How to connect a game controller

Most modern game controllers connect to a Windows PC or a Mac with a USB cable or over Bluetooth. Both ways are shown here, using Xbox and PlayStation controllers as examples, along with what to do if the computer or the game does not respond.

What you need

• A controller that works with computers. Check the maker's page or the box for Windows or Mac support.
• For a wired connection, a USB cable that carries data. Some cables only charge.
• For a wireless connection, a computer with Bluetooth, and a controller with Bluetooth. Some Xbox controllers use a different wireless link and need an adapter, so check your model.
• Fresh batteries or a charged controller.

Option 1: connect with a USB cable

A cable is the simplest route and also charges the controller.

1. Plug the cable into the controller and into a USB port on the computer. Use a port on the computer itself, not on a hub.
2. Wait a few seconds. Windows sets the controller up by itself the first time. A Mac may take a moment too.
3. Open a game that supports controllers and press a button to confirm it responds.

If nothing happens, try another cable and another port. See USB device not recognized.

Option 2: connect with Bluetooth

Put the controller in pairing mode

The way to enter pairing mode depends on the controller. Check its manual or the maker's support page. Two common examples:

• PlayStation DualSense: make sure the controller is off (the player indicator light is out) and unplug any cable. Press and hold the Create button, then press and hold the PS button until the light bar blinks. Sony publishes these steps for use with a PC or Mac.
• Xbox Wireless Controller: turn it on with the Xbox button, then hold the small pairing button on the top edge of the controller until the Xbox button flashes quickly. Not every older Xbox controller supports Bluetooth, and Xbox's support site (support.xbox.com) explains which models do. Button positions can differ between models, so check the manual if you cannot find it.

Pair on Windows 11

1. Select the Network, Sound or Battery icon near the clock on the taskbar.
2. Turn on Bluetooth if it is off. Select the arrow next to it to Manage Bluetooth devices.
3. With the controller in pairing mode, select it under New devices. If it does not appear there, scroll through Your devices.
4. Follow any prompts and select Done. The light on the controller stops blinking and stays on.

Pair on Windows 10

1. Select Start then Settings then Devices then Bluetooth & other devices.
2. Select Add Bluetooth or other device, then Bluetooth.
3. Select your controller from the list and follow any prompts, then select Done.

Pair on a Mac

1. Put the controller in pairing mode.
2. Choose Apple menu then System Settings then Bluetooth (earlier macOS: System Preferences).
3. Select the controller from the list of nearby devices and select Connect.
4. In macOS Ventura 13 and later, open System Settings then Game Controllers and select the controller to customize its buttons.

Check that it worked

1. Open a game that supports controllers and press buttons. A game's store page or settings usually say whether it supports controllers.
2. On Windows, you can also test inside the game's own settings screen. Look for a controller or input option.
3. On a Mac, use System Settings then Game Controllers.

If something goes wrong

• The controller is not listed: put it back in pairing mode and keep it close to the computer. Turn Bluetooth off and on in settings.
• It connected before but not now: remove (forget) it in Bluetooth settings and pair again. On a Mac, select the information button next to the controller and choose Forget This Device.
• It is paired to a console or phone nearby: turn that device off, or Bluetooth on it, so the controller can connect to the computer.
• The computer sees it but the game does not: not every game supports every controller. Check the game's settings for controller options and the game's support page.
• Lag or disconnects: reduce the number of Bluetooth devices connected, install computer updates and controller firmware updates from the maker, and move closer. See Bluetooth keeps disconnecting or stutters.
• Some features are missing: Sony notes that DualSense haptic feedback needs a USB connection on a PC and is not supported on Mac, and the headset jack needs a wired connection.
• Bluetooth will not pair at all: see Bluetooth won't pair or connect.

Frequently asked questions