Local multiplayer gaming used to be a staple of the console experience. Friends would gather around the TV, connect several controllers, and spend hours playing together. While couch co-op has become less common, games such as Minecraft and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge still provide good reasons to get everyone together for a shared session.
The problem is that modern consoles often include just one controller in the box. Buying additional gamepads can quickly become expensive, especially when you only need them occasionally.
Fortunately, Xbox offers a useful solution for players who already own older accessories. Xbox One controllers are compatible with Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S consoles, allowing you to reuse your existing hardware instead of buying another controller.
Does an Xbox One Controller Work on Xbox Series X/S?
Yes. Xbox One controllers work with Xbox Series X/S consoles, making them a convenient option for local multiplayer and anyone who already owns an older Xbox gamepad.
Microsoft has continued its focus on compatibility across generations. The company’s backward-compatibility approach is not limited to games. Several Xbox One accessories can also be used with the newer Xbox Series hardware.
This includes the standard Xbox One controller as well as the Xbox Elite Controller and Xbox Adaptive Controller.
The compatibility extends across Xbox Series games, meaning you can use an Xbox One controller even when playing titles designed for the newer generation.
The compatibility works in the opposite direction as well. Xbox Series controllers can be used with Xbox One consoles, including the controller’s Share button functionality.
How to Connect an Xbox One Controller to Xbox Series X/S
Pairing an Xbox One controller with an Xbox Series X or Series S is straightforward. The consoles use the same general wireless pairing process, so connecting an older controller is similar to pairing a newer Xbox gamepad.
Follow these steps:
- Turn on your Xbox Series X/S console.
- Press the Xbox button on your Xbox One controller to turn it on.
- Press the pairing button on the console. On the Xbox Series X/S, it is located on the front of the system near the USB port.
- Press and hold the sync button on the top of the Xbox One controller.
- Wait for the Xbox button on the controller to stop flashing and remain illuminated.
Once the lights remain steady, the controller should be paired with the console.
Can You Use a Cable Instead?
Yes. If you prefer a wired connection, you can connect the Xbox One controller directly to the Xbox Series X/S using a USB cable through the console’s front USB port.
This can also be useful if you are having trouble pairing the controller wirelessly.
Do Xbox One Accessories Work With Xbox Series Controllers?
Xbox One controllers include a port on the bottom that can be used for accessories such as Chatpads and official Xbox headsets.
Microsoft retained this connection on Xbox Series controllers, allowing compatible accessories from the previous generation to continue working with newer hardware.
As a result, many official Xbox One controller accessories can also be used with Xbox Series controllers.
Can You Use an Xbox 360 Controller on Xbox Series X/S?
No. The compatibility available between Xbox One and Xbox Series hardware does not extend to Xbox 360 controllers.
Likewise, controllers from the original Xbox are not compatible with Xbox Series X/S consoles.
The source does not provide a definitive explanation for this limitation, although differences in connectivity technology may be a factor.
Xbox Controller Compatibility
| Controller or Accessory | Xbox Series X/S |
|---|---|
| Xbox One controller | Compatible |
| Xbox Elite Controller | Compatible |
| Xbox Adaptive Controller | Compatible |
| Xbox Series controller | Compatible |
| Xbox One accessories | Generally compatible with supported Xbox Series controllers |
| Xbox 360 controller | Not compatible |
| Original Xbox controller | Not compatible |
If you own an Xbox One controller, there is no need to leave it unused after moving to an Xbox Series X or Series S. Microsoft supports the older gamepad on its current consoles, making it a practical way to add another controller without purchasing a new one.
The same compatibility also covers the Xbox Elite Controller and Xbox Adaptive Controller, while several official Xbox One accessories can continue to be used with newer Xbox controllers.
However, Xbox 360 and original Xbox controllers are not supported on Xbox Series consoles. For local multiplayer, an Xbox One controller remains a useful option for expanding your setup without buying another current-generation gamepad.
