Xbox Controller Keeps Disconnecting Issue: Here Is How to Fix It

You can not talk about video gaming without talking about the Xbox series, right? Because it is just that good! Introduced in 2001, it is a gaming brand owned by tech giant Microsoft. Many people own an Xbox and play video games on it on a routine basis. One can’t blame them for being enthralled by the Xbox’s vast gaming potential. Some gamers prefer to use their Xbox or PlayStation 4 controllers instead of a mouse and keyboard to play on their computers. While these machines perform admirably on consoles, they frequently purchase points when used on a computer. But many gamers have started to face one inconvenience, the “Xbox controller keeps disconnecting!” Their controller randomly disconnects and this ruins the gaming experience a lot. It can even happen on a Windows PC because the controller is compatible with it.

Many Xbox and PC gamers have complained about their controllers disconnecting frequently and have asked for improvements.

We’ll provide you with solutions and reasons in this article about the “Xbox controller keeps disconnecting” issue. Before that, we have to know about the possible causes due to which the Xbox controller keeps disconnecting. Let’s look at some of the reasons.

Xbox Controller Keeps Disconnecting Issue: Possible Causes

When your Xbox controller keeps disconnecting during gameplay, it can be quite irritating. The disturbance may even lead to losing a game that you were winning. So you’re annoyed, and you’re confused as to why your controller keeps disconnecting. Here are some common causes for it:

1. Proximity issue

In controllers, specifically the Bluetooth ones the connection is wireless, and thus the right distance between the console and controller matters. If by any chance the controller goes more than a certain distance away from the console, the connection is lost.

2. Discharged Batteries

If the battery level of the controller is low or is completely drained, it loses its connection with the console. The battery level of the controller is shown on the PC, laptop, or TV screen when the controller is connected to the console.

3. Obsolete Firmware of the Controller

Sometimes the Xbox controller keeps disconnecting due to the obsoletion of its firmware. You might have to update your controller firmware if this is the issue.

4. GPU Driver Outdated

This problem occurs with the players who use the Xbox on their PC and laptops. If it’s been a while since you updated your GPU (Graphics processing units) driver, you should do so immediately. Because Xbox controllers are frequently updated, your laptop/PC will need to have all of the latest firmware to ensure successful function.

How to Fix Xbox Controller Keeps Disconnecting?

You can try several various methods to keep your Xbox controller from disconnecting throughout your game. Below is a list of possible actions.

1. Power Cycling the Console

Sometimes, the issue might not be in the controller but in the console itself. You can power cycle your console to resolve this. Follow the steps below:

1. Hold the power button (Xbox button) for 10-15 seconds to power off your console.

2. Wait for 20-30 seconds before turning it on again.

3. Press the Xbox button again and turn the console on.

4. Reconnect your Xbox controller to the console after it has been power cycled to see if the problem has been repaired.

The same can be done with a desktop by shutting it off, taking a few seconds, and then restarting it.

2. Reconnecting the Controller

Try unplugging and rejoining your Xbox controller to see if that fixes the problem. When using wired controllers, poor connections or damaged wires might cause frequent disconnection. 

1. For Wired Controller

1. Detach your Xbox controller out from the console and wait 3-4  minutes.
2. After that, connect the controller back into the Xbox via the USB port to see if it starts working again.

2. For the Wireless Controller 

1. With Xbox

1. Hold down the button on the Xbox that indicates the wireless controller connection until the light turns off.
2. Wait a few minutes and then hold the same key until the light turns on again, showing that the controller is connected.

2. With PC/Laptop

1. Go to Bluetooth and Devices in Settings.
2. In the paired device list, look for the Xbox Controller.
3. Remove the menu by clicking on it.
4. You’ll see that the controller’s guidance button begins to flicker.
5. On the controller, tap the Pair button.
6. Select one of the choices under Add/Connect a Bluetooth device on the PC.
7. The controller should appear in the list. To pair and add, click.

3. Replace the Batteries of the Controller

If your controller’s batteries are getting low, it will be disconnected. When the battery capacity falls below a particular threshold, the Xbox controller disconnects from time to time to alert the user that it is time to charge.

Therefore, if your Xbox controller keeps disconnecting, check the battery levels on the indicator on your console’s home screen, Xbox Game Bar, or the Bluetooth device list on your PC. Recharge the battery if the power is indeed low. If the battery levels do not increase after charging, the controller’s battery may be destroyed. Replace your Xbox controller’s batteries and try again.

4. Readjusting the Position of the Controller

The repeated disconnecting could be due to the controller’s positioning. If you’re using the controller from away, you should get closer to the console and play. Although the wireless controller allows and works from a distance, a considerable distance from the Xbox may cause the controller to lose connection.

The simplest thing to do here is simply move closer to the console and see if it reconnects. Confirm the range of the controller’s connectivity and remain in that range. Another thing to keep in mind is that the controller should face the device’s front. Take a look at how the console is set up and make any necessary adjustments.

5. Update the Firmware of the Controller

The Xbox controller firmware is updated regularly. As a result, it would be ideal if you kept up with them. If you have an Xbox and are having problems, it could be due to the controller’s outdated systems. You’ll need to upgrade the firmware in this instance. The following steps will guide you to update in case your Xbox controller keeps disconnecting:

1. Connect the console and the controller using a USB.
2. By pressing the Menu button, open the guide screen.
3. Go to Device and Accessories: Settings>>Device and Accessories.
4. Select “Problematic Controller” and “Update” from the drop-down menu.

The system will alert you that no update is required if the controller firmware is not obsolete. The update will commence if this is not the case. Hold on until the update is finished. Reconnect to the controller and see if the problem has been solved.

Also Read: How to Disable Geforce Experience?

Final Words

Gaming is one such form of entertainment that can be fully enjoyed or if correctly said experienced when played uninterrupted. Interruptions like this of the Xbox controller getting disconnected can take away that experience from one player.

That is why through this article we tried our best to let you know the causes and possible solutions which can help you in case your Xbox controller keeps disconnecting.