Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we get a small commission if you make a purchase through our links, at no cost to you. For more information, please visit our Disclaimer Page.
The Xbox 360 is older than the Xbox One. One thing you need to know about Xbox is that there’s no forward compatibility in terms of hardware. So, the Xbox 360 controller will not work directly on the Xbox One. However, there’s a workaround that allows you to connect the controller to your Xbox One.
(Attribution: ©tyukin/123RF.COM)
Table of Contents
What controllers are compatible with Xbox One?
The Xbox One gaming console is, no doubt, one of the best-selling products created by Microsoft. Although this device was introduced in November 2013, it’s still a worthy console, as it offers gaming at 1080p. Furthermore, the Xbox One gaming console has a mature library of games; this is another reason to buy it.
The Xbox One console is compatible with a lot of gaming hardware accessories, including controllers and the play & charge kit.
Speaking of controllers; one of the best devices that are compatible with the Xbox One console is the Xbox Elite Wireless controller Series 2. Alert from that, there are several other third-party controllers out there that’ll work perfectly with your Xbox One. Let’s have a quick look at some of them below:
Xbox Elite Wireless controller Series 2
The Xbox Elite Wireless controller Series 2 is, arguably, the best controller that you can consider buying for your Xbox One gaming console. Of course, there are a couple of reasons why I’m recommending this device to you.
One of them is that it’s wildly customizable and comes with a built-in battery. Apart from that, the Xbox Elite Wireless controller Series 2 also features modular thumbsticks and D-pad.
As with other devices out there, the Xbox Elite Wireless controller Series 2 has its weaknesses. One of them is that it’s not as affordable as other Xbox One controllers out there. Apart from that, the controller is not readily available; if you’re fortunate to find one, just go for it. You can check here to learn more about this controller, including its price and availability.
PowerA Enhanced wired controller
Powers, founded in 2010, is an American video game peripheral manufacturer that has its headquarters located in Woodinville, Washington.
Today, the company has several different lines of controllers for Xbox, Nintendo, and PlayStation. For instance, the PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller is the company’s product that’s perfect for the Xbox One gaming console.
The PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller packs a host of excellent features. First, it’s very cheap when you compare it to the official Xbox One game controller. Apart from that, the controller also packs advanced gaming buttons.
Interestingly, this controller is approved by Microsoft for Xbox One and is powered by Dual Rumble Motors. The only drawback of the controller is that it comes with a simple style in terms of design.
Razer Wolverine Ultimate
Razer Inc. is a Singaporean-American multinational technology company that has been around for more than two decades. To be precise, the company was founded in 1998 and has its headquarters located in Singapore and Irvine, California, United States. The Razer Wolverine Ultimate is, no doubt, the best Xbox One controller from this company.
One of the factors that make the Razer Wolverine Ultimate controllers a good choice for you is the fact that they come with super responsive face buttons. Apart from that, the controllers also pack 6 additional mappable buttons and a great grip design.
However, you might want to avoid this product if you’re the type that likes wireless controllers. That’s so because the Razer Wolverine Ultimate controllers only require a wired connection.
Xbox One Wireless Controller
If you want to purchase a standard Xbox One controller, the Xbox One Wireless Controller is the best option. One of the reasons this item is ideal for you is that it has a timeless design. Apart from that, the controller also comes with super responsive face and shoulder buttons.
That’s not all; the Xbox One Wireless Controller also packs pleasing button feedback and a true D-pad. The only setback of this controller, however, is that you need to get AA batteries and charging packs.
Xbox Design Lab Controller
The Xbox Design Lab Controller is certainly not the best gaming controller that you can consider buying for your Xbox One. However, the device is an ideal one because it packs tons of great features.
With this controller, you’ll be able to create your preferred controller. Interestingly, this will include rubberized grips, textured triggers, custom engravings, and metallic accents. That said, you can check here to learn more about this controller, including its price and availability.
Hyperkin Duke
If you’re looking for the best nostalgia-fuelled controller for your Xbox One, look no further. The Hyperkin Duke controller is certainly what you’re searching for. This controller comes with vibration feedback, precision triggers, as well as bumpers.
The only issue, however, with the Hyperkin Duke controller is that it’s mostly ideal for archaic players. If you’re a modern player, you might not enjoy this controller.
Can you use the Xbox 360 controller on your Xbox One?
If you’re referring to a direct connection of the Xbox 360 controller to the Xbox One gaming console, the answer to this question is no.
As previously mentioned, Microsoft has a principle when it comes to releasing its Xbox devices. The company doesn’t give room for “forward compatibility” when it comes to its hardware devices.
Here’s what that means; as you already know, the Xbox 360 is older than the Xbox One console. Since that’s the case, none of the Xbox 360 hardware components, including controllers, is supported by the Xbox One. As such, it’s safe to say that you can’t use the Xbox 360 controller directly with your Xbox One gaming console.
What about indirect connection?
Yes, there’s a workaround that allows you to connect the Xbox 360 controller to your Xbox One console. However, this is an indirect approach that requires using a Windows computer.
Here’s how to connect an Xbox 360 controller to your Xbox One
As you now know, it’s very possible to connect an Xbox 360 controller to your Xbox One gaming console. To do that, you’ll need to use a Windows computer, according to wikiHow. After that, you can follow the simple and direct steps below to connect the hardware device to your Xbox One.
- First, you need to connect the Xbox 360 controller to your Windows computer. Of course, for this connection to be possible, you need a wired Xbox 360 controller. You can also use a wireless controller if it has a wireless adapter. That said, connect the two devices, making sure they’re connected in a similar way to your home network.
- Next, you need to power on your Xbox One gaming console. After that, you have to open the Xbox app on your Windows PC. To make it easy for you, the app has a green icon with the Xbox logo and is usually located in the Start menu, under the “Play and explore” option.
- After opening the Xbox app on your PC, you need to sign in with the same account you’re using with your Xbox One.
- After signing in, all you need is to click “Connection”. Since you have both devices connected to the same home network, your Xbox One will be detected.
- Next, click “Stream“, to enable your Xbox One stream to your Windows computer. If that’s successful, you’ll be able to use the Xbox 360 controller with your Xbox One gaming console.
That’s all it takes to get your Xbox 360 controller to operate with your Xbox One system in a roundabout way. Also, keep in mind that you will not be able to connect the controller directly to the console.
If you want to connect directly, I recommend either the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 or the regular Xbox One Wireless Controller.
