The widespread reporting of Xbox One Controller button malfunctions highlights the frustrating impact they can have on gaming experiences. When buttons become unresponsive or fail altogether, it can significantly disrupt gameplay. Various factors such as weak batteries, outdated firmware, faulty motherboards, connection problems, or software glitches may contribute to this issue.

Key Takeaways
  • Xbox One controller buttons become unresponsive or jammed and won’t let you play games.
  • This issue can arise due to a buildup of dirt and debris that is jamming the keys, outdated firmware, an issue in the controller’s hardware, or a temporary glitch in pairing.
  • Fix the issue by power cycling the controller and console, re-pairing the controller to the console, updating the controller’s firmware, or restoring the default settings of the console that will remove any bugs from the system.

Method Difficulty Rating

Power Cycle
Rated: 2/10

Firmware Update
Rated: 4/10


Tip: You should try basic solutions such as replacing the controller batteries, reconnecting the Bluetooth connection, or performing a thorough cleaning of the controller buttons.

WARNING: Your Xbox One controller buttons can also stop working if you drop it from a height, as that can damage the controller greatly.

Power Cycle Xbox Controller

I have realized that power cycling is the first thing to do in hardware related issues like this. If the buttons on your Xbox controller are unresponsive, initiating a power cycle should be your initial step in troubleshooting. Here is how to power cycle it: 

Step 1

Press Xbox Button

Press the Xbox button in the controller’s center > hold it for 10-15 seconds until it turns off.

Xbox controller
The Xbox button on controller
Step 2

Take Batteries Out

Pull the AA batteries from the controller > let it rest for 30 seconds.

Xbox One Controller Batteries
Xbox One Controller Batteries – Image Credits (YT/ShopHappilyGames)
Step 3

Put Batteries Back

After waiting for a while, you need to put back the batteries inside your controller.

Step 4

Press Xbox Button

Press the Xbox button > hold it until the controller switches on.

Xbox Guide Button
Xbox Guide Button – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)

It will fix your controller’s problems and restore its button functionalities.


Important: Make sure you wait the given time before plugging things back in, as you’ll end up doing a regular restart otherwise.

Update Controller’s Firmware

If I find my Xbox buttons not responding, it might suggest a firmware issue. That’s why I think updating the firmware is a reasonable step in such situations. Outdated firmware on Xbox controller can cause the buttons to stop working. To prevent such issues, it’s advisable to regularly check for and install available updates.

Through PC

To update the Xbox One controller, you must have the Xbox Accessories app in your system. If not, please download it first, then follow these steps:

Step 1

Turn on PC

Switch on your PC > connect the Xbox controller to it >Turn on the controller.

Turn off PC using power button image
Turn off PC using power button – Image Credits [Tech4Gamers]
Step 2

Open Xbox App

Image showing Xbox Accessoriess App
Xbox Accessoriess App – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)

On your computer, open the Xbox Accessories app > Look for the three-dot icon > click on it.

Step 3

Update Controller

Next, click on any available updates if there are any > If the controller’s firmware is already updated to the latest version, you will see a notification saying, “No update available.”

Updating Image of xbox controller
Updating – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)

Through Console

Another method through which you can update firmware of your controller is using your Xbox console. Make sure the controller is connected to your console, then update through the following steps:

Step 1

Hit Xbox Button

Hit the Xbox button to open the guide in the middle of the controller.

Xbox Guide Button
Xbox Guide Button – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
Step 2

Go to Profile & System

Now, Jump to the option Profile & System > click Settings. 

Profile And System
Profile And System – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
Step 3

Click on Accessories 

Go to Devices & Connections > Hit the Accessories option. Look for the … icon, click on it > you will see the version.

Accessories
Accessories – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)
Step 4

Update Controller

If you find any updates, click on it > comply with the instructions.

Update required
Update required – Image Credits (Tech4Gamers)

After you have installed and updated your controller, press all the buttons and check if the controller is working now; otherwise, move to the next method.


Final Thoughts

Many Xbox users have reported issues with non-functional buttons on their Xbox One controllers, causing frustration and prompting users to seek alternative solutions. However, workarounds exist to restore functionality to the controllers with some effort.

One potential solution involves power cycling the Xbox controller, and in some cases, the problem may be related to firmware issues. Updating the firmware can often resolve the issue.


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Arsalan Shakil
[How-To Guides Expert] Laiba, our tech guru at HI Digital, simplifies and crafts How-To Guides with a Google IT Support Certificate. Beyond tech, she captures the city's aesthetics through her lens. Join her journey where tech meets creativity! Get In Touch: Laiba@hidgt.com Google IT Certificate Shehryar Khan