The Steam Deck is a powerful handheld gaming device with an in-built controller, allowing players to enjoy their favorite games on the go. However, if you are at home, you may want to play on your TV or a big monitor.
To achieve this, you can connect your Steam Deck to a TV using a dock station. In this case, you require an external controller, such as an Xbox controller.
This guide explains how to pair an Xbox controller with your Steam Deck and troubleshoot some common issues that can arise during the pairing process.
Also check how to connect your Xbox controller to the Nintendo Switch.
How to Connect Xbox Controller to Steam Deck
While wired controllers work by plugging in a USB cable to the dock station, connecting wireless Bluetooth controllers requires some extra configuration.
Here are the steps to connect your Xbox controller to a Steam deck:
Step 1: Enable Your Steam Deck’s Bluetooth
Press the Steam button in the bottom-left corner to access the main menu. Then, navigate to “Settings”, select “Bluetooth”, and toggle it to on.
Step 2: Activate “Pairing” Mode on the Xbox Controller
Press the Xbox button to turn on your Xbox controller. Then press and hold the pair button (located on the top of the controller near the USB port) until the Xbox button starts flashing rapidly, indicating it is in pairing mode.
Step 3: Select “Xbox Wireless Controller” in the “Available to Pair” List
Once successfully connected, the Xbox button will stop flashing and remain solid.
And that’s it! Now, you can experience your favorite games on a larger screen!
Related Post: How to Play Roblox Games on Steam Deck
Xbox Controller Not Connecting to Steam Deck [Troubleshooting Guide]
If you wonder why your Xbox controller isn’t connecting properly to your Steam Deck, here are some common reasons and solutions:
- Your Xbox Controller Doesn’t Support Bluetooth.
Some older Xbox controllers don’t have Bluetooth capabilities, so they won’t work wirelessly. If your controller is from an older Xbox generation (like the Xbox 360 or early Xbox One models), consider using a wired connection or upgrading to a newer model.
If you own an Xbox 360 controller, you can use a Wireless Gaming Receiver to pair it with the Steam Deck. Check how to do it in the Xbox Support. - Your Xbox Controller Is Paired to Another Device.
Your Xbox controller won’t appear on the Steam Deck’s Bluetooth list if paired to another device (such as an Xbox console or PC). Disconnect it from other devices by holding the pair button until the light flashes, then try pairing again. - The Xbox Controller’s Firmware Needs to Be Updated.
If your controller’s firmware is outdated, it may not function properly with the Steam Deck. To update it, download the Xbox Accessories App on a Windows PC. Connect the controller via USB and install the latest firmware.
Xbox Support has a tutorial on how to use the Xbox Accessories App. - Low Battery.
A low battery can interfere with Bluetooth connectivity. Ensure your controller has enough charge, or replace the batteries before connecting. - Steam Deck Glitch.
Sometimes, rebooting your device resolves connection problems. Restart your Steam Deck and try connecting the controller again.
If you still encounter problems connecting your Xbox controller to the Steam deck, check the official troubleshooting guide for Bluetooth connectivity.
Why Is Your Steam Deck Xbox Controller Flashing?
Your Xbox controller keeps flashing even when it appears on your Steam Deck’s Bluetooth list because it needs a firmware update. This is a common issue on Xbox controllers with old firmware versions. Updating to a newer one makes it compatible with the Steam Deck.
To update your controller, connect your controller to a Windows PC using a USB cable and open the Xbox Accessories app. Install any available firmware updates.
Next, go to your Steam Deck’s Bluetooth settings and delete the existing “Xbox Wireless Controller” entry. Remove and put back the batteries of your controller. Finally, try to pair again.
If the issue persists, try pairing the controller in Desktop Mode on your Steam Deck. Some users have reported that this is especially useful if your Steam Deck is booting in 2.4 GHz mode.
Level Up Your Steam Deck Experience
Connecting an Xbox controller to your Steam Deck enhances the gaming experience, especially when playing on a larger screen. By following the steps in this article, you should be able to enjoy seamless gaming with your Xbox controller on the Steam Deck.
While the setup process is generally straightforward, occasional issues can arise. Ensuring your controller is updated, adequately charged, and unpaired from other devices will help prevent connectivity problems.
