Ensuring that your Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S controllers are updated to the latest firmware is a great way to ensure your controller's performance and iron out any potential problems you may be experiencing.

If you have ever wondered how to update your Xbox controller, we can help.

How to Update Your Xbox Controller

Aside from the original version, every Xbox One and Series X|S controller can be updated wirelessly.

A quick and easy way to check whether your controller can be updated wirelessly is to check the controller for a 3.5mm port on its base. If your controller has this port, it can be updated wirelessly.

To update your controller wirelessly:

  • Press the Xbox button to open the guide and navigate using the Right Bumper until you find the Profile & system tab.
  • From the Profile & system tab, select Settings.
  • Navigate down the left-hand side sub-menus until you reach Devices & connections and select Accessories.
  • You will then see each currently in-use controller, highlight the controller you want to update, and select the ellipses symbol, shown as "".
  • If the next screen's first option is Update, then simply select that option and your controller will be updated to the latest firmware, otherwise, your controller is already up-to-date.

With the above steps, you should now be able to update an Xbox One or Series X|S controller wirelessly. But what if you have an original controller with no 3.5mm port?

Other Ways to Update Your Xbox Controller

If your Xbox controller doesn't have a 3.5mm port, and can't be updated wirelessly, then you will need to connect your controller to your console via a USB cable to update it.

To connect your Xbox controller to your Xbox console you will need to find your console's USB port:

  • For Series X consoles, the USB port is directly below the Pair button.
  • For Series S Consoles, the USB port is on the front-left, next to the Pair button.
  • For Xbox One X and One S consoles, the USB port is directly below the Power button.
  • For the original Xbox One, the USB port is to the left of the disc drive, on the console's side.

Once you have the USB cable plugged into your console, ensure the cable is also connected to your controller via the port on top of the controller and your console should attempt to update the controller automatically.

If not, you can follow the above wireless controller steps to navigate to Accessories to trigger the update automatically.

A top down photo of an Xbox Series X controller with a yellow background

If you are still having trouble updating your Xbox controller, it may be worth reconnecting and syncing your controller to your Xbox console. This will ensure your console is actually able to connect to your controller.

Ensure Your Xbox Experience Is Always Up-to-Date

Maintaining the quality of your Xbox controller and experience is always important. Keeping your controller up-to-date and on the latest firmware will help alleviate any potential problems you may have with your controller.

Accessories like stands chargers and holders, however, can help supplement your Xbox controller experience even further, and improve your overall gaming experience.