How to Use an Xbox Series X or Elite Controller With Steam

One of the advantages of playing games through Steam is the built-in controller support. The client will automatically recognize dozens of controllers when you plug them into your computer, and new ones are constantly being added, including new Xbox Series X and Xbox Elite controllers. Steam even supports the Series X Dynamic Rumble Trigger and the extra Xbox Elite buttons and paddles.

Unlike some input devices, there are a few settings you need to tweak before you can use your new Xbox controllers to play through your giant Steam library. First, the Xbox Series X and Xbox Elite controllers only work if you are using the latest beta version of the Steam app. Full support should be out shortly before the stable release, but if you want to use them immediately, you should opt for the Steam beta:

  1. Open Steam.
  2. Go to Steam> Settings> Account.
  3. Click Change in the Beta Participation section.
  4. Select “Steam Beta Update” from the drop-down menu.
  5. Click OK, then restart your computer and update Steam.

Then you need to connect the controller to your PC. You can do this by connecting it via USB or Bluetooth:

  1. Press the Xbox button to turn on your controller.
  2. Hold the Pairing button for three seconds to put the controller into pairing mode. The Xbox button will start flashing.
  3. On your PC, go to Settings> Devices> Bluetooth & Other Devices .
  4. Make sure Bluetooth is turned on, then tap Add Bluetooth or Other Device.
  5. Select your Xbox controller from the list of available devices.
  6. Wait while your computer configures the controller and downloads any required drivers.

After updating Steam, connecting your controller and installed drivers, you should see your Xbox controller listed on your Steam connected devices. But before you start playing, turn on Big Picture Mode on Steam, then go to Settings> Controller Settings and make sure Xbox Configuration Support is turned on so you can customize your controller’s button layout and use features such as Series X Controller Trigger Screen.

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