How to use your Xbox Series X controller on PC

Wanting to use your Xbox Series X controller on PC? You're not alone. While there's no denying that console gaming using your Xbox has some serious perks, your PC is no slouch in the gaming department either and hooking up your controller to your PC can give you the best of both worlds. 

For starters, if you have one of the best graphics cards, then chances are you're going to enjoy some pretty outstanding visuals on your PC, plus, the best PC games often cost a lot less than Xbox games, so if you're looking to save yourself some money, figuring out how to use your Xbox Series X controller on PC can be well worth it.

The latest and greatest Xbox consoles, the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, launched with a new take on Xbox controllers. Although they may look similar to the controller that came with the Xbox One, there are some differences that you'll find with the Xbox Series X/S controller. 

Perhaps the biggest difference between the newer and older controller has been the introduction of a Share button which allows you to easily capture screenshots. If you've ever used the Sony PS4 Slim then you'll know that this was introduced there several years ago, so it's good to see Xbox finally playing catch up on that one. 

Although this new version of the Xbox controller has been designed first and foremost to give you an outstanding experience on your next-gen console, we love that you can also easily carry it over to your PC. Not only is it amongst the best controllers for PC that you can buy in 2022, but learning how to set it up and use your Xbox Series X controller on PC is relatively straightforward.

Below, we walk you through exactly how to get the job done, including outlining the process using both Bluetooth and a micro-USB cable. Let's take a look...

How to use your Xbox Series X controller on PC via USB-C

Using a USB-C cable is the simplest way to play, as it removes any fears of the battery draining while you're having fun. It does mean you'll be tethered with the length of the cord, though. To set up your controller on PC for the first time, do the following:

• Connect a USB-C cable to your controller
• Connect the other end to a USB 3.0 or better port on your PC. 
• Windows should automatically install the correct driver. If it doesn't, make sure you have the latest version of Windows installed.
• When it's ready, the Xbox button on the controller will turn white.

How to use your Xbox Series X controller on PC via Bluetooth

Using a Bluetooth connection for your controller eliminates any worries of being tangled or tethered with a cord. You'll have to keep an eye on the battery life, though.

• Turn on your Xbox controller by holding down the Xbox button.
• Press the Pairing button to begin the Bluetooth pairing process. 
• Press the Start button on your PC. 
• Then select Settings, then Devices, then Bluetooth & other devices.
• Turn on Bluetooth.
• Select Add Bluetooth or other device.
• Select Xbox Wireless Controller.

If your PC doesn't support Bluetooth, you can add support with a Bluetooth dongle like the Techkey that'll connect via USB. 

How to update your Xbox Series X controller on PC

To make sure your controller stays updated with the latest firmware and features available on PC, you'll want to download the Xbox Accessories App. It's an optional step but one that ensures you'll always have the best experience possible.

How to use your Xbox Series X controller on Steam

In most cases, your Xbox controller should automatically work with a PC game if it's connected. As Xbox controllers are among the most popular controller choices for PC gamers to use, everything generally works automatically without any special settings. 

If you want to absolutely guarantee that everything functions as intended, however, you can enable something called Big Picture Mode. Here's how.

• Open Steam.
• Make sure your controller is connected via USB-C or Bluetooth.
• Select Steam settings.
• Select Controller.
• Select General Controller Settings.

Steam should now show that you have a controller connected and will either automatically select certain settings or ask you to configure your Xbox Series X controller. You can remap buttons however you please. 

When you're done, make sure to select Generic Gamepad Configuration Support and Xbox Configuration Support and you'll be good to go.