Share this article
Improve this guide
Fix: Xbox Controller Blinking When Plugged Into PC
Recharging or re-pairing are the easiest fixes!
5 min. read
Updated onJanuary 29, 2024
updated onJanuary 29, 2024
Share this article
Improve this guide
Read our disclosure page to find out how can you help Windows Report sustain the editorial teamRead more
Xbox controllers are one of the most popular wireless devices. Remember, they are not entirely error-proof, but the likelihood of facing issues is bleak. Yet, a few users reported that their Xbox controller keeps blinking when plugged into a PC.
The problem could lie with the PC, device connection, or the Xbox wireless controller. The underlying causes are endless, but each has a definite solution. Identify and execute the former, and you are good to go!
Why is my Xbox controller blinking when wired to the PC?
How do I fix my Xbox controller if it’s blinking when wired to the PC?
Before we start with the slightly complex solutions, try these quick ones first:
If none work, head to the fixes listed next.
1. Update the controller firmware
This also helps if theXbox Elite controller lags on the PC.
2. Update Windows
3. Reinstall the controller driver
When theXbox controller is not workingand simply blinking when plugged into the PC, it could be the corrupt driver to blame. If you see a yellow exclamation mark next to the controller icon in theDevice Manager, reinstalling the driver will do the trick!
4. Revert firmware
5. Contact Xbox Support
When nothing else worked, it’s likely a hardware-related problem or one with the firmware that hasn’t been patched yet. And in this case, it’s best that youcontact Xbox Support.
They will be able to provide a solution or a definite timeline as to when the problem will be resolved. Or they may ask you to replace the controller in case of hardware malfunction. This way, you will get rid of any future issues as well.
One of these solutions should have helped fix things if the Xbox controller was blinking when plugged into the PC. Remember, it’s usually a common issue, like when theXbox controller USB device is not recognized, often related to firmware or driver.
For those of you running the previous iteration, find out how toset up an Xbox controller on Windows 10. And don’t hesitate to also check out our guide onimproving Xbox Elite controller input response.
If you have any queries or want to share which fix did the trick, comment below.
More about the topics:Controller issues,xbox
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
User forum
0 messages
Sort by:LatestOldestMost Votes
Comment*
Name*
Email*
Commenting as.Not you?
Save information for future comments
Comment
Δ
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.