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Yes—an Xbox Wireless Controller can connect to supported Windows PCs and compatible phones, and it works with Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles. Bluetooth, a USB cable, or (on Windows) the Xbox Wireless Adapter may be options, depending on the controller version and device. That does not mean it works natively with PlayStation or Nintendo consoles, or that every game will accept controller input.
Which devices can use an Xbox controller?
Microsoft lists the current Xbox Wireless Controller for Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S, Windows PCs, Android devices, and iOS devices, subject to device and operating-system compatibility. Apple also documents wireless Xbox controller support on iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro, with requirements that vary by device. Check the controller compatibility information and Apple’s connection instructions for the applicable model and OS.
| Host device | What is documented | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Windows PC | Bluetooth, a compatible USB cable, or the Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows. | Windows version, controller revision, connection method, and game support. |
| Android or iOS phone | Bluetooth on compatible devices and controller revisions. | Phone OS, controller Bluetooth support, and whether the game supports controllers. |
| Apple TV, Mac, iPad, iPhone, or Apple Vision Pro | Apple documents wireless Xbox controller connections for supported devices. | Apple’s device-specific OS requirements and the app or game’s controller support. |
| Xbox One or Xbox Series X|S | Microsoft lists these Xbox console families as compatible. | Use a controller version supported by the console. |
| PlayStation or Nintendo console | Native compatibility is not established by the official documentation cited here. | Do not assume support; any third-party adapter needs model-specific confirmation. |
How to connect an Xbox controller to a Windows PC
Choose Bluetooth, USB, or Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows. The adapter is an option, not a requirement for every PC. Microsoft lists Bluetooth connectivity for compatible Windows 10 and Windows 11 PCs; its Windows documentation also describes Xbox Wireless Controller as a wired or Bluetooth Game Input-compatible controller. See Microsoft’s Bluetooth guidance, Windows controller information, and Xbox Wireless Adapter setup.
Recommended Free Tools
- Bluetooth: Use this when both the controller revision and PC support it. Put the controller into pairing mode, then select it in the PC’s Bluetooth settings.
- USB cable: Connect the controller to the PC with a cable that fits the controller’s port. Current versions use USB-C, but older controllers may have a different port; check yours before buying a cable. Microsoft documents wired use with its USB-C cable.
- Xbox Wireless Adapter: Use Microsoft’s Windows adapter if you specifically want that wireless connection or Bluetooth is not the right option for your setup. Follow Xbox’s adapter setup instructions.
How to connect it to a phone or Apple device
For a compatible Android or iOS device, Bluetooth is the wireless connection method Microsoft lists. Apple’s guide covers wireless Xbox controller pairing on iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, Mac, and Apple Vision Pro; follow its device-specific OS requirements rather than assuming every version is supported.
#1 Best Overall
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
- Confirm that your controller revision supports Bluetooth and that the host device meets the applicable compatibility requirements.
- Put the controller in pairing mode.
- Open the device’s Bluetooth settings and select the Xbox controller when it appears.
- Open the game or app and confirm it accepts controller input; successful pairing alone does not guarantee support.
For exact supported devices and setup details, see Microsoft’s controller information, Microsoft’s Bluetooth guidance, and Apple’s instructions.
Can you use it on a PlayStation or Nintendo console?
Do not count on native compatibility. Microsoft’s compatibility listing names Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles, not PlayStation or Nintendo systems. Third-party adapters may be available, but compatibility depends on the specific adapter, controller revision, and console. The official documentation cited here does not establish support for any particular adapter, so verify the adapter maker’s current compatibility information before relying on one.
Rank #2
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
Does it work with every PC or mobile game?
No. Device pairing and game support are separate questions: a controller can connect successfully while a particular game or app does not accept controller input. Microsoft qualifies compatibility by device and operating-system version. Steam likewise notes that not all Steam games support controller use in its Big Picture documentation. Check the game’s own input or controller settings if it does not respond.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute2Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems3Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesWhat about Steam Link?
Steam’s hardware FAQ lists the official Xbox One S Controller among controllers supported by Steam Link, including Bluetooth use. This is specific to that controller model and Steam Link setup; it is not proof that every Xbox controller, streaming app, or game will work. See the Steam Link hardware FAQ.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Tri-mode Connectivity: Wired for Xbox, 2.4G & Wired for PC, and Bluetooth for Android. The G7 Pro supports seamless connectivity across Xbox, PC, and Android. Effortlessly switch between modes using the convenient physical mode switch.
- TMR Sticks: The G7 Pro features GameSir's Mag-Res TMR sticks, combining Hall Effect durability with traditional potentiometer performance. This advanced technology delivers stable polling rates for smooth, drift-free gaming with low power consumption.
- Hall Effect Analog Triggers: The GameSir precision-tuned Hall Effect analog triggers provide unmatched smoothness and linear input for precise control. Featuring clicky Micro Switch trigger stops, gamers can easily switch based on their preferences.
- 1000Hz Polling Rate on PC: Experience ultra-responsive gaming with a 1000Hz polling rate on PC, available through both wired and 2.4G wireless connections. This ensures instantaneous input registration, reducing lag and optimizing your performance for the most competitive gameplay.
- GameSir Nexus App: The G7 Pro is compatible with the upgraded GameSir Nexus app, which brings a significant upgrade over the original. It introduces powerful new features such as gyro settings, stick curve adjustments, and button-to-mouse mapping, giving you deeper customization and more control than ever before.
Rank #4
- BREAKER SERIES — Hold nothing back. Ice Breaker keeps it forever fresh with a mix of iced and frosted blues. Part of the collective debut of the Breaker special edition series.
- BOLD STYLE, BUILT TO PERFORM — Define your swagger with a wild, head-turning design. Stay elegantly on target with textured triggers built for every moment.
- RUBBERIZED GRIPS — Hold on to the action with rubberized grips on the back cases, designed for comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- UP TO 40 HOURS OF BATTERY LIFE — Get up to 40 hours of battery life so you can keep playing without stopping to recharge.
- PLAY ACROSS EVERY SCREEN — Quickly pair with, play on, and switch between devices including console and PC. Stream games across mobile, gaming handhelds, Smart TVs, and supported VR headsets with XBOX Cloud Gaming.
Rank #3
- MODERNIZED DESIGN — Experience the modernized design of the XBOX Wireless Controller with sculpted surfaces and updated geometry that enhances comfort and control during long gaming sessions.
- PRECISION PERFORMANCE — Stay on target with a hybrid D-pad and textured grips on triggers, bumpers, and back case for improved accuracy and handling.
- SHARE BUTTON: Seamlessly capture and share content such as screenshots, recordings, and more with the new Share button.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY — Connect via USB-C for plug-and-play on console and PC, or quickly pair and switch between supported devices with XBOX Wireless and Bluetooth support.
- BUILT-IN AUDIO SUPPORT — Plug in compatible headsets using the 3.5mm audio jack for direct voice chat and immersive in-game sound.
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