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For a gaming PC or PS5, a compatible USB cable is the simplest documented way to connect a controller. Bluetooth is an option only if both the controller and device support it. Xbox controllers can also connect to a Windows PC through Xbox Wireless when the controller and PC or adapter are compatible. Xbox-console pairing steps depend on the model; use the current Xbox instructions for your specific console and controller.
Choose a connection method
Start by checking the controller’s ports and wireless capabilities, then check what the PC or console supports. A cable must fit both ends and support data, not just charging. For wireless, the controller and target device must support the same connection method. Pairing also does not guarantee that every game will recognize every controller or feature.
| Method | Useful when | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| USB | You want a wired connection, or need to pair a DualSense with a PS5 for the first time. | Connector fit at both ends and a cable that supports data. Microsoft says most Xbox, PlayStation, and many third-party controllers support USB on Windows. Microsoft’s Windows connection guide covers the general PC route. |
| Bluetooth | You want a wireless connection and both devices support Bluetooth. | That the controller model has Bluetooth and can enter pairing mode. Windows’ available options depend on the controller and computer hardware; see Microsoft’s Xbox-controller PC guide. |
| Xbox Wireless on PC | You have a compatible Xbox controller and a PC or adapter that supports Xbox Wireless. | Compatibility between the controller and PC or adapter. Microsoft lists this as a PC connection option in its Xbox controller connection guide. |
Connect a controller to a Windows gaming PC
USB: connect the cable
- Match the cable ends to the controller and a compatible USB port on the PC. A cable that fits but only charges the controller may not establish a data connection.
- Connect the controller and wait for Windows to recognize it, then check the game’s controller settings.
Microsoft’s Windows 11 guidance says most Xbox and PlayStation controllers, along with many third-party models, support USB connections: How to Connect a Controller to a PC.
Bluetooth: pair a supported controller
- Turn on Bluetooth in Windows’ Bluetooth device settings.
- Put the controller into its model-specific pairing mode. The button sequence varies by controller, so follow its model instructions rather than assuming one combination works for all controllers.
- Select the controller when it appears among available Bluetooth devices.
If the controller does not appear, confirm its model supports Bluetooth, make sure it is in pairing mode, and verify the PC has Bluetooth capability. Microsoft lists Bluetooth alongside USB and Xbox Wireless for compatible Xbox-controller and PC setups: Microsoft’s connection options.
#1 Best Overall
- Compatible with Windows and Android.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate (for 2.4G and wired connection)
- Hall Effect joysticks and Hall triggers. Wear-resistant metal joystick rings.
- Extra R4/L4 bumpers. Custom button mapping without using software. Turbo function.
- Refined bumpers and D-pad. Light but tactile.
Xbox Wireless: an additional PC option
Xbox Wireless is distinct from Bluetooth. Use it only when the controller and PC—or a compatible adapter—support Xbox Wireless. Check compatibility before buying an adapter; the available guidance does not establish that every controller or PC supports it.
Connect a DualSense controller to a PS5
Pair it for the first time with USB
- Switch on the PS5.
- Connect the DualSense to the console with a USB cable.
- If the controller is off, press the PS button. The controller’s light bar blinks, and the player indicator lights when pairing is complete.
- For wireless play, disconnect the cable once the controller has enough charge.
PlayStation documents this initial setup in its controller support instructions. A DualSense paired with another PS5 must be paired with this console; PlayStation’s instructions say a DualSense can pair with one PS5 at a time.
Rank #2
- Platform Compatibility: This PC controller is designed for Windows PC, Steam, Switch, Android, and iOS. Xbox-style asymmetric stick layout for PC gamers. Three modes cover all your devices. Please check your device compatibility before purchase
- Three Connection Modes: 2.4G wireless, Bluetooth, wired USB-C. PC gets native XInput/DirectInput. Switch pairs via Bluetooth, no adapter. This gaming PC controller switches devices seamlessly. Stable wireless minimizes random disconnects during gaming
- Hall Effect Precision: Hall effect joysticks and triggers eliminate stick drift. This gaming controller for PC delivers smooth, responsive input with no dead zones. Built for FPS, racing, and action games. Long-term precision for competitive PC gaming
- Back Buttons & Battery: Two programmable back buttons map combos and shortcuts. Textured grips with dual vibration. 1000mAh battery delivers up to 20H playtime. RGB can be turned off. A solid PC controller for gaming with custom back buttons
- ABXY Layout Switch: Press B + Minus + Plus to swap between PC and Switch modes. Features: 1000Hz polling rate, RGB lighting, turbo. Note: designed without mic jack or gyro sensor
Pair a second controller over Bluetooth
- Use an already paired controller to open Settings > Accessories > General > Bluetooth Accessories on the PS5.
- On the second DualSense, hold the Create and PS buttons until the controller appears in the Bluetooth Accessories list.
- Select the controller on screen to pair it.
These steps are for adding a second controller wirelessly; PlayStation’s controller support page provides the console instructions.
Connect a controller to an Xbox
The available Microsoft instructions cover connecting Xbox controllers to a Windows PC, not a complete button-by-button pairing sequence for an Xbox console. For a console, follow the current Xbox support instructions for your particular console and controller model rather than applying PC pairing steps. On a Windows PC, the documented options for compatible Xbox controllers are USB, Bluetooth, and Xbox Wireless, as described in Microsoft’s PC guide.
Rank #3
- TMR Joysticks - Offering higher sensitivity, greater precision, and enhanced durability.
- 8BitDo Exclusive Wireless Technology - “8Speed”, it delivers an exceptionally stable 2.4G connection with ultra-low latency under 1ms. Engineered for rock-solid reliability, it features strong anti-interference and a 10m range with virtually no lag.
- Trigger Mode Switch - Easily switch between linear Hall Effect triggers and non-linear tactile triggers for optimal control across different gaming scenarios.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate (for 2.4G and wired connection). Customizable 6-Axis Motion Control. Turbo function. Rumble vibration. Support 8BitDo Ultimate Software V2.
- 2 Pro back paddle buttons, extra R4/L4 bumpers, and tactile bumpers & D-pad for enhanced control and faster response. Includes a multifunctional charging dock and USB-C adapter for seamless connectivity.
If the controller connects but a game does not respond
Device connection and game support are separate. First check Windows or the console’s accessory settings to confirm the controller is connected; then check the individual game’s controller support and input settings. PlayStation notes that DualSense recognition and features on PC can vary by game. Its DualSense PC guidance explains supported connection methods and game-dependent support.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Multi-Platform PC Gaming Controller: Working with Switch, PC, Android, and iOS devices via Bluetooth, wired, and wireless dongle connections.
- Hall Effect Joysticks: Delivering enhanced recentering performance for smoother control and superior anti-drift capability. Plus, with anti-friction rings.
- 2-Way Trigger Lock: With trigger stops, gamers can toggle between short and long pull positions. Additionally, gamers can activate hair trigger mode by pressing M+LT/RT (triggers must be in the long pull position).
- 1000Hz Polling Rate: This ensures that your inputs are registered almost instantaneously, minimizing lag and maximizing your performance during competitive play.
- Mechanical Circular D-pad: Designed for quick reactions and accuracy in every direction, this D-pad elevates your gaming experience with superior responsiveness.
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