Xbox series X control drift

Unboxed my Series X in October. Stick drift within a month. My Xbox 360 Elite controller still works flawlessly after nearly 15 years.

The new controllers are garbage.

The first thing I did was update my controller and it's still drifting on the y axis. The Xbox controller that I use for my pc that I got 7 years ago works. My 360 controllers works. The series x controller, 1.5 years old, drifts like crazy. Just outta warranty, funny how that works. 😜

that's bummer, i understand my normal xbox controller drifting, but elite series?

While it’s true the series X leaves a lot to be desired, the root of this problem is not with actual console but the controller hardware itself. A lot of controllers don’t have the drift problem and the ones that do can be fixed mostly with the physical disassembly and cleaning method.

Hello Jorge Samaniego,

Greetings!

Thank you for posting in Microsoft Community.

If you’re having trouble with your Xbox Wireless Controller, our troubleshooting steps can help. We can also assist with replacing your controller.

Note Many controller issues can be resolved by putting the controller through a complete power cycle. To do so, press and hold the Xbox button until the controller turns off, wait a few seconds, and then turn the controller back on.

Before you try other solutions, first inspect your controller to make sure that it’s clean, nothing is lodged in the thumbsticks or buttons, and that there’s no damage.

We recommend disconnecting your controller before cleaning it. Use a soft lint-free cloth (microfiber cloths work great) dampened with a little bit of mild soap and water, isopropyl alcohol solution (70% or less), or premoistened disinfectant wipes. Never apply liquids directly to your controller. Clean every 3-6 months or whenever needed.

Update your controllerIf your controller connects when using a USB cable but doesn't stay connected after removing the cable, reconnect the cable and see if there’s an update available for your controller:

1. Press the Xbox button  to open the guide.
   
2. Under Profile & system, select Settings.
   
3. Under Devices & connections, select Accessories.
   
4. On the Xbox Wireless Controller screen, select “…” to check the firmware version for your controller.
   
5. If it says there’s no update available, your controller is current. If it says “Update,” follow the steps provided.
   
6. Once your controller is updated, disconnect the USB cable and try connecting wirelessly again.
   

If you’re unable to update your controller, see the “I can’t update my controller” section of this page.

Check your controller’s button mapping settingsIf you’re seeing unexpected controller behavior across all game and apps, it could mean that your controller button configuration has been remapped. To check your current controller button settings:

1. Press the Xbox button  to open the guide.
   
2. Under Profile & system, select Settings.
   
3. Under Devices & connections, select Accessories.
   
4. On the Xbox Wireless Controller screen, select Configure.
   
5. Carefully review the current mapping for each of the buttons on your controller. You can also select Restore to default to set the controller back to its original button mapping.
   

For more info on controller button names and basic functions, see:

Get to know your Xbox One Wireless Controller

If this doesn’t solve the issue, your controller needs to be replaced.

Request an Xbox controller replacement

Troubleshoot your Xbox Wireless Controller | Xbox Support

We're looking forward to hearing from you. If there are any inquiries about our description or if there are any misconceptions, do reply to the post.