Why was my controller dying faster?
Playstation and Xbox controllers are very comfortable devices that I consider the best in years. Still, the battery life of these controllers is one of the issues that developers are still constantly trying to improve. From changing a few settings to buying new batteries, there are many strategies you can use to save more battery power.
One of the things I found online, especially on forums of people with similar problems, was that there were a number of reasons why drivers are out of stock quickly.
The most significant things that will cause an XBOX controller to die prematurely include:
- heat exposure
- Using cheap, rechargeable AA batteries
- Excessive configuration with third-party drivers
The solutions to improve battery life that I have found are not complicated at all. Many of them require you to customize certain settings on your console or a simple battery replacement which I will discuss here.
heat exposure
If your battery has been exposed to heat, it may have suffered some form of damage. This can happen if you place the controller on a high temperature surface. Since Playstation controllers use lithium batteries, they can be easily damaged if exposed to unsafe temperatures.
cheap batteries
But I've also discovered a variety of other reasons why this could be happening. For example, Xbox One controllers come with a swappable battery pack, which is compatible with a variety of different brands of batteries, but not all of them work effectively within the controller system.
Tips to prolong battery life and prevent damage
Xbox Controller Tips
Microsoft disappointed many, myself included, with its decision to forego the inclusion of rechargeable batteries in Xbox One controllers. In the past, Xbox controllers came with a pair of built-in batteries, which you can replace with rechargeable batteries if he wants it.
Even with this limitation, I researched various solutions that could improve the battery life of my Xbox One controller, whether they are replaceable or rechargeable batteries.
- turn off controller
- Swap disposable batteries for rechargeable batteries
- Disable controller vibration
- Connect the headset to the console instead of the controller
These tips will extend the life of your Xbox controller and enable more gaming.
Turn off the controller when not in use
We have all suffered it. We left the console on and decided to stream videos or listen to music, but forgot to turn off the Xbox controller. This is something I seem to do every time I use it.
But there is no need to leave the controller on all the time.
To turn off the Xbox controller, press and hold the Xbox button located in the middle and choose the option "turn off controller"option.
This will help you save battery while you are not using your device. It helped me a lot to save battery time. There is also an option that automatically turns off the Xbox controller, so keep an eye out for it.
Use rechargeable or AA batteries
The Xbox controller comes with a pair of disposable batteries. However, I didn't want to change batteries all the time, so I looked into rechargeable Xbox battery options. That's when I found out that the Xbox had aPlay and transport kitIt comes with rechargeable batteries containing 1,400 mAh.
These batteries allow gamers to play for up to 30 hours. Still, like any other battery for a controller, its longevity depends on usage.
I also discovered thisAA batteriesoffer more hours of play. Instead of the 1400 mAh that comes with the Play and Charge kit, you get long hours of gaming with AA batteries as they can store up to 2000 mAh.
Depending on what you buy, they are priced about the same as the Xbox Play and Charge Kit or more. Remember to dispose of them every few months, as battery life may deteriorate if you spend more than six months with them.
Disable controller vibration
Similar to the Dualshock 4, the Xbox controller can be significantly affected if you decide to disable vibration on your controller.
This can extend battery life, but overall it can detract from the gaming experience due to the immersion it offers. However, if this is not important to you, you can disable it at any time.
To do this, go toXbox menu,Definitionsand then selectEasy to use🇧🇷 After that chooseController,and then you will see an option to disable vibration.
Connect the headset directly to the console
This was surprising news for me. Plugging the headset directly into the Xbox controller jack can significantly reduce battery life. It is recommended that the headset be plugged directly into the console rather than the controller as this can save a lot of time on battery life.
I have noticed that my controller dies faster every time I play online with my friends and never understood why. But your headphones consume a significant amount of battery power.
Unsurprisingly, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One controllers suffered the most from faster battery drain, but there are a few solutions that helped me resolve the issue.
Please note that these tips will be specific to controllers for the following game consoles:
- ps4
- xbox serie s
- xbox serie x
- Xbox One controls
Dualshock 4 Controller Tips
It's been seven years since I bought my first PlayStation 4. As impressive as the controller may look, with its quick triggers and big, cushy buttons, the controller is far from perfect. Questionable battery life was one of the issues I noticed when I first used it.
Still, there are several ways you can use to improve your controller's battery life, which worked for me too, without spending money on new equipment.
- Reduce controller brightness
- Lower the volume of the controller
- Replace controller battery
These steps are simple, but it's easy to miss them.
Lower the controller brightness to save battery
This change has a minor impact on your gaming experience as it does not interfere with any controller functionality. Changing the brightness of your Dualshock 4 controller can improve battery life during a gaming session.
The light bar cannot be completely turned off, but you can dim the light to make it less bright. I completed this by accessing themenuof the Playstation 4, enteringDefinitions, and selecting theDualShock 4insidedevices🇧🇷 This will give you the option to reduce the brightness of the lightbar.
Reduce controller volume to save battery
There are some games likeGrand Theft Auto 5, I realized that I used this function. It outputs sounds from the controller's built-in speakers, which I didn't know required more power than necessary.
The way I found out that this feature could be disabled was by going into the Playstation 4menu, Then inSettings > Device Drivers > Volume Control.
After that, I noticed an improvement in my controller's battery life. Surprisingly, this feature drains most of the battery in a matter of minutes.
Replace controller battery
I also looked into battery alternatives in case I wanted a battery that lasts longer. I have noticed that disabling certain controller features can affect my immersive experience while gaming. If you don't want to do this, I recommend replacing the controller battery entirely.
This will help you in the long run as you will know what steps to take to preserve battery life. The Dualshock 4 comes with a built-in 1000mAh battery, but you can also get a stronger battery by replacing it with one.2,200mAh battery.
conclusion
But no one wants to wait ages for a new controller with better battery life to come out. These methods worked for me and you should try them to see if they work for you too.
Similarly, Playstation 4 controllers have a variety of different features that can drain your DualShock 4 battery even faster than before. However, there are a variety of solutions you can use tooptimizeyour controller to die. This will save you from having to buy new controllers or new batteries if they end up going bad.
FAQs
Why does my Xbox controller keep dying fast? ›
Your controller needs new batteries. The firmware in your controller needs to be updated. Your controller is too far away from the gaming console. There are too many devices connected to your gaming console.
How do I stop my Xbox controller from dying? ›Replace your Xbox Controller's Batteries
The most common issue would be dying batteries which can cause your controller to behave abruptly and even turn off. If you have spare batteries lying around you can use those, but make sure they are high-quality batteries, as low-quality ones will barely last a day or two.
Microsoft has been testing the controller and says that it'll last up to 10 years, if not longer.
Is My Xbox controller Dying? ›Whether you're using alkaline or rechargeable batteries (including the rechargeable battery pack from the Xbox One Play & Charge Kit), the battery indicator will show how much battery life you have left. If your batteries are low and need to be replaced or recharged, the onscreen battery icon will appear as red.
Can you overcharge an Xbox controller? ›Yes, the xbox elite series 2 controller comes with overcharge protection. The controller also supports wired connection so you can play while it's charging.
Why Xbox controllers still use batteries? ›So that [deal is] going to go on for a while… it's been going on for a while, and… it needs to go for a while.” So the only reason why Xbox controllers use primitive batteries is because they have a business partnership with Duracell.
How do I keep my Xbox controller in good condition? ›Xbox Elite Wireless Controller: Only use a soft cloth dampened with an IPA solution 70% or less, Formula 409 All-Purpose Cleaner, Windex Glass Cleaner, or Dawn (or other mild dish soap) and water. Do not use disinfectant wipes.
How do I update my Xbox controller? ›If instructions to install the update don't automatically appear, you can start the process manually. To do this, press the Xbox button to open the guide, choose Profile & system > Settings > Devices & connections > Accessories, and then select the controller you want to update.
Do Xbox One controllers wear out? ›How long your controller lasts entirely depends on how well you take care of it, and how frequently you use the controller. If you play regularly, then common wear and tear of the controller is to be expected, but that shouldn't serve too much of a problem as the controller would still be fully functional.
Is Xbox One controller still good? ›The best Xbox One controllers are excellent value for money. Not only will they allow you to play last gen games with ease and greater levels of function, but they'll be fully compatible with the Xbox Series X/S too.
Are Xbox controllers worth it? ›
Xbox Wireless Controller
But the standard-issue Xbox pad isn't just great because of its connectivity. The hardware itself is excellent for the controller's $60 asking price. The sticks, buttons, triggers, and the sunken dish-shaped D-pad all feel impeccably tight, with the latter having a satisfying clickiness to it.
Show activity on this post. Neogaf has people claiming times all over the place, averaging about 10-20 hours, some more, some less. Probably depending on the type of battery used. In my personal experiences while on battery, both of my controllers would only live for about 15 hours.
Is it safe to charge Xbox controller with phone charger? ›If you're wondering, can I charge my Xbox controller with a phone charger? The answer to that question if a yes with caveats. If your phone charges via a USB-C cable, you'll want to buy an Xbox battery pack (like the one linked below) that also uses USB-C.
Can I leave my controllers on the charging dock? ›Yes! The charging stand and station double as a display for your controllers.
How long do AA batteries last in Xbox controller? ›The average lifespan of AA batteries in an Xbox controller is roughly 40 hours. The average lifespan of the most common rechargeable battery pack, the Xbox Play, and Charge Kit, is only 30 hours. The Play and Charge kit's battery life decreases over time too.
Which Xbox controllers don't need batteries? ›Unlike traditional Xbox wireless controllers, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (including the Core controller) has an internal rechargeable battery and doesn't require the Xbox One Play & Charge Kit or AA batteries.
How do you make the batteries last longer in an Xbox controller? ›- Buy a rechargeable battery dock.
- Don't bother with the Play and Charge Kit.
- Play games with a wired connection.
- Don't worry about leaving it turned on.
You should always use water or rubbing alcohol to clean your controllers. Most gamepads have a nice grippy finish on them, and harsh cleaners, like bleach, could ruin the look and feel of the plastic. It's also a good idea to avoid compressed air, as the force of the air can damage components inside the controller.
How do pro gamers hold their controllers? ›The claw grip is a unique grip used by video game players. The controller is rested in the palm like a normal controller. However, the player will use the index finger for the buttons instead of the thumbs.
Can playing claw damage your fingers? ›While this position is exceptionally efficient for the use of a standard console controller, it creates a unique strain on the index finger, its muscles, and the surrounding joints which may lead to pain, repetitive strain, and the potential for long-term dysfunction.
Can sweaty hands damage controller? ›
If your palms are sweating, you may have trouble holding onto your controller or mouse. You could even damage your devices if the problem of sweat is bad enough. Whether you're sitting down at night to unwind with games, or you're heading off to a tournament, try these sweat solutions.
Why is my Xbox controller not working properly? ›When your Xbox One controller won't turn on, first make sure the batteries aren't dead. If the batteries are low, the controller won't turn on at all. Pop the back cover off and replace the two AA batteries, then try again. You can also purchase the Xbox Rechargeable Battery kit to gain rechargeable batteries.
How do I update my Xbox One controller without cable? ›From the Xbox One home, select Settings. Select Devices and accessories. Select Xbox One Wireless Controller. Select Update, then select Continue and allow the update to run.
Do Xbox controllers get updated? ›Other Ways to Update Your Xbox Controller
If your Xbox controller doesn't have a 3.5mm port, and can't be updated wirelessly, then you will need to connect your controller to your console via a USB cable to update it.
Drift isn't just caused by rough gameplay or bad design, but also by the environment. While dust and grime were previously mentioned, environmental containments might look like greasy, salty snacks, or otherwise the fur shed by a pet.
What causes stick drift Xbox? ›There are multiple causes of stick drift. Sometimes it can be caused by damage—like dropping it—for example. Other times it can be caused by normal wear and tear. Fortunately, a lot of the time, it is simply caused by a buildup of debris in the sensor.
Which Xbox controller is most durable? ›- PowerA Enhanced Wired Xbox Controller.
- Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma.
- Razer Wolverine Ultimate Edition.
GuliKit KingKong 2 PRO Controller is the first controller with electromagnetic joystick in the world to solve drifting completely. Generally instead of carbon film material, the stick uses permanent magnet materials and linear Hall technology to achieve precise positioning in games.
What controllers do pro gamers use? ›TRUSTED BY THE PROS
Scuf Gaming is the official controller partner of major gaming leagues, including CDL, MLG, ESL, UMG, Gfinity and EGL.
Some are wired and some are wireless. Wired non-Microsoft controllers can be a lot less expensive, and some gamers prefer wired connections for cutting down lag in competitive matches. (And you never have to worry about a dead battery.)
Is PS or Xbox controller better? ›
Ergonomics. Both controllers feel great in hand, with the Dualsense controller being the larger of the two. The Xbox Series X shape is time-tested and proven, while the Dualsense is Sony's best shape yet. I don't think there is a clear winner between these two controllers and largely boils down to preference.
What is the new Xbox called? ›Xbox Series X console. Xbox Wireless Controller. 24 months of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate.
What is the best Xbox 2022? ›- Xbox One S Console.
- Xbox One X 1TB Cyberpunk Bundle Limited Edition.
- Xbox One S 1TB Payerunknown`s Battegrounds Bundle.
- Halo 4 Xbox 360 320GB Console Bundle.
- Xbox One S 500GB Console - Forza Horizon 3 Hot Wheels Bundle.
- Xbox One X 1TB Console – Xbox One X 1TB Hyperspace console.
| Release Date | 10 November 2020 |
|---|---|
| Compatible With | Xbox Wireless Controllers with a USB-C port* |
| Battery Life | Up to 30 hours of battery life per charge*** |
- Buy a rechargeable battery dock.
- Don't bother with the Play and Charge Kit.
- Play games with a wired connection.
- Don't worry about leaving it turned on.
Microsoft releases regular updates to the Xbox Controllers to improve its performance. But if your controller is running on outdated firmware, then there is a chance that it keeps disconnecting. All you can do is update the Controller's firmware.
How often should you replace Xbox controller batteries? ›Neogaf has people claiming times all over the place, averaging about 10-20 hours, some more, some less. Probably depending on the type of battery used. In my personal experiences while on battery, both of my controllers would only live for about 15 hours. I also mainly used Duracell.
How long do AA batteries last in Xbox One controller? ›The average lifespan of AA batteries in an Xbox controller is roughly 40 hours. The average lifespan of the most common rechargeable battery pack, the Xbox Play, and Charge Kit, is only 30 hours.
Does low battery affect Xbox One controller? ›Replies (2) This should make no difference to the performance of the controller if you are experiencing issues with the controller can you please follow this troubleshooting guide. I would also try following the network troubleshooting guide as this can sometimes cause input lag issues.
Why is my Xbox controller not holding charge? ›Troubleshooting. If your rechargeable battery pack doesn't charge when you connect the wireless controller to the console with a USB cable, it might have worn out (as all rechargeable batteries do). The length of time that a rechargeable battery lasts depends on how often you recharge it.
How do I update my controller? ›
- Sign in to Xbox Live with the controller plugged into the console. ...
- From the Xbox One home, select Settings.
- Select Devices and accessories.
- Select Xbox One Wireless Controller.
- Select Update, then select Continue and allow the update to run.
- Step 1 How to Fix Xbox One Wireless Controller Drift. ...
- Pour 70% isopropyl alcohol on the tip of a cotton ball. ...
- Rub the cotton ball all along the edges of the thumbstick. ...
- Let the controller dry for 40-60 seconds. ...
- Connect your controller and see if there are any drift stick problems on any game.
If you run out of battery, then, you can plug the controller directly into your console and use it in a wired way. But it won't charge up unless you buy an extra product! Read more on Xbox: The very best Xbox Series X games.
How often should you clean your Xbox controller? ›General cleaning recommendations
Clean every 3-6 months or whenever needed. Important Power off and disconnect your Xbox console from the wall before cleaning it. Don't apply liquids directly to your console or controllers.
If you take away the rechargeable battery, the controller will be powered simply using the USB connection to your Xbox. It becomes a wired controller but it will stay powered as long as you have it plugged into your Xbox.