It is really a misfortune if your Xbox One controller won’t stay ON or keep disconnecting. This problem leads you to failure if occurs in the middle of the game.
You lose the interest and courage of playing. However, such a malfunctioning controller can be fixed at home.
You need to invest some of your time. This guide promises to get your Xbox One back to work.
How I Fixed Xbox One Controller at Home
Recently, I fixed my cousin’s Xbox One that was turning OFF frequently. My younger cousin was crying as he had lost many games.
He wanted to throw his controller off. But, I comforted him and asked him to give me a chance. Fortunately, a few hacks worked and now his device is working perfectly.
I want to share those troubleshooting tricks with you. Try them patiently and correctly to fix the issue.
1. Disable the Battery Saving Feature
Xbox One consoles from Series X and S have a battery-saving feature. It turns OFF or disconnects the controller after 15 minutes of inactivity.
But, this does not operate while you are playing games. However, it activates when you use your console as a media center.
You can turn OFF this feature by the following method;
- Open the “Guide” menu by pressing the “Xbox” button.
- Choose “Profile & System” and then select “Settings”.
- Next, choose “General” and click on “Power Mode & Start-up”.
- Open the “Power Mode” drop-down menu and deactivate the battery-saving feature.
2. Recharge the Batteries
Frequent disconnections also result from low power. Make sure the batteries of your Xbox One are charged. Go to the “Home” menu by pressing the “Xbox” button on your controller.
Check the battery icon at the top right corner. Connect the power if the battery is low.
In case of replaceable batteries, insert new AA batteries. This should solve the problem.
Likewise, you have to check the battery and power of your console. Make sure the power cable is fine and the power outlet is also working.
3. Check for Interference
Your controller may be turned OFF because of too much distance or interference. Make sure your controller and console are close to each other.
Because Xbox One has a limited wireless range usually 19-28 feet. Moreover, remove any object between the controller and the console.
For example, a laptop, mobile phone, metal shelves/objects, or any other thing may be placed on the way.
These objects can interfere with the signals and connection. Further, take your Xbox out of the entertainment center if you have one.
4. Restart the Device
A simple restart helps in most cases. Just turn ON/OFF your controller. This will help re-establishing the connection strongly. Here is how to do it;
- On your Xbox One controller, press the “Xbox” button. Hold it for 5-10 seconds or until the device turns OFF.
- Wait for 30 seconds before turning it ON. Press the same Xbox button to turn ON the device.
- Repeat the process twice or thrice to get better results.
5. Reboot Your Console
There can be a software glitch in your console. That’s why the controller does not stay ON. So, you should reboot the console.
- On your Xbox console, press and hold the power button for 10 seconds.
- Let it shut down fully. Wait for 30-60 seconds and then turn it ON.
- Try a full shutdown through the controller;
- Open the “Settings” on your console.
- Go to “General” and choose “Power Mode & Startup”.
- Finally, click on “Full Shutdown”.
- Before applying this hack, disconnect all the devices from your console.
6. Disconnect Peripherals
If too many peripheral devices are connected to your console, the controller may not stay ON. A maximum of 8 controllers can be connected to an Xbox One console.
So, disconnect all the controllers for a try and connect only one. Moreover, disconnect other external devices such as headphones, TV, PC, keyboard, mouse, adapters, etc. These devices may be interfering with the connection.
7. Make a Wired Connection
If you have connected the controller and console wirelessly, try the wired connection. This way you can check if the controller has some hardware issue.
Use a USB to micro-USB cable to connect it to the console. The console has 2 USB ports on the front, try each one. But, use the original can compatible data cable.
Clean the connection ports to remove any debris. You have to make sure that the cables are not loosely connected.
Disconnect and reconnect the cable if the issue persists. If your controller stays ON, there is no hardware issue. Otherwise, its hardware needs to be checked and repaired.
8. Install Software Update
The software can be the reason behind this issue. Hence, you should check and install the latest firmware both on your controller or console.
In case, you are using it with the PC, update your PC too. Here is the step-by-step process for updating the device;
Method 1
- Connect your controller to the console using a USB cable. Plug the cable firmly into both devices.
- Further, make sure it is not damaged and working fine.
- Press the “Xbox” button to open the “Home” menu on the controller.
- Click on “Profile & System” and then choose “Settings”.
- Next, select “Devices & Connections” and then “Accessories”.
- Choose your controller and check for the latest firmware version.
- Complete the update process by following the on-screen instructions. It may take 5 or more minutes.
- Do not perform any function while the device is being updated.
Method 2
If it is not working, the controller can be updated by connecting to the PC.
- Connect the controller to your computer using the USB cable or Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows.
- Ensure that your PC is running on the latest version of Windows 10. Otherwise, update the PC first and then proceed further.
- Download the “Xbox Accessories” app on your computer.
- You will see a message on the screen saying “Update Required”.
- Install the update by correctly following the on-screen instructions.
9. Contact Xbox
If none of the remedies work then you should consult Xbox for professional support. Probably, your controller has some hardware defect.
So, the company or an expert mechanic can fix it. The repairing process will be completed within 5-7 working days.
But, I remind you again please do not forget to try each solution mentioned in this guide.
Also, try your controller with a different console or PC if possible. This will help you detect the problematic device.
FAQs Related to Xbox One
I hope you want to learn more about the topic under discussion. Read the following common questions for a deep understanding.
Can I keep my Xbox One turned ON all night?
It is not a good practice to keep your console ON all night. Because it can cause overheating and damage to the hardware. Resultantly, the life of your console will be reduced. So, it is better to turn it OFF when not in use.
What is the newest firmware for Xbox One controller?
First-generation Xbox One controllers have “2.3. 2381.0” as the latest firmware. Revised models (with 3.5 mm jack) use “2.3. 2385.0.” as the latest firmware. While 3.1 is the newest version for Bluetooth-enabled Xbox One S controllers.
Why does my Xbox Elite 2 controller keep disconnecting?
You can fix this issue by trying simple hacks. Unplug the wireless adapter and restart your PC. Now, insert the adapter back and wait a few moments. Refresh or reboot your computer. Also, restart your Elite 2 and connect again.
What is Xbox Instant ON mode?
This mode offers you a convenient user experience. Because when in instant mode, your Xbox One boots up faster. You can resume the games instantly where you paused. You do not have to wait for screen loading and updates. However, it costs you a little more money.
Also read: How to Fix Xbox Elite Controller Won’t Connect to PC
Final Words
I tried a few troubleshooting tricks such as rebooting, updating, and recharging the batteries. Some other solutions are also effective.
Fortunately, these simple hacks fixed my younger cousin’s Xbox One controller that refused to stay ON. Hopefully, these tips will also work for you. Best of luck!
