How to Sync an Xbox One Controller

Do you need to sync your Xbox One controller? Here’s how to connect an Xbox One controller to any Xbox One model, and tips if it’s not syncing properly.

Wireless controllers are convenient, but connecting them can be a bit confusing. If you want to know how to connect an Xbox One controller to your Xbox console, we will explain what you need to know.

Whether you buy a new controller and need to sync it with your Xbox One, or bring your controller to a friend’s Xbox to play, pairing your Xbox One controller is not difficult.

Here’s how to pair the controller with each Xbox One model and some tips if it doesn’t work for any reason.

How to Sync an Xbox One Controller to Your Console Wirelessly

Wireless pairing is the most convenient method for connecting your Xbox One controller to your Xbox. Here’s how it works:

Press the Xbox button on the front of the system to turn on the Xbox One you want to sync with.
Next, turn on the controller by pressing and holding the Xbox button on the controller for a moment. The Xbox button will blink, indicating that you are looking for a console to sync with.
Press and release the “link” button on the console.
- On Xbox One X and Xbox One S, you will find this little round button below the power button in the lower right corner of the system.
- For the original Xbox One model, this button is located on the left side of the console, at the corner of the disc slot.
After pressing the button on the console, press and hold the small round binding button on the top of the controller. The Xbox button should flash a few times and then stay steady after connecting.

Once you’ve paired your Xbox One controller successfully, you can use it to navigate the home screen and play games.

How to Pair Your Xbox One Controller Using a Cable

If you prefer, you can also pair the Xbox One controller and console with a microUSB cable.

Just plug the cable into the USB port on the Xbox and plug the other end into the controller. Once connected, press and hold the Xbox button on the controller to synchronize them. After the synchronization is complete, you can disconnect the cable to use the controller wirelessly.

How to Sync an Xbox Controller to Your PC

We have written a comprehensive guide that explains how to connect your Xbox One controller to a Windows PC. Follow these steps to use your existing Xbox controller with your favorite PC games.

Can I Use Xbox Series S|X Controllers on Xbox One?

You may have noticed that the Xbox Series S controller | X is almost the same as the Xbox One controller, so Microsoft has added forward and backward compatibility to these controllers.

This means that you can use the Xbox One controller on Xbox Series S | X. In addition, you can use Xbox Series S | X on your Xbox One system. This is a convenient way to enjoy multiplayer games on any console, even if you lack some controllers.

Can’t Connect Your Xbox One Controller?

In most cases, the steps above should sync your Xbox controller and console. But if pairing doesn’t work, try the following tips:

Try to replace the battery in the controller. If you use the Xbox One Play and Charge Kit with a rechargeable battery, make sure your controller is charged. Confirm that the cable you use for charging/connection is working properly.
Keep the controller close to the console during synchronization. The wireless connection range between the console and the controller is approximately 2030 feet.
Turn off any other wireless devices in the vicinity of the Xbox and the controller (such as microwave ovens or laptops) to reduce interference.
Press and hold the Xbox button on the front of the system for about 10 seconds to completely restart the console. Unplug the power cord for at least 30 seconds, then plug it back in and turn the system back on.
Remember that you can only connect eight controllers to the system at a time.

Also, remember that when you press the Xbox button on the controller, it will try to connect to the last paired system. If you have multiple Xbox One consoles, your controller can connect to another system as soon as you turn it on.

Try to completely shut down and unplug any other Xbox One systems near you to avoid this overlap. This also applies if you try to connect the Xbox One controller to a PC while it is already paired with a nearby console.

If the problem persists, see the Xbox One Controller Troubleshooting Help to resolve the problem.

Still Having Trouble? Try Fixing Your Xbox Controller

Now you know how to pair the Xbox One controller with any console model. It’s not difficult, so if you encounter a problem, your controller may have a physical problem. If possible, try using the controller on a friend’s Xbox One, or contact Xbox support for hardware replacement or repair.