XBox One Wireless Controller Won’t Connect to Console

Hi there Tim,

Thanks for reaching out here in Xbox Forums. I'm sorry to hear about the issue with the controller not staying connected to the Xbox.

I recommend to try the following article:
Troubleshoot your Xbox One wireless controller (My controller won’t connect to my console or PC)

Try this out and let us know the results.

Hey Vincent,

Yes, you can use the controller while connected to the console using usb cable. This won’t affect performance and won’t damage the controller. Using the controller wired of course means you don’t need to use batteries.

You can also update the controller while connected through USB cable.

Standard xbox one controllers require a micro USB cable. The elite series 2 and xbox adaptive controllers require USB type C cable.

Instructions on connecting an xbox one controller to console:

https://support.xbox.com/help/hardware-network/controller/connect-a-wireless-controller

Any questions, I’m happy to help 😊

Hey ChopsThePig!

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If you’re having difficulty initiating connectivity of your controller to your console, this may indicate one of the following issues: •The wireless controller's batteries are weak, or the Xbox One Rechargeable Battery Pack needs recharging.

Notes

◦If the controller’s batteries are weak, you may experience only partial functionality, such as vibration not working. This partial functionality is by design to stretch the remaining battery life.

◦The controller may have enough power to turn back on briefly, but until the batteries are replaced, it won’t stay on for long.

•Another wireless device (such as a microwave oven, a cordless phone, or a wireless router) is interfering with the wireless controller's connection to the console.

•Metallic objects (such as metal dividers, shelves, or doors of an entertainment center) that are positioned between the console and the wireless controller are causing interference with the wireless controller's connection to the console.

•Eight wireless controllers are already connected, and you're trying to connect an additional wireless controller.

•Your Xbox One hardware is malfunctioning.

Solutions

To resolve this problem, try the following solutions:

Solution 1: Replace the batteries or recharge the battery pack. If the Xbox button on your Xbox One console is lit up, your wireless controller has power. If the Xbox button on your console is not lit, try replacing the batteries in your
wireless controller to ensure that the controller remains connected. For more information, see Your Xbox One Wireless Controller won't power on.

Solution 2: Power cycle your console. Follow these steps:

1.While the console is on, press and hold the console’s Xbox button for 5 seconds. The console will turn off.

2.Wait 30 seconds, and then turn your console on again by pressing the Xbox button on your controller or on your console.

Note If your console is in Instant-On power mode, the steps above will shut the console completely off. (Instant-On mode, or the ability to turn on your console by saying “Xbox On,” won’t be enabled until you restart the console.)

Full notes here:
support.xbox.com/.../wireless-controller-disconnects

I would double check those batteries! I've had problems with cheap batteries not having enough juice, put them in a tester and the tester barely lit up.. If you're not getting any rumble feedback in games as well, usually a symptom of low batteries.

Using a USB cable to connect-

Connect your controller using a micro-USB cable (included with all standard Xbox One wireless controllers and the Xbox One Play & Charge Kit). Standard alkaline batteries won’t be used to power the controller functions while you’re using your controller
as a wired controller.

If you’re using an Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 or Xbox Adaptive Controller, connect your controller using a USB-C cable (included with both controllers).

Depending on the type of controller you have, plug the micro-USB or USB-C cable into the power port on the back of the controller then plug the other end of the cable into your Xbox One. More details can be found
here on connecting your wireless controller to Xbox consoles: https://beta.support.xbox.com/help/hardware-network/controller/connect-a-wireless-controller

Hi and Sulute

sorry to hear.

If this controller was previously connected to the console but is no longer able to connect, you should repeat the connection process using the console’s connect button.

For info on how to connect your wireless controller to an Xbox One, Xbox One S, or Xbox One X, see

Connect a wireless Xbox One controller to your console.

If this does not help try "Troubleshoot your Xbox One wireless controller"

Hope this helps