Connecting a controller to Windows makes your favorite games more accessible. So how is the Windows 11 controller connection made?
Windows 11 is a great operating system for productivity, but it’s also the most popular gaming platform. Whether you’re gaming on one of the best laptops or desktops, connecting a controller to Windows makes your favorite games more accessible. Fortunately, Windows makes pairing a gamepad super easy.
How to connect Windows 11 controller?
There are two ways to pair a controller with Windows 11. You can pair via Bluetooth (if your PC has one) or wireless dongle. We will discuss both methods, but those using dongles should be much simpler. Most modern gamepads (like the Xbox Controller, Nintendo Switch Controller, or PlayStation DualShock/DualSense controller) work well with PCs over Bluetooth. Some other third-party controllers may use a wireless dongle instead.
Pairing with Bluetooth
To pair a Bluetooth controller with Windows 11, you need to turn the feature on. If your PC doesn’t have Bluetooth (most modern PCs should), you can buy an external Bluetooth dongle. Once Bluetooth is enabled, you can put your controller into pairing mode. Here’s how:
- Put your controller in pairing mode. On the Xbox Controller, press and hold the pairing button. On the Nintendo Switch controller, press the sync button at the top of the gamepad. On the PlayStation DualShock 4 or DualSense controller, simultaneously press and hold the Share button and the central circular button. Other controllers should also have a sync button.
- Open the Windows 11 Quick Settings area by pressing Windows Key + A.
- Turn it on by clicking the Bluetooth icon.
- Press the arrow key next to Bluetooth.
- Scroll down the list and go to New Devices.
- Find your controller in the list and click it.
- Windows 11 will automatically pair with your controller when you select it from the list. No further action is required.
Pairing wirelessly
To pair a controller to Windows using a wireless dongle, all you have to do is plug the dongle you are using into your PC’s USB-C or USB-A port and then put the controller into pairing mode. It will automatically pair to your PC. You shouldn’t visit extra steps or settings pages, but some controllers may install special software to change controller settings.
Enhance your gaming experience
Now you have your controller connected to Windows 11 and you can think of other important things. Get a great essential headset and connect it to your PC via Bluetooth for a more personal sound. Or consider a new gaming monitor, make your games more realistic. These are great ways to stay in the action while gaming on Windows.