Xbox Controllers

Check your model

Controllers supports Xbox One, Xbox Series, Elite, and Adaptive controller families. Bluetooth is available only on equipped models; a controller being wireless does not necessarily mean it supports Bluetooth.

Use Controllers Lite to check the inputs your particular model and connection report before buying.

Connect by USB or Bluetooth

1. For USB, connect with a data-capable cable and check the Controllers device list.
2. For Bluetooth-equipped models, power on the controller and hold its pairing button until the Xbox light flashes rapidly.
3. Open Controllers’ Bluetooth panel and click Connect. If macOS does not complete pairing there, use the Open Bluetooth Settings button and finish in System Settings.
4. Select the controller, assign a layout, and turn mapping On.

Recent controller firmware is recommended for Bluetooth on Mac. Older Xbox models can need a receiver or adapter; verify your exact setup with Controllers Lite rather than assuming Bluetooth support.

Buttons, sticks, and paddles

Map buttons, D-pad inputs, sticks, and analog triggers to keyboard and mouse actions. Elite paddle bindings are available when exposed by the controller and connection. Press a paddle in Controllers to check whether it is detected independently.

An Elite controller may be identified as Xbox Elite Wireless Controller after a paddle is first pressed. If a control is missing, check the model, firmware, and connection before building your layout.

Adaptive controls and multiple players

With an Xbox Adaptive setup, map the buttons and axes that the controller reports. Test your attached controls individually, then assign actions that suit your game or app.

Multiple controllers can use different layouts at the same time, including identical models distinguished by player slot. Learn more in Layouts.

Limits and troubleshooting

• Xbox controllers do not provide gyro input for motion cursor or scrolling.
• Wireless battery reporting depends on the model and connection. USB connections do not show battery readouts.
• With identical Xbox controllers, macOS can sometimes associate a wireless battery reading with the other controller row.
• Exclusive mode requires a direct HID connection. It is unavailable for controllers connected through the MFi/GameController framework.
• Controllers does not control rumble, LEDs, or controller audio.

If you see duplicate inputs, try Exclusive mode when available. For missing devices or inactive mappings, follow Troubleshooting.