Why is My Xbox Controller Blinking? 9 Cost-Effective Tricks

Is your Xbox controller blinking? Xbox controller is a gaming technology used to play games on the console. But if the controller and console are not paired, you might have trouble operating the Xbox controller device. If you wish to get an answer to “Why is my Xbox controller blinking?” Scroll down and learn possible reasons for the blinking or flashing issue of the Xbox controller.  

Remember that the Xbox controller is powered by two AA chargeable batteries and lasts up to 30 hours of battery life. You can connect your Xbox controller to the console with a USB cable.  Low battery is the most common reason that can make your Xbox controller blink or flash. Other possible reasons can make your Xbox controller blink, such as firmware not working correctly, Xbox controller not paired with a console, damaged controller, hardware issues, and many more such possibilities. 

In the post below, I will share reasons for the most trending question, “Why is my Xbox controller blinking?” Also, I have mentioned nine ways to fix the Xbox controller blinking issue. 

Why is My Xbox Controller Blinking? Know Reason

If you ever noticed that the controller light of your Xbox One or the new series Xbox X and S blinks while playing, there might be some issues with the controller. If you see a fast flashing or blinking light on your Xbox controller, your Xbox controller is trying to connect with your PC or a gaming console. But if you notice slow blinking light, it means there is a problem with the battery pack of your Xbox controller. 

Now, let’s see what can cause for the Xbox Controller Blinking or flashing issue. 

1. Your Xbox controller light will start blinking when the battery dies or drains. So, replacing the old battery with the new one is better.
2. If your Xbox controller is not updated with the latest firmware or the recent upgrade is faulty, there is a high chance of facing this issue.
3. There can be minor issues with your Xbox controller syncing, accessories, power supply, or cables. If these problems happen, your Xbox controller light will start blinking.
4. There might be obstacles between the paths. The possibility of interference from other smartphones or Bluetooth devices can cause many problems.
5. Last but not slightest reason behind Xbox Controller Blinking issue can be a broken Xbox controller. If your Xbox controller is damaged or broken, then the light of your Xbox controller will start blinking. 

How to Fix Xbox Controller Blinking Problem? 9 Ways

If your Xbox controller light starts blinking for any of the issues mentioned above, you can relax because I have some easy and effective methods to help you eliminate this issue. 

1. Test the Xbox Controller Batteries

If you notice that your Xbox Controller Blinking slowly and not turning on, then please make sure that the batteries of your Xbox controller are not responsible for the issue.

I suggest you take your Xbox One Play & Charge Kit and put the battery inside your controller. Then, you need to use the bundle charging cord to power it up. Also, you can charge the battery by plugging the charging cable and controller into a USB power button. While charging the battery, the light of the charging cable will blink orange. After the controller is fully charged, it will become white.

You will get a rechargeable battery and a USB cable with the Xbox Series X and S. The batteries of Xbox One might work with the controllers of Xbox Series X., But the charging cable will not work in this case.

There is also another way available. You can try replacing your battery pack with new AA disposable batteries. After replacing the batteries, you need to restart your gaming console. 

The batteries need to be replaced if they fail the below-mentioned steps.

1. When the console is connected via a USB cable and your rechargeable batteries are not charging, it’s time to replace the battery.
2. If the battery causes the issue, then it might be possible that the controller works with AA batteries or different battery packs.
3. Using a cotton swab or a dry cloth, try cleaning the battery contacts on the battery pack. If the issue is still not resolved, then replace the battery. 

2. Re-sync the Xbox Controller

You must note that you can use a wireless Xbox controller with one device at a time. If the controller is already paired with your smartphone or PC, you must pair it again with your gaming console. If your device is busy, re-syncing your controller might take only 2 minutes. Then, you need to wait for a moment before trying again.

If your controllers are not connected properly, they might get disconnected. You should try re-syncing your Xbox controller to the gaming console to solve the connectivity issues. Let’s see how you can re-sync your Xbox console with the controller.

1. To switch on your Xbox gaming console, tap the front Xbox button.
2. Pressing and holding the Xbox button lets you turn on the controller you want to sync. Once it is connected, you will notice a light.
3. Press and release the Pair button of your Xbox-

1. The Pair button is available on the side adjacent to the USB port of the Xbox One.
2. The Xbox Series X and S Pair button is below the power button on the front right side.

4. Push and hold the Pair button until the Xbox button blinks briefly to indicate that the controller is looking for a console. If you notice that your Xbox button stops flashing and remains on continuously, it means your Xbox controller is now connected to the console.  

The issue can also be resolved by disconnecting the controller from other Bluetooth devices like a PC. To disconnect the controller, follow these steps.

1. Open Settings.
2. Go to Devices.
3. Tap on Bluetooth.
4. Select the controller.
5. Now, tap on the Remove Device option.

After disconnecting the controller, wait a few minutes, and reconnect it with your Bluetooth device.  To do so, you must tap the Pair button on your controller. Next, select the controller from your device’s Bluetooth settings and click the Pair button.

3. Reconnect the Cables and Console

Sometimes, you can fix this issue by disconnecting and reconnecting the console. Follow the steps for reconnecting your console.

1. Unplug the network cable of your console. Check if the cable connector and console port are clean and clear. Reconnect the cable again and ensure it clicks perfectly into the place.
2. Disconnect your modem’s network cable or router and check if the socket is dust-free. After reconnecting all the power cords, turn on every networking device.
3. Now, you must check your network connection by heading to Profile & System > Settings > General > Network Settings > Test Network Connection.
4. Rather than connecting the console to the network, connect it directly to the modem to check the functionality of your modem and console. Now, you must reset your internet connection. 

4. Power Cycle the Xbox Controller and Console

Sometimes, power cycling your Xbox controller or console or doing a full power cycle can fix many minor issues. Follow the steps for restarting your controller.

1. To turn off the Xbox controller, press and hold the Xbox button for 5 to 10 seconds. 
2. After a few minutes, press and hold the Xbox button again to turn on the controller.

If your controller faces problems while updating firmware, then the problem is with your console. You can also press and hold the Xbox button for 10 seconds until it turns off to power cycle your Xbox console. Then, try to update your controller again.

5. Check the Firmware Updates

You may be using an incorrect or outdated driver. Hence, your Xbox controller disconnects from your gaming console or your PC. You need to keep your controller up-to-date to improve its efficiency and compatibility. 

1) Wireless Controller Update

1. Click the Xbox key and go to Profile & System > Settings. Select the “Accessories” option from the menu that appears from the “Device and Connections” option. 
2. Tap on the “…” option, and check for the firmware on the page for the wireless Xbox controller. 
3. If you see an “Update” opinion, click on the firmware version and then follow the on-screen instructions.

2) Controller Update Via USB

1. The USB cable to the USB port of your Xbox.

1. You will find a port button near the pair button on the left of the Xbox S Series. 
2. On the Xbox X series, the port button is present at the front. And, in Xbox S One and Xbox X One, the port button is at the power button’s adjacent side. 

2. Now, plug the USB cable into your Xbox controller and keep it connected while updating.

3) Controller Update Via PC

1. Launch the Microsoft Store. 
2. Process to download and install the Xbox Accessories application.
3. Via USB or the Xbox adapter, plug in your Xbox controller.
4. You will get a message related to the update if an update is required.
5. Finally, download and install the update. 

6. Connect the Xbox Controller Via USB Cable

You can wirelessly connect your Xbox Wireless Controller with a gaming console, micro-USB, or USB-C cable. You will need a USB-C cable for an Xbox Series X/S, Xbox Elite Series 2, or Xbox Adaptive Controller. You must need a micro-USB if you are using an Xbox One. 

By plugging one end into your PC and the other into your controller, you can connect your controller to the PC with a micro-USB cable. The drivers for your Xbox controllers are automatically downloaded and installed when you connect an Xbox Wireless Controller to a PC.

You can try a different cable if the controller fails to respond. Sometimes your Windows device might not recognize your Xbox controller after you wake it up from sleep. Then, press the Xbox button on your controller and then unplug and replug it.

7. Cool Down the Console and Power Supply

Sometimes, the vents in your console become hot. In this case, you need to cool down the interior. Sometimes overheating can cause hardware problems and damage to your controller. So, you must ensure that your Xbox console and power supply are appropriately ventilated.

You might remove some items that obstruct the vents. You must place your Xbox console where the airflow is good and not too hot. Do not keep anything around the console, and keep it’s surrounding clear. 

8. Revert the Firmware on the Controller

If you face any trouble connecting your controller to a non-Xbov Bluetooth device, you can revert the controller firmware. You might not know that the recent update to the firmware of the Xbox controller makes it harder for older devices to connect through Bluetooth. 

After updating the controller, if you face Bluetooth issues, roll back to the earlier firmware version. The steps for changing the firmware are as follows-

1. Press the Xbox button on your controller.
2. Go to the Profile & System.
3. Now, choose Xbox Assist.
4. Tap on Get Help.
5. Click on the Console & Accessories button.
6. Under the “Help” menu, select Controller.
7. Select “My controller has connection problems after the last update” by clicking on the option.
8. Now, browse to open the Xbox Accessories application.
9. Finally, check the “Check Controller Firmware” option to see if the issue gets resolved. 

9. Switch to a Different Console or Power Supply

If the above methods cannot resolve your issue, switch to a different console, power supply, or location. You might face issues if your Xbox works or pairs with another console. But, if you try connecting your Xbox controller with another console, and it also does not work, you must switch to another controller. 

You can also unplug the console and all of its accessories. Connect your console and accessories from a different location, like your friend’s house. Now, it’s time to connect your new controller, restart your gaming console, and re-check the internet connection by performing the below-mentioned steps.

1. Go to the Profile & System.
2. Then head to the Settings.
3. Choose General.
4. Now, select Network Settings.
5. Then, test the network connection.

Why is My Xbox Controller Blinking? Check Tutorial

Wrapping Up

If you are wondering, “Why is my Xbox controller blinking,” check the above post for possible reasons. Also, you will find the best possible nine ways to fix blinking or flashing problems. Although, the biggest reason that makes the Xbox controller blink is low battery, so you can try replacing the old batteries with two new AA batteries. If you have tried this, look for other possible solutions mentioned above. 

Are you able to know “Why is my Xbox controller blinking”? If yes, then try the possible solutions mentioned in the above post. Also, remember to share my blog with your friends and family and help them resolve this problem. 

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