Xbox controller: Controller Xbox button does not light
The controller is not turning on. Microsoft’s first suspect is the batteries: weak batteries also cause connection problems while the controller still has some power.
Applies to: Xbox Wireless Controller (USB-C) and Xbox One controller (micro-USB). What you see: no light, off. Where: a controller.
What Microsoft says to do
- Put in fresh batteries, or fully recharge a rechargeable pack.
- Hold the Xbox button for 5 to 10 seconds until the controller turns off, wait a few seconds, then hold it again to turn it on.
- Connect the controller to the console or a Windows PC with a USB cable. If it turns on only on the cable, update its firmware (the Xbox Accessories app on Windows, or Controllers & headsets on the console).
If it is still wrong
If it will not power on even on a USB cable, Microsoft says the controller needs to be replaced: use ‘Request an Xbox controller replacement’ on the page. Microsoft: support.xbox.com
We give no step that Microsoft does not give: do not open the controller yourself.
Source
Microsoft’s own support page, read on the date shown.
- Xbox Support: My Xbox controller won’t connect or turn on — Xbox Wireless Controller (USB-C) and Xbox One controller (micro-USB). support.xbox.com Checked 2026-09-29.