Controller troubles can be some of the most frustrating issues for console gamers. If your wireless Xbox controller keeps disconnecting, it’s not always obvious what the reason is. In this article, we’ll help you identify and fix the problem for good.
Xbox One Controller Disconnecting Issue
It’s not always obvious why your controller is disconnecting from your console. For this reason, it’s best to start with the most common fixes, to see whether they rectify the issue. Here are the first things you should check:
Fix 1: Check the Batteries
A battery issue is likely the most common reason that the controller is disconnecting. If you are using disposable batteries, try replacing them both, and see if this fixes the problem. If you have a battery pack, give it a recharge.
Useful Tip – The battery life of your controller (if you’re using rechargeable batteries) is displayed on the home screen of your console as a percentage bar.
Fix 2: Turn Your Console Off and On
One of the most classic tech fixes, but no less effective here. Power down your Xbox consoles. You want to shut it completely off (don’t put it in sleep mode). Hold the Xbox button (on front of the console) down until the console shuts off, wait about 30 seconds, and turn the console back on. Often, the disconnecting issue resolves itself.
Fix 3: Reconnect Controller
If your Xbox controller keeps disconnecting, then try reconnecting your controller to the Xbox console is a reliable fix for many issues. With a wired controller, it’s easy, simply unplug the USB cable from the USB hub and plug it back in.
Here’s how to do it with a wireless Xbox One controller:
- Hold down the “connection” button, located on top of the controller, in-between the triggers.
- Hold down the button until the Xbox button on the controller flashes, and eventually stays solid. This should indicate that your controller is connected.
- Test out your controller to see whether it stays connected.
Fix 4: Update Your Controller 
Image From Microsoft
You may not know it, but your controller has its own set of controller firmware that needs to work with the Xbox console. If this controller firmware is out of date, it may be disconnecting, and you’ll need to update your controller firmware to proceed. Here’s how you do it:
- Hardwire your controller to your console by plugging it in with a USB port. Make sure you are signed in to Xbox Live on your console.
- Press the “Menu” button on your controller (the one with three horizontal lines).
- Select Settings ???? Devices and Accessories, and you’ll see a list of controllers pop up. Select the controller that is having the issue, and click on Update ???? Continue.
- From there, your controller should update, and the issue will hopefully be resolved. If your controller is already fully updated, then you’ll get a “No Updates Needed” notification, and you’ll have to try one of the other options on this list.
Fix 5: Are You Too Far Away?
You might be too far away from your Xbox console. Wireless controllers only have a certain range, which is also determined by anything between you and the console. Move closer, and try to reconnect your controller.
Fix 6: Replace Your Controller
Sometimes, your controller is just faulty. Whether it is defective, too worn down, or has stopped working, it’s an unfortunate issue that happens with electronics. If this is the case, you may need to try a new controller or replace your existing one. If it’s a new device, see if it’s covered under warranty, or under the return policy of the store, it was purchased.
- Experience the modernized design of the Xbox Wireless Controller in Carbon Black, featuring sculpted surfaces and refined geometry for enhanced comfort and effortless control during gameplay with battery usage up to 40 hours.
The Bottom Line – Why Does My Xbox Controller Keep Disconnecting?
Xbox controllers are (unfortunately) no stranger to connection issues. It can be an extremely frustrating problem, for what seems like such a simple product.
Most of the time, it is a relatively simple fix, but the difficulty is knowing what is causing the issue. That’s why it’s probably easiest to try all of the above methods, and see which fixes the issue. None of the solutions take very long, so you may as well keep trying until you find a fix!
If you are having problems with your Playstation 4 Controller we have a great article “How To Fix PS4 Controller Red Light Issue.”
Conclusion
Thanks for reading our troubleshooting guide to Xbox controllers disconnecting. It’s an all-too-common problem that can be frustrating to diagnose. Also, check the Microsoft Controller Guide to find the solution and get back to gaming!
