Hey! Connecting your Xbox Wireless Controller to your PC is pretty easy, and I can walk you through it. You have a few options depending on how you like to connect things.
If your controller has a smoother plastic surface around the Xbox button (as compared to older models with a more textured look), it probably supports Bluetooth. Here's what you need to do:
Turn on Bluetooth on your PC: Head over to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices and make sure Bluetooth is turned on.
Pair the Controller: Turn on your controller by holding the Xbox button, then press and hold the pairing button on top of the controller until the Xbox button starts flashing. On your PC, click 'Add Bluetooth or other device', select 'Bluetooth', and then pick your Xbox Wireless Controller from the list.
For a simple and reliable connection, you can use a USB cable:
If Bluetooth isn't your cup of tea, you might want to grab the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows:
Plug in the Adapter: Pop the adapter into a USB port on your PC.
Pair Your Controller: Turn on the controller with the Xbox button, then press the pairing button on the adapter followed by the one on your controller. The Xbox button will flash as they connect.
While you're at it, think about how you'll power your controller. According to our research, these controllers use two AA batteries, but you can also go for Microsoft's Play and Charge Kit to recharge via USB. A lot of folks prefer the rechargeable option for the convenience and long-term savings.
Whichever method you choose, these steps should have you gaming smoothly on your PC. Hope this helps, and happy gaming!
When you put the Xbox One controller next to the Xbox Series X/S controller, a few differences pop out.
First off, neither comes with built-in rechargeable batteries—they use AA batteries instead. They're included at first, but if you prefer, you can grab Microsoft’s rechargeable battery pack. This setup lets you swap batteries on the go, rather than being tethered to a cable while charging. Some folks love this flexibility, but others really miss having built-in rechargeables.
As for connectivity, both controllers have Bluetooth, which is great for hooking up to Windows 10 PCs and tablets, besides your Xbox. But, our research mentions that Bluetooth connectivity can sometimes be iffy depending on your setup and nearby devices.
The Series X/S controllers have stepped up with better grip texture and an improved D-pad—a nod to the pricey Elite Series 2 controller—and they also added a Share button, making capturing and sharing gameplay a breeze.
If you’re planning to use the controller with a PC, our data suggests that audio quality through the 3.5mm jack is pretty solid. Though, to get the best out of it, you might want to use the official Xbox wireless adapter over Bluetooth to keep that audio sharp.
According to our findings, the Series X/S controllers are usually seen as more comfortable for long sessions, thanks to slight ergonomic improvements. One bummer people often mention is the lack of a rechargeable battery in the box—which was a common gripe with the Xbox One controller too.
All in all, both controllers are dependable, but the Series X/S model has a few nice refinements, like enhanced grips and the Share button. Just be ready for the extra purchase if you want rechargeables.
So, about the Xbox Wireless Controller's battery life—it uses two AA batteries that you'll get when you buy it. From what we've found, these batteries can last quite a while, but it really depends on how much you play. Some folks feel that the AA setup isn't the most convenient if you're hoping for something rechargeable.
If you're not into swapping out AAs, there's a workaround. The controller works well with Microsoft's Play and Charge Kit. This is an optional add-on, though (sold separately), which comes with a rechargeable battery pack and charges through a USB-C cable. Going with this or rechargeable AA batteries might save you from constantly buying new ones.
As for the controller itself, it's got a comfy design with textured grips and responsive buttons that a lot of gamers like. Just a heads up—our research did point out some potential issues with Bluetooth connectivity on PCs. The Xbox Wireless Adapter could be your friend here if you want a more reliable connection.
All in all, the Xbox Wireless Controller is a solid pick for gaming on both Xbox One and Windows 10. You have some flexibility with how you want to handle batteries, and it's built pretty tough.
But if a seamless connection to PCs is super important to you, you might want to think about getting an adapter or similar accessory just for peace of mind.
Yep, the Xbox Wireless Controller does have Bluetooth. This makes it easy to connect to a bunch of devices like the Xbox One X, Xbox One S, Xbox One, and Windows 10 PCs or tablets.
As the manufacturer says, Bluetooth is a key feature, letting you pair it directly with those devices without needing an extra dongle.
If you're using it on a PC, setup is pretty simple. If your PC has Bluetooth, you can connect wirelessly. But if it doesn't, or if you just prefer a wired connection, you can use a micro USB cable instead.
One thing to note, though—our research found that there can sometimes be connectivity issues with Bluetooth, like having to re-pair the controller. But most folks find the Bluetooth setup fairly easy overall.
As for range, the Bluetooth connection is usually pretty solid, letting you move around without losing connection. According to our research, someone even walked around their house without any connection problems.
The controller uses two AA batteries, which do come included. But if you're planning on some long gaming sessions or just don't like changing batteries all the time, you might want to check out a rechargeable battery pack.
Some people see the lack of an included rechargeable battery as a downside, but you can also get Microsoft’s Play and Charge Kit if you'd rather not deal with battery swaps.
All in all, the Xbox Wireless Controller is liked for its build quality and comfy design, so it's a hit with both console and PC gamers who want a reliable and comfortable gaming experience.
Whether you're playing on your Xbox or Windows 10 PC, the controller’s Bluetooth feature adds some nice convenience.
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