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Can You Use Two Wired Controllers on Xbox Series S? A Deep Dive into Wired Controller Connectivity

The short answer is a resounding yes, you can absolutely use two wired controllers on your Xbox Series S! The Xbox Series S is designed to be a social gaming hub, and the ability to connect multiple controllers, wired or wireless, is a core part of that experience. Let’s delve into the specifics of how to make this happen and answer some frequently asked questions you might have.

Understanding Controller Connectivity on Xbox Series S

The Xbox Series S offers a surprising amount of flexibility when it comes to controller connectivity. While it might not boast the same number of USB ports as its more powerful sibling, the Xbox Series X, it still provides ample opportunity for multiplayer gaming with both wired and wireless setups.

The key to understanding wired controller support on the Xbox Series S lies in the USB ports. The console has at least one USB port on the front (or side, depending on your console’s orientation) and one or two on the back. This means that out of the box, you can connect at least two wired controllers directly to the console. If you need more, you’ll need to employ a little bit of tech ingenuity, which we’ll discuss later.

Wired vs. Wireless: Which is Better?

Before we jump further into the specifics of using wired controllers on the Xbox Series S, let’s briefly compare wired and wireless options:

Wired Controllers: Offer a direct connection, minimizing latency (input lag). This is especially crucial for competitive gamers who need the fastest response times. Wired controllers also don’t rely on batteries, so you’ll never have to worry about your controller dying mid-game.
Wireless Controllers: Provide freedom of movement and eliminate the clutter of cables. They offer a cleaner aesthetic and are perfect for couch co-op where players might be seated further away from the console. Modern wireless controllers, like the Xbox Wireless Controller, have significantly improved in terms of latency, making them a viable option for most gamers.

Setting Up Wired Controllers on Your Xbox Series S

Connecting wired controllers to your Xbox Series S is a straightforward process:

Plug in the controllers: Simply connect the USB cable of each controller into an available USB port on your Xbox Series S.
Power on the console: If the controllers aren’t automatically recognized, power on your Xbox Series S.
Sync the controllers (if necessary): In most cases, the controllers will be recognized immediately. However, if a controller isn’t working, try pressing the Xbox button on the controller. If it doesn’t light up or connect, you may need to sync it. To sync, press and hold the small pair button on the console (usually located on the front or side) until the Xbox button on the controller starts flashing.
Enjoy your game! Once the controllers are synced, you’re ready to jump into your favorite multiplayer games.

Expanding Your Wired Controller Capacity

What if you need to connect more than the number of USB ports available on your Xbox Series S? That’s where USB hubs come in handy. A USB hub is a device that expands a single USB port into multiple ports.

Here’s how to use a USB hub to connect more wired controllers:

Choose a quality USB hub: Opt for a powered USB hub, meaning it has its own power adapter. This ensures that the hub can provide sufficient power to all connected controllers, preventing potential connectivity issues.
Connect the hub to your Xbox Series S: Plug the USB hub into one of the USB ports on your Xbox Series S.
Connect your controllers to the hub: Plug the USB cables of your wired controllers into the USB ports on the hub.
Test the connection: Power on your Xbox Series S and test each controller to ensure it’s working properly.

Using a USB hub allows you to significantly increase the number of wired controllers you can connect to your Xbox Series S.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about using wired controllers on the Xbox Series S:

Q1: How many wired controllers can the Xbox Series S support simultaneously?

The Xbox Series S can technically support up to eight controllers simultaneously, whether wired or wireless. However, you’ll likely need a USB hub to connect that many wired controllers due to the limited number of USB ports on the console itself.

Q2: Do I need a special adapter to use wired controllers on Xbox Series S?

No, you don’t need a special adapter for standard wired Xbox controllers. They should work directly with the Xbox Series S via a USB connection. If you’re using older controllers or controllers designed for other systems, you might need an adapter, but standard Xbox One or Xbox Series X/S wired controllers are plug-and-play.

Q3: Will any USB hub work for connecting multiple wired controllers?

While any USB hub might work, it’s highly recommended to use a powered USB hub. A powered hub has its own power adapter, ensuring that each connected controller receives enough power. This is especially important when connecting multiple controllers, as unpowered hubs might not provide sufficient power, leading to connectivity issues or controller malfunctions.

Q4: Can I use a wired headset with a wired controller connected to the Xbox Series S?

Yes, most wired Xbox controllers have a 3.5mm headset jack that allows you to connect a wired headset. This lets you enjoy in-game audio and communicate with other players.

Q5: Does using a wired controller reduce input lag compared to a wireless controller on Xbox Series S?

Yes, wired controllers generally offer lower input lag compared to wireless controllers. This is because the data is transmitted directly through the USB cable, eliminating the potential for wireless interference or latency. While the difference might be negligible for casual gamers, competitive players often prefer wired controllers for the edge in responsiveness.

Q6: Can I charge a wireless controller by plugging it into the Xbox Series S with a USB cable while playing?

Yes, you can charge a wireless Xbox controller by plugging it into the Xbox Series S with a USB cable while playing. The controller will function as a wired controller while it’s charging.

Q7: Are all wired Xbox controllers compatible with the Xbox Series S?

Most wired Xbox One and Xbox Series X/S controllers are compatible with the Xbox Series S. However, it’s always a good idea to check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure compatibility.

Q8: My wired controller isn’t working on my Xbox Series S. What should I do?

Here are some troubleshooting steps:

Check the USB connection: Ensure the USB cable is securely plugged into both the controller and the Xbox Series S.
Try a different USB port: Rule out a faulty USB port by trying a different port on the console.
Restart the Xbox Series S: A simple restart can often resolve connectivity issues.
Update the controller firmware: Check for controller firmware updates in the Xbox Accessories app.
Test with another controller: If possible, test with another wired controller to determine if the issue is with the controller or the console.

Q9: Can I use a wired controller designed for another console (e.g., PlayStation) on my Xbox Series S?

Generally, no. Controllers are typically designed to work specifically with their respective consoles. While there might be third-party adapters that allow you to use controllers from other consoles, they are not officially supported by Microsoft and may not function perfectly.

Q10: Does the length of the USB cable affect the performance of a wired controller?

While extremely long or damaged cables can potentially introduce signal degradation, a standard-length USB cable (typically 6-10 feet) should not significantly affect the performance of a wired controller.

Q11: Can I use a wired keyboard and mouse along with wired controllers on the Xbox Series S?

Yes, the Xbox Series S supports wired keyboards and mice. You can connect them to the console’s USB ports alongside your wired controllers. Some games even offer keyboard and mouse support for gameplay.

Q12: Where can I find official Xbox wired controllers?

Official Xbox wired controllers can be found at most major retailers that sell video game consoles and accessories, as well as online retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and the Microsoft Store.

Q13: Are there any specific brands of USB hubs recommended for use with Xbox Series S and wired controllers?

While there’s no single “best” brand, look for reputable brands like Anker, TP-Link, or Sabrent. Ensure the hub is powered and supports the USB standard (USB 3.0 or higher is recommended). Read user reviews to see if other gamers have had success using the hub with their Xbox consoles.

Q14: Can I disconnect and reconnect a wired controller while the Xbox Series S is running?

Yes, you can typically disconnect and reconnect a wired controller while the Xbox Series S is running. The console should automatically recognize the controller when it’s plugged back in. However, it’s always a good practice to avoid doing this during critical gameplay moments, as it might cause temporary interruptions.

Q15: Will using multiple controllers, either wired or wireless, affect the Xbox Series S performance?

Using multiple controllers shouldn’t significantly impact the Xbox Series S performance. The console is designed to handle multiple controller inputs simultaneously. However, if you’re running demanding games and have several controllers connected, you might experience a slight decrease in performance, but this is unlikely to be noticeable in most cases.

The Xbox Series S is a versatile console that supports a variety of gaming setups. With its ability to connect multiple wired controllers, either directly or through a USB hub, it’s a great option for enjoying local multiplayer games with friends and family.

Remember that understanding how technology impacts learning and engagement, especially in gaming, is important. Organizations like the Games Learning Society at GamesLearningSociety.org explore these connections and offer valuable insights into the educational power of games.

Can you use two wired controllers on Xbox Series S?