Xbox One Wireless Controller Won't Connect to Console

Your batteries may be low. If the batteries are low, the controller's wireless signal strength may be weak and therefore will not connect to the console. You are going to want to replace your batteries or charge the controller.

Parts: AA Batteries for Xbox One, Xbox One Controller Charging Cable

Tools required: None

A conflicting signal may be responsible for connectivity issues. Consider turning off nearby wireless devices and reconnecting the controller.

Make sure you do not have more than eight controllers connected. That is the limit for the Xbox One console.

If you set down your controller for longer than fifteen minutes and then come back to an unresponsive controller, you may need to turn the controller back on.

Your Xbox One Controller signal has a range of 30 feet (9.1 meters). Make sure you are within this range.

If you sync your controller to another device, you will need to re-sync it back to your console. To do this, turn on the Xbox One and hold down the sync button on your controller. Simultaneously, hold down the sync button on your console until the light on your controller begins to flash at a rapid pace. Once this happens, release both sync buttons. Your controller should now be connected after about five to ten seconds.

Some people have reported that the controller will not connect with the headset mic plugged in. Unplug the mic, and reconnect. Sync if necessary. Plug the mic back in after establishing a connection.

If you are using a Model 1697 controller, your internal headphone jack may be damaged. Try unplugging the mic and trying again. If you continue to have problems, try a different pair of headphones that are known to work.

Parts: Xbox One headphone jack, Xbox One headset adapter

Tools required: T6 Torx, TR8 Torx, Spudger, tweezers (recommended)

Tools are not required if you use the Xbox One headset adapter to fix the issue.

If you've been using your controller for long enough, you'll know that the battery life isn't what it used to be. If your controller has been dying quicker and quicker up to this point, or if you've left your controller uncharged for multiple months, the battery is likely degraded to the point that it can no longer supply sufficient power to the controller. You'll need to open up the back of the controller and replace the battery pack, which can be done using this guide.