How to Connect Multiple Xbox Controllers to PC?

This article will show you how to connect multiple Xbox Controllers to a PC. It will also tell you everything you need to know about using Xbox Wireless Adapter to connect multiple controllers to a Windows computer.

Connect Multiple Xbox Controllers to PC with Wireless Adapter

Microsoft sells a dedicated dongle that adds the Xbox Wireless protocol to any computer with Windows 10 and 11 (not compatible with Windows 8 and 7). Also, some Surface computers and laptops from other manufacturers have Xbox Wireless built-in. There are many benefits of using the Xbox Wireless Adapter instead of regular Bluetooth. You get a much more stable and reliable connection, also you can connect more Xbox Controllers to a PC at once.

The Xbox Wireless adapter is a relatively inexpensive and convenient way to make your computer compatible with Xbox Wireless gamepads. Moreover, Xbox Wireless Adapter makes your PC compatible with all modern Xbox Wireless controllers, including those released alongside the original Xbox One. Finally, Xbox Wireless Adapter allows connecting other Xbox-certified accessories.

Probably the only downside is that the adapter works via USB-A only. For some reason, Microsoft does not make a USB-C version.

Note. Microsoft has two versions of the Xbox Wireless Adapter. The first generation is a huge clunky stick that looks more like a mini PC stick, and the second generation is a more compact and elegant device that resembles a regular USB thumb drive. Both versions work with Windows 10 and 11, and both versions allow connecting up to eight controllers to a computer.

Important. Xbox Wireless Adapter allows connecting up to 8 gamepads simultaneously, which is more than enough for local multiplayer and split-screen games. If you want more, you are out of luck.

Connect Xbox Wireless Adapter to your computer.
Tip. Do not use hubs or splitters to ensure the best connection. Also, we recommend connecting the adapter to a USB 3.0 port or better.
Grab your gamepad and press the Xbox button. It will start flashing.
Locate the connection button at the back of the gamepad above the USB port. Press and hold it to initiate pairing mode. The Xbox button will start flashing swiftly.
Now press and hold the only button on the adapter. Keep holding it for a few seconds.
Note. The adapter should be plugged into your computer when you press the button. The image above is for illustration to show you better where the connection button sits.
Your controller will pair automatically, and the Xbox button will stop flashing. Now repeat the previous steps for all the other controllers you want to connect. Again, you can connect up to eight controllers.

Tip. If you want to connect several Xbox controllers to an Xbox console, repeat the same steps. The only exception is that you do not need a dedicated adapter. Instead of pressing the button on the adapter, press the connection button on the console itself.

Connect Multiple Xbox Controllers to PC using Bluetooth

Now let us show how to connect several Xbox Controllers to a computer using Bluetooth.

Note. Connecting Xbox Controllers to a PC using Bluetooth may cause instabilities and input lags. Disconnect one or more controllers if you experience gameplay issues. Also, you may notice stability problems if you use a Bluetooth mouse, keyboard, or other peripheral devices. The number of Xbox controllers you can connect to a computer will depend on the Bluetooth generation your computer uses. More bandwidth means more controllers without input lags.

Press Win + I to open Windows Settings.
Go to Bluetooth & devices.
Click the Add device button with a prominent plus symbol.
Click Bluetooth. Your computer will enter pairing mode and start looking for available Bluetooth devices.
Grab your controller and power it on.
Press and hold the pairing button on the back of the controller. Wait for the Xbox logo to start flashing swiftly.
Select your controller from a list of available devices.
Now repeat the steps above to connect another gamepad. After that, you will see all your controllers in a list of paired devices.

How to Connect Multiple Xbox Controllers to PC using USB Cables?

Suppose your PC has no Bluetooth, and you do not want to spend money on adapters or dongles. In such a case, simple USB cables are here to save the day. You can connect multiple Xbox One Controllers to a PC using regular micro USB or USB-C cables.

Important. The newest Xbox One Wireless Controllers (those that come with Xbox Series X|S and have a dedicated share button between the sticks) use USB-C. Older models use micro USB.