Can you use 2 controllers on a Windows gaming PC?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As a passionate PC gamer and content creator focusing on the latest gaming hardware, accessories and co-op experiences – I can definitively say yes, you can connect and use multiple controllers on a Windows gaming PC!

There are several great options to connect 2 or more controllers either via wired USB connections or wirelessly over Bluetooth or proprietary wireless adapters.

Below I‘ll provide detailed setup instructions, recommendations on great local multiplayer games, and troubleshooting tips from my own experience using multi-controller setups for both casual couch gaming with friends to competitive esports training.

Connecting Controllers to PC

USB Connection

Connecting controllers via USB cables is the most reliable plug-and-play method that doesn‘t require any special hardware or software.

  • Virtually all modern controllers from major brands like Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch Pro and more work instantly when plugged into USB ports.
  • Each controller needs to be plugged into its own separate USB port, so make sure you have enough available ports at the back of your PC. Most gaming PCs and motherboards have 4-8 USB ports which is plenty for two controllers.

If you need more USB ports you can use:

  • USB hubs to add additional ports
  • Front panel USB ports for easier access
  • PCIe expansion cards to add more USB ports to your PC

I recommend using high-quality USB 3.0 ports and cables if available for lower latency and higher power delivery.

Wireless Connections

Wireless controllers are also easy to setup but may require some additional hardware/software depending on your PC and controllers.

Xbox Wireless Adapter

For Xbox One or Xbox Series X|S controllers, the official Xbox Wireless Adapter provides the best wireless experience on Windows 10 and 11 PCs with:

  • Support for connecting up to 8 controllers simultaneously
  • Lower latency than Bluetooth
  • Easy plug-and-play setup

It uses Xbox Wireless radio protocol for performance akin to playing on an Xbox console.

Bluetooth

Many modern controllers like DualSense and Xbox Series X|S controllers have Bluetooth support allowing them to pair directly with PCs wirelessly over Bluetooth.

  • Make sure your PC has built-in Bluetooth or a compatible Bluetooth adapter if needed
  • Bluetooth can connect up to 8 controllers concurrently
  • May have slightly higher latency than proprietary wireless

I recommend Bluetooth 5.0 or higher adapters for best performance.

Local Multiplayer Games

Once you‘ve got controllers set up on your PC, there‘s a huge variety of great local multiplayer games to enjoy:

Couch Co-op Platformers

Fun genre to play cooperatively in the same room like:

  • It Takes Two – Fantastic story exclusively built for co-op
  • Cuphead
  • Unravel Two

Use Steam Remote Play or Parsec to play online with a friend too.

Fighting Games

Iconic series with competitive local versus modes:

  • Street Fighter
  • Mortal Kombat
  • Tekken

Sports Games

Play on the same team or head to head against a friend:

  • FIFA Soccer
  • NBA 2K Basketball
  • Tony Hawk‘s Pro Skater

Racing Games

Compete for fastest lap times:

  • Need for Speed
  • Forza Horizon
  • Crash Team Racing

Check game listings to confirm number of local players supported. Popular genres tend to have local co-op modes but some story games may be single player only.

Troubleshooting Multiple Controllers

Here are some common issues and fixes while setting up two controllers:

Controllers not connecting:

  • Try different USB ports in case some aren‘t working
  • Re-pair wireless controllers
  • Update controller drivers and firmware

Controllers swapping to player 2:

  • Set controller order in Steam/Origin
  • Re-pair controllers to sync to player 1 first

Weird input behavior:

  • Close background apps
  • Disable Steam Input if issues persist
  • Check for controller firmware updates

With so many great local multiplayer games on PC and the ability to use multiple gamepads – there are tons of fun couch co-op experiences to be had! Feel free to ask me any other questions you have about setting up controllers or getting games to detect properly.

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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