click the Start button on your PC, then head to Settings > Devices (or Windows 11: Settings > Bluetooth & devices).
Select “Add Bluetooth or other devices” (on Windows 11: “Add device”), then choose “Everything else.”
From the list, select “Xbox Wireless Controller” or “Xbox Elite Wireless Controller”. Once connected, the Xbox button light will turn stronger. You can now use the controller to play games hassle-free.

Also Read: How To Connect a PS5 Controller to a PS4.

What to do If Your Controller Won’t Connect

In case your controller fails to connect with your PC, here are a few steps to take:

Ensure that your device is charged 100%. If your controller’s batteries are low or dead, you must recharge or replace them.
Keep your system’s Bluetooth on. If your controller is active, it cannot connect to your PC without Bluetooth turned on.
Your system’s software must be compatible with your controller. If you use Bluetooth to connect your Xbox controller to a PC, ensure it runs the Windows 10 Anniversary Update or later.
Be careful where you place your controller. You should place the controller near your system. Wireless controllers have a connectivity range of about 19-28ft.
Lastly, keep updating your controller to optimize its capabilities and compatibility fully.

Conclusion

That’s all about connecting an Xbox controller to your PC. You can connect your controller to a Windows device using the abovementioned methods. Moreover, you can also enhance your gaming sessions with FastestVPN. By linking to one of FastestVPN’s servers, you can safely play and unblock restricted games on Xbox.