How to Connect Xbox Controller to Windows 11: A Quick Guide

This article explains how to connect an Xbox Wireless Controller to Windows 11.

You must connect your Xbox Wireless Controller to Windows 11 to play games with your Xbox Wireless Controller instead of using a keyboard and mouse.

You can connect using a USB cable, the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows, or Bluetooth. If you are lucky and your Windows device comes with Xbox Wireless functionality built-in, you can connect a controller directly without an adapter.

Below are some ways to connect their Xbox Wireless Controller to Windows 11.

Connect Xbox Wireless Controller using a USB Cable

A USB cable is the most common and easiest way to connect your Xbox Controller to Windows.

Plug a micro-USB charging cable into the top of the controller and plug the other end into your PC.

Things to keep in mind:

• If you’re using an Xbox Series X|S, Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, or Xbox Adaptive Controller, connect your controller using a USB-C cable.
• If your Windows device can’t detect your controller after waking up from sleep, press the Xbox button  on your controller to turn it back on, or unplug it from your device and then plug it back in.

With USB connections, you can connect 8 Xbox Wireless Controllers simultaneously or four controllers with Xbox Chat Headsets attached. However, only two can be connected simultaneously if the controllers have Xbox Stereo Headsets.

Connect Xbox Wireless Controller using Bluetooth

Another way users can connect their Xbox Wireless Controller to Windows is via a Bluetooth connection.

You might need the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows to connect with Xbox Wireless. However, if your PC has Xbox Wireless built-in, you can connect to the controller directly without an adapter.

To do that, first, turn on Bluetooth on Windows 11.

Then press and hold the Pair button on the Xbox controller for three seconds to see the Xbox button start flashing rapidly.

Next, open Quick Settings (Windows key + A) on Windows and select the Manage Bluetooth devices menu arrow to scan and add new devices.

On the Quick Settings flyout window for Bluetooth devices, under New devices, click on the Xbox Wireless Controller or Xbox Elite Wireless Controller when discovered by your PC to connect.

The Xbox Wireless Controller will pair and connect to your Windows machine.

Alternatively, users can use the Windows Settings app, to connect their Xbox Wireless Controller via Bluetooth.

The steps are similar to how one connects a Bluetooth device to Windows. Read the post below to learn how to connect Bluetooth devices to Windows 11.

How to connect a Bluetooth device to Windows 11

On your Windows PC, press the Start button, then select Settings > Bluetooth & devices.

Next, press and hold the Pair button on the Xbox Controller for three seconds to see the Xbox button start flashing rapidly. 

Then select Add a device on the Windows 11 Bluetooth & device page and click Bluetooth on the dialog window.

Choose Xbox Wireless Controller or Xbox Elite Wireless Controller from the list. When connected, the Xbox button on the controller will stay lit.

That should do it!

Reference:

Microsoft.com

Conclusion:

• Connecting your Xbox Wireless Controller to Windows 11 opens up a new world of gaming possibilities, allowing you to enjoy your favorite games with familiar controls.
• Whether through a USB cable, the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows, or Bluetooth, the process is straightforward and provides flexibility to suit your preferences and hardware.
• The comprehensive guide above ensures that you can seamlessly pair your Xbox Wireless Controller with Windows 11, enabling you to dive into your gaming adventures without hassle.
• Should you encounter any issues or have additional insights to share, feel free to engage through the comments section, contributing to the ongoing conversation about connecting Xbox Wireless Controllers to Windows 11.