Windows 11 · Windows
Fix a Controller Not Connecting on Windows
Source-checked About 10 minutes
Answer
For a Bluetooth controller, put it in pairing mode, turn on Bluetooth in Windows, then add or re-add it in Settings. If it still fails, run the Windows Bluetooth troubleshooter, update Windows, and test the controller's battery and range.
Identify the connection type
Check whether the controller uses Bluetooth, a USB cable, or its own wireless receiver. Follow the controller maker's pairing instructions for its specific pairing mode instead of trying random button combinations.
Charge and position the controller
Charge or replace the controller battery, turn the controller off and back on, and keep it close to the PC. A low battery or being out of range can prevent pairing or cause an unstable connection.
Turn on Bluetooth
Open Start > Settings > Bluetooth & devices and turn on Bluetooth. Put the controller into its documented pairing mode before selecting Add device.
Remove and add it again
If Windows lists the controller but it will not connect, open its More options menu, choose Remove device, then choose Add device and select it again. Remove only the controller you intend to re-pair.
Run the Windows troubleshooter
On Windows 11, open the Get Help app and run the Bluetooth troubleshooter. Let it complete its diagnostics before changing drivers manually.
Update and restart
Open Start > Settings > Windows Update > Check for updates, install available updates, then restart the PC. Test the controller directly with another USB port or without an unpowered hub when it uses a cable or receiver.
Video walkthrough
If it does not work
- If the controller works on another PC but not this one, keep the connection type and any Windows error for the controller maker or Microsoft Support. If it fails on every device, stop changing Windows settings and check the controller, cable, battery, or receiver for a hardware issue.
- If Bluetooth is absent from Windows Settings, use the PC maker's support information to confirm that the computer has a working Bluetooth adapter before repeatedly attempting to pair the controller.
Sources and verification
Checked against official documentation on . Scope: Windows.
Follow the linked first-party guidance if labels differ after a platform or app update.