Playing PC games with multiple controllers can greatly enhance the experience, especially when you are engaged in local multiplayer or team gaming.
Notably, you are not limited to a single controller; you can connect 2 controllers, and even up to four controllers, to your computer for a more inclusive gaming experience.
This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to connect 2 controllers on a PC, focusing on both wired and wireless controllers.
Understanding the Basics to Connect Multiple Controllers
Before we delve into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand some fundamental aspects.
- Your PC should support multiple controllers. Most modern PCs do, but it’s worth confirming.
- The 2 controllers can be connected either through a USB port or Bluetooth devices. If using a USB cable, each controller must be plugged into its own USB port.
- For Bluetooth, the 2 controllers will need to be in pairing mode to be detected by the PC.
Method 1: Connecting Controllers using USB Ports
Connect 2 Controllers using USB ports is straightforward. You will need a USB cable for each controller. The number of available USB ports on your PC will determine how many controllers you can connect.
- Connecting the First Controller:
Plug the USB cable into the 2 controllers and the other end into an available USB port on your PC. Windows should recognize the controller and install the necessary drivers automatically. If it doesn’t, you may need to install them manually.
- Connecting the Second Controller:
The process for connecting the second controller is similar to the first. Simply use another USB cable to connect the additional controller to another available USB port.
Method 2: Connecting Controllers using Bluetooth devices
Bluetooth devices provide another method to connect multiple controllers. This process is a little more intricate than using USB ports.
Here are the steps:
1. Activating Bluetooth on Your PC:
Navigate to the control panel through the start menu on your Windows PC. Click on the ‘Devices and Printers’ section and then ‘Add Bluetooth Device.’ A pop-up box will appear with a list of available Bluetooth devices.
2. Putting the Controller in Pairing Mode:
The next step involves putting the controller in pairing mode. This usually involves holding down the Xbox button until it starts to blink.
3. Connecting the Controller:
In the list of available devices, select the controller and click on ‘Pair.’
4. Connecting the Second Controller:
To connect the second controller, repeat the same steps.
Method 3: Using Xbox Wireless Adapter
If you’re using Xbox controllers, the Xbox Wireless Adapter is another excellent option to connect 2 controllers.
Plug the adapter into an available USB port, press the pair button on the adapter, then press the Xbox button on the controller. For the second controller, follow the same steps.
Troubleshooting Tips
Despite the above guidelines, you might sometimes face challenges while trying to connect 2 controllers.
Here are a few troubleshooting tips:
Controllers are Not Being Recognized:
If the 2 controllers are not being recognized, check if the USB ports are functioning correctly. You can do this by connecting other USB devices to see if they are detected.
Controllers are Not Connecting:
If you are using Bluetooth and the 2 controllers are not connecting, ensure the Bluetooth turn on your PC is on and working correctly. You can test this by trying to connect to other Bluetooth devices.
Controllers are Not Working:
If the controllers are not working, it might be because the drivers are not up-to-date. You can update them through the control panel under the ‘Devices and Printers’ section.
Controllers are Connected But Not Working:
If the connected 2 controllers are not working, you might need to reset them. This can be done by holding down the power button on the controller for a few seconds.
Gaming with Multiple Controllers
With your controllers now connected, you can enjoy a host of PC games that support multiple controllers. These range from competitive team games to cooperative games that require teamwork. Some games even offer split-screen modes for a more immersive multiplayer experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many controllers can I connect to my PC?
Most PCs can support up to four controllers concurrently. However, this may vary depending on the game and your PC’s capabilities.
Can I connect different types of controllers to my PC?
Yes, you can connect different types of controllers, such as Xbox controllers, to your PC. The connection process may vary depending on the type of controller.
Do all PC games support multiple controllers?
Not all PC games support multiple controllers. Always check the game specifications before attempting to connect multiple controllers.
Can I use both wired and wireless controllers at the same time?
Yes, you can use both wired and wireless controllers at the same time on your PC.
What do I do if my controller is not connecting?
Check your USB port or Bluetooth connection. If these are working fine, try updating the controller’s drivers or resetting the controller.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding how to connect 2 controllers on a PC can greatly enhance your PC gaming experience. Whether you are using USB ports, Bluetooth devices, or the Xbox wireless adapter, this guide provides the necessary steps to ensure your controllers are ready for action.
Note: The number of game controllers you can connect varies depending on your PC’s capabilities and the game you are playing. Make sure to check the game specifications for optimal performance.
Brook over 3 years of professional gaming, esports coaching, and gaming hardware reviews to provide insightful expertise across PC, console, and mobile gaming.
