The Xbox One and Xbox 360 controllers have a very similar design and button mapping. These similarity raises the question, “Can you use an Xbox One controller on the Xbox 360?”
We’ll answer this question in this article and discuss the features of the Xbox One controller that make it similar to that of the Xbox 360.
What Makes the Xbox One and Xbox 360 Controllers Similar?
The Xbox One and Xbox 360 controllers share similarities in their face buttons’ layout. Both controllers also have clickable analog sticks, two analog triggers, shoulder buttons, and a directional pad.
Despite the similarities in the controllers’ design, there are subtle differences that make each of them distinct.
What Are the Differences Between the Xbox One and Xbox 360 Controllers?
These are the main differences between Xbox One and Xbox 360 controllers:
- Joystick Design.
The Xbox One features thinner and straighter joysticks with a micro-textured design, providing users with a better grip and reducing slippage. On the Xbox 360, the joysticks are bulky and slightly curved. - USB Port.
The top of the Xbox One contains a micro USB port for charging your controller. Whereas the Xbox 360 has a charge and plate cable connection slot. - Positions of the Buttons.
The four face buttons on Xbox One are closer together than on Xbox 360. Additionally, Microsoft added the “View” and “Menu” buttons, replacing the “Back” and “Start” buttons found on the initial Xbox controllers.
To pair the Xbox controller with your Android device, go to “Settings > Connection > Bluetooth > Pair New Devices“.
Find out why your Xbox One controller keeps disconnecting from your PC.
Can You Use an Xbox One Controller With Xbox 360?
No, you can’t use the Xbox One controller with the Xbox 360 because they have incompatible technology and hardware. Xbox One controllers run on a wireless protocol that the Xbox 360 can’t use, and the Xbox 360 has different software that can’t recognize an Xbox One controller.
The Xbox 360 uses a proprietary 2.4 GHz protocol, while the Xbox One controller uses the Gaming Input Protocol. The latter protocol is higher than the Xbox 360’s, thus affecting compatibility between the two consoles.
Xbox One runs on an operating system called OneCore, which is based on Windows 10. Meanwhile, the Xbox 360’s OS is a modified version of Windows 2000. This difference in the operating system is another factor that prevents the Xbox One controller from connecting with the Xbox 360.
If you want to make mobile gaming better, here’s how you can connect your Xbox controller to your phone.
Why Won’t the Xbox One Controller Work on the Xbox 360?
One of the main reasons the Xbox One controller won’t work on Xbox 360 is that the Xbox 360 is a very old console. Microsoft has made numerous improvements to the Xbox consoles, and these enhancements are not available in older Xbox versions.
Here’s an in-depth look at the reasons why an Xbox One controller can’t work with Xbox 360:
- Difference in USB Connection.
The Xbox 360’s USB port is designed for gaming, allowing the use of wired controllers and storage of data on flash drives. Meanwhile, Xbox One consoles utilize it as both a charging port and a firmware update system. - Controller Design.
The Xbox One and Xbox 360 controllers have distinct button layouts, which can lead to compatibility issues. Different triggers, bumpers, and button placements also affect the controllers’ performance. - Wireless Protocol.
The Xbox One controllers utilize Xbox Wireless, enabling gamers to connect accessories wirelessly. It also reduces latency and improves wireless range. The Xbox 360 uses a proprietary 2.4 GHz wireless protocol exclusive to the console.
In 2015, Microsoft introduced backward compatibility to enable players to use games and accessories from Xbox One on newer consoles. Still, the difference in the protocols used by the said Xbox consoles makes it impossible to use an Xbox One controller on an Xbox 360.
What Controllers Can You Use With the Xbox 360?
These are some of the third-party controllers that are compatible with the Xbox 360:
- Logitech Gamepad F310.
It features responsive buttons and a comfortable design, making it easy to control. This controller uses a plug-and-play USB connection. - HORI Xbox 360 Gem Pad EX.
This controller has more of a minimalist design. It is compatible with both the X360 console and PC. It also features vibration sensation and has a sensitive adjustment switch. - PDP Afterglow Wired Controller.
It is a stylish transparent controller with LED lights, which give it an edge. The PDP controller has integrated a communicator port. It is also officially licensed for Xbox 360. - Etpark X-Box 360 Controller.
This controller has an advanced design with an 8-way steering panel. It is wired and comes with adjustable vibration feedback and double-precision rotation. - Ainoibo Wired Controller.
It features high sensitivity and fast response, improving overall gaming performance. The controller is wired and compatible with Windows 8.1 and 10.
Note! Syncing an Xbox 360 controller to the console is similar regardless of the third-party controller you’re using.
What Are Xbox One Controllers Compatible With?
The Xbox One controller is compatible with Xbox Series X and Series S using backward compatibility. You can also use the controller wirelessly for PC gaming, as it is compatible with Windows 10 and 11. Connecting the controller to Android devices via Bluetooth is also possible.
However, some controller features, like vibration and tension in the triggers, may not work properly due to configuration issues with your Android device. The controllers may also not be compatible with all games.
Learn more about how Xbox One accessories are compatible with Xbox Series X/S from Xbox’s Official Page.
You Can’t Use an Xbox One Controller on the Xbox 360
Using an Xbox One controller on the Xbox 360 is impossible because of the software and hardware differences. However, backward compatibility allows you to use Xbox One controllers on Xbox Series S and X.
Nevertheless, Xbox 360 doesn’t work on Xbox One. If you’ve misplaced or don’t have an Xbox 360 controller, you can purchase third-party controllers compatible with the console.
