Can you use a Xbox 360 controller on a Xbox Series S?
As a fellow gamer, you may have seen the flashy reveal of the Xbox Series S and wondered – will it work with my Xbox 360 wireless controller that has served me well for over a decade?
I‘m here to happily report that yes indeed, the Xbox Series S has full support for connections from Xbox 360 controllers! In this guide from a gaming enthusiast to gamers, let‘s explore everything you need to know to hook up those familiar old gamepads and put them to use on the next generation Xbox…
Supported Connection Methods
The Xbox Series S can connect Xbox 360 controllers through both wired USB and wireless connections.
Wired USB
Any officially licensed Xbox 360 controller can utilize a wired USB connection, though non-chargeable units will need batteries removed. Simply use a USB 3.0 cable connected from any USB port on the front or back of the Xbox Series S.
Once connected, the Xbox button should illuminate and you‘ll be able to navigate system menus and gaming using the controller.
Wireless
For wireless functionality, turn both your Xbox Series S and Xbox 360 controller on. Press and hold the pairing button on top of the controller until the Xbox button begins blinking rapidly. Then press the pairing button on the front of the Xbox Series S console.
After several seconds, the Xbox button on your controller should become solidly lit again indicating a successful sync. Note that the official Xbox 360 Wireless Adapter connected to a USB port can also enable wireless pairing.
And with that your trusty wireless Xbox 360 controller is ready for gaming on the Xbox Series S!
Xbox 360 Controller Compatibility
Based on confirmation from Microsoft and various community reports, the following Xbox 360 controllers are compatible with Xbox Series S…
| Controller Type | Wired | Wireless |
|---|---|---|
| Xbox 360 Wireless Controller | ✓ | ✓ |
| Xbox 360 Plug and Play | ✓ | X |
| Xbox 360 Elite | ✓ | ✓ |
| 3rd Party Controllers1 | ✓ | ✓ |
1Functionality may vary – confirm controller is Xbox 360/PC compatible
Exceptions are the original launch Xbox 360 wired controller, which requires a proprietary breakaway cable, and certain 3rd party options lacking native Xbox support.
Now let‘s get into why connecting these familiar old controllers can be great for gaming…
Nostalgic Gaming With Your Trusty Controller
While the new Xbox Series S controller boasts an updated Share button and refreshed ergonomics, you can‘t necessarily teach old gaming hands new tricks. For some, not having those familiar analog sticks, triggers, and bumpers you‘ve used countless times causes more harm than good.
Benefits of using your Xbox 360 controller include:
- Retain muscle memory from years of gaming on the device layout
- Avoid re-learning new controller ergonomics and button placements
- Utilize modded/custom controllers fine-tuned to your preferences
- Leverage older specialty controllers for genres like fighting games
And with competitive multiplayer titles, not having to adjust to a new controller can help prevent harming your hard-earned skills!
For Xbox nostalgists out there, seeing that familiar Xbox 360 gamepad switched on and connected is also a reminder of all the great times you‘ve had gaming over the years. And now being able to use it on your shiny new Xbox Series S helps bridge the gap to the next generation.
So if you were worried about needing to retire your trusty Xbox 360 wireless controller with your older consoles, fret no more! The Xbox Series S embraces backwards compatibility for controllers too and will let you game on with ease.
Just connect that familiar gamepad, queue up your favorite titles, and enjoy next-gen gaming without missing a beat. This gamer salutes you Xbox 360 controller veterans marching onward!
