Xbox Wireless Controller Sync Drops

GirffyB · Mar 14, 2022

I have an Xbox controller that I'm using via Bluetooth on my PC (Windows 11 Pro). It pairs fine with PC, but if I turn it off for any longer than an hour and then try to turn in back on, it won't sync (slow flash on the Xbox home button on controller.) After fiddling with it for 10 minutes or so (e.g. removing device, readding it, plugging it in via USB, unplugging it, turning it on/off over and over, etc...) I can generally get it working again.

Pertinent information:

I've restarted my computer multiple times

The controller has been fully updated via the Xbox Accessories app

At no point does the controller not show up in system settings as being paired with the PC

I have no other controllers or consoles (not even an Xbox)

The batteries are new

The controller is only a month old

If it's working and I turn it off for a short period (e.g. a minute or two) and then turn it back on, it syncs up fine

I can eventually get it to sync when having the issue, it just takes a while after it's been off

When it's synced, the controller works just fine and doesn't drop the sync. The problem is getting it to initially sync after the controller has been turned off for a while.

I've tried looking up this issue, but I haven't found any answers yet that work for me.

:)

GirffyB

Karusai, thanks for the reply.

I tried releasing/renewing ipconfig, restarted and left my setup alone for a couple of hours. When I turned my controller on just now, it synced after about 10 seconds, which is longer than what I'd like, but a damn sight better than 10 minutes. I'm going to try it again in the morning. If it still works, I'll let you know and mark your reply as a solution.

/update

This seemed to fix it. A day has passed and still not having the issue. I'm calling it solved. Thanks Karusai.

Karusai

Ok, the issue seems to be the same on my Series X. I'm a Certified Computer Specialist, I have a thought. I updated one controller and used it some connected to USB. When I tried to pair it, nada. So I performed all troubleshooting steps and couldn't get it to work. I unplugged my console and gently but repeatedly pressed my power button for about 30 seconds. Plugged it in, turned it on, turned on the non updated controller, and immediately connected even without re-pairing (syncing). I theorize there's an issue with the mac addressing. Try to use cmd commands ipconfig /release then ipconfig /renew. This will clear all connection information, including LAN, WiFi, and Bluetooth and reconnect with fresh info. Let me know your results.

LtHippieStomper

The wired pads are up to £25 where as the receiver is only £15.

Its works just the same as the Xbox, just sync the pad to wireless receiver holding the button on the pad and the button on the wireless receiver.

Controllers can only be synced to either the xbox or wireless receiver at a time. The controller cannot be synced to both.

No confusion

StuartATrueRed

To sync a controller to the Xbox you have to press the sync button on both the controller and the console. If you haven't done that, then it will not sync up. Instructions can be found here

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

Rishabh0067

Sync the Controller:
To sync a wireless controller with your Xbox, follow these steps:

Press the Xbox button on the controller to turn it on.
Press and hold the small sync button on the front of the Xbox Series X console (located near the USB port).
While holding the sync button on the console, press and hold the sync button on the controller (located on the top near the Xbox button).
Release both sync buttons when the controller's Xbox button starts flashing. The controller should now be synced with the console.

Xbox Wireless Controller Sync Drops