Alternative ways to connect controller to xbox

Hello Dear User

Welcome to the Microsoft Community.

I understand that you are having trouble on ways of your controller connect to console, and I understand your confusion.

If the cable inside your Xbox One X that connects the controller to the console is broken and you've already tried replacing the controller with no success, there are still several alternative ways to connect your controller to the Xbox One X. Here's a list of methods you can try:

Wireless Connection (Bluetooth or Xbox Wireless)

Your Xbox controller supports wireless connection, and this is the most common method used for connecting it to the console. Here's how you can connect the controller wirelessly:

Steps for Wireless Connection:

1. Turn on your Xbox One X and your controller.
   

1. Press the Xbox button on the controller to turn it on.
   

1. On your Xbox One X, press the Pairing button (located on the front of the console, near the USB port).
   

1. On the controller, press and hold the Pairing button (located on the top of the controller next to the USB port).
   

1. Wait for the Xbox logo on the controller to blink rapidly, and once it’s paired, it will remain solid.
   

This method doesn't require the broken cable, as it connects wirelessly.

Using a USB Cable (Alternative)

If the internal cable is broken but the USB port on the console is functioning, you can try using a different USB cable (preferably a high-quality USB-A to USB micro-B or USB-C, depending on your controller type). This allows you to connect the controller to the Xbox for wired play.

Steps for USB Cable:

1. Use a USB-A to micro-USB cable (or USB-C if your controller supports it).
   

1. Plug the cable into your Xbox One X’s USB port.
   

1. Plug the other end into your controller.
   

1. The controller should automatically sync with the Xbox, and you can use it to play.
   

This will work as long as the USB port on the console itself is functional, even if the internal cable is broken.

Connect Through Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows (if you have one)

If you have an Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows (which is typically used for PC gaming), you can also use this to connect your controller wirelessly to your Xbox One X. Here’s how:

Steps for Xbox Wireless Adapter:

1. Plug the Xbox Wireless Adapter into a USB port on your Xbox One X.
   

1. Press the Pairing button on the adapter (a small button on the device).
   

1. Press and hold the Pairing button on your Xbox controller.
   

1. The controller and adapter should sync automatically.
   

This method works best if you have the Xbox Wireless Adapter.

Use an External Bluetooth Dongle (for Bluetooth-Compatible Controllers)

If your controller supports Bluetooth (most newer Xbox controllers do), you can try using a Bluetooth dongle (also known as a USB Bluetooth adapter) to connect the controller wirelessly. While this is more common for PC use, it can also work with the Xbox.

1. Plug the Bluetooth dongle into a USB port on your Xbox One X.
   

1. Press the Pairing button on both the controller and the Bluetooth dongle.
   

1. Wait for the devices to sync.
   

Controller Firmware Update or Factory Reset

If the above methods still don't work, it's worth checking if there's an issue with the controller's firmware or settings. You can try a factory reset of the controller via the Xbox settings or check for any available controller firmware updates.

Steps for Controller Firmware Update:

1. Connect the controller to the Xbox using a working USB cable (if the wireless connection isn't working).
   

1. Go to Settings > Devices & Streaming > Accessories.
   

1. Select your controller and check for any available updates.
   

1. If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions.
   

Please feel free to let me know if you have any further updates, thanks. 

Best Regards.

Lee-MSFT | Microsoft Community Support Specialist

This in itself is not exactly a problem, the alternative would be to have it recognised as a generic controller which wouldn't work in most PC games. The best solution for compatibility is to emulate Xbox controller input. If you're experiencing issues connecting, make sure you haven't installed any 3rd party apps or drivers that could interfere with the connectivity. Also, does the controller connect with a cable?

yes it does connect with cable but it connects with cable and emulates xbox 360 controller. ok then tell me if there is a way to connect it wirelessly while windows consider it xbox 360 controller i just want wireless

Thanks.

That's exactly what I was wanting to do or map the pedal functions (accelerator and brake) to the paddles on the wheel as an alternative - either way it is all hand controlled. The wheel is USB 2 connectivity. Sounds like a great solution especially if
the device will work on future xboxes.

Something along the lines of the Dualshock in terms of shape might be up your alley. Go look at Mad Catz controllers maybe they've got something that could help.

Hi

It is not possible to use the Xbox 360 wireless adapter to connect this controller to your PC. This controller looks like it features Bluetooth so you may be able to connect it this way or alternately you can connect it via a USB cable or the wireless adapter.

It may also be possible to purchase the controller and wireless adapter together such as I have linked below.

https://www.microsoft.com/store/d/x..._collection&rtc=1&activetab=pivot:overviewtab

Please note to use the Windows wireless adapter it looks like your PC must be running Windows 10.