How To Fix Game Controller Won’t Work On Your Windows PC?

It might not always be easy to play games on your Windows PC if you want to use a controller. Sometimes, your Windows 10/11 computer might not be able to recognize the game controller or recognize its inputs. Outdated or faulty controller driver can also be a culprit. In case, the game settings are not compatible with the controller, you may face issues while playing with controller.

No, you don’t need to buy a new controller, so don’t worry. The following method sshould allow your controller to function properly once again on Windows.

Also Read: Xbox 360 Controller Driver Not Working On Windows 10 (Fixed)

Don’t Let a Faulty Game Controller Ruin Your Gaming Experience: Here’s How to Fix It on Your Windows 11/10  PC

Method 1: Verify Your Controller Is Recognized by Windows

First & the foremost, determine whether Windows recognizes your controller or not. You must accomplish it by opening Windows’ Game Controller Settings. This is how to go about it.

Step 1: To launch the Run dialog box, press Win + R.

Step 2: Entering joy.cpl after typing it in the box.

Step 3: Check your controller’s status in the Game Controllers panel.

Step 4: You might be having a connectivity issue if your controller does not appear in the Game Controllers window or if the status does not read OK.

Also Read: 10 Best RGB Controller Software For Windows PC

Method 2: Reconnect the Controller After Disconnecting it

It’s a good idea to unplug and reconnect any external devices, such as controllers, that are giving you problems when you’re playing. Although it can seem like a straightforward fix, most of the times it works. If the controller is wired, try connecting it to another USB port. Make sure the wireless controller has enough battery life. Try unpairing and re-pairing it if it does.

Also Read: Fix – PS4 Audio Not Working When PS4 controller is Connected to PC

Method 3: Check For Hardware Alterations

If disconnecting and replugging the controller doesn’t work, use Device Manager to check for hardware modifications. Follow these steps to do so:

Step 1: Device Manager can be chosen from a list by performing a right-click on the Start icon.

Step 2: Select Scan for hardware changes by performing a right-click anywhere on an empty area of the Device Manager window.

Step 3: Your controller should then show up in the Device Manager window and function as intended after that.

Also Read: Google’s Stadia Controller Will Finally Work Wirelessly With Your Computer

Method 4: Start The Window Troubleshooters

Run the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter if Windows recognizes your gaming controller but it won’t function. This program will make an effort to resolve any frequent issues and enable Windows to recognize your game controller. Follow these steps to launch the Hardware and Devices troubleshooter:

Step 1: To launch the Run dialog box, press Win + R.

Step 2: Enter the command msdt.exe -id DeviceDiagnostic into the box.

Step 3: Click Advanced in the Hardware and Devices pane.

Step 4: Click the Next button after selecting the Automatically Apply Repairs checkbox.

Step 5: Let the troubleshooter identify and resolve any problems.

Step 6: Your controller should now function properly on Windows after that.

Step 7: Run the Bluetooth troubleshooter as well if you’re having issues with a wireless controller on Windows.

Also Read: How To Connect Xbox 360 Controller To PC Wired & Wirelessly

Method 5: Reinstall Or Update The Controller’s Driver

If the drivers are out-of-date, your controller can also not function properly under Windows. If so, upgrading the troublesome driver should assist in resolving the problem. We suggest using Advanced Driver Updater to update your drivers. Here are the steps:

Step 1: Download and install Advanced Driver Updater by clicking the link below.

Step 2: Open the program, then click Start Scan Now.

Step 3: After the scanning procedure, your screen will show a list of outdated drivers.

Step 4: After choosing the Update option next to Graphics Driver, wait for the process to complete.

Step 5: Restart the computer, and after that, make sure the issue has been resolved.

Also Read: 8 Best VR Games For Oculus, PC & PlayStation To Enjoy In 2023

Method 6: Firmware Update for Controllers

Maintaining the most recent software on your controller might help you stay clear of any compatibility problems. If none of the aforementioned suggestions work, open the app provided by the manufacturer of your controller and install any updates that are pending. Depending on the controller model you own and the manufacturer, this step may differ. For more information, consult your manufacturer’s manual or the online support service.

Also Read: How To Connect PS4 Controller On PC: Wired and Wirelessly?

The Final Word On How To Fix Game Controller Won’t Work On Your Windows PC?

One of the aforementioned solutions should make your controller functional again unless it is broken or defective. However, it may be a good idea to use the calibrating feature of the built-in Windows application if you discover that your controller’s performance is lacking in accuracy or responsiveness.

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