How to Use Your Xbox One Controller With a PC

The Xbox One controller is a step up from the Xbox 360 controller, refining an already fantastic gamepad. The 360 controller is the de facto standard for many a PC gamer who prefers to play games without a keyboard and mouse, and thanks to rubberised analogue sticks that give it much needed grip, and a directional pad that's actually usable in fighting games, the Xbox One controller is well worth the price of entry.

While Microsoft is taking its own sweet time in making it usable on the PC without wires, you can easily game on your computer with an Xbox One controller that's wired in.

In addition to a computer with Windows, all you need is a Micro-USB cable (used for charging most Windows and Android smartphones), an Internet connection to download the required drivers, and, of course, an Xbox One controller.

1. Install drivers
   Boot up your PC, connect to the Internet. Download and install one of these driver packages depending on your version of Windows:



PC drivers for 32-bit Windows

PC drivers for 64-bit Windows

2. Connect the controller
   With the drivers installed, plug in the Micro-USB end of the cable to the controller and the USB end of it into your computer's USB port. If it works, the controller will vibrate. If it does not vibrate, try another Micro-USB cable and/ or a different USB port.

That's all you need to do to get your Xbox One controller working on the PC.

Please note:

If you plan on using the same controller with an Xbox One, you will need to re-sync the controller to the console. You can do this by holding the wireless sync buttons on the console and controller at the same time or attaching it to the console via Micro-USB cable.