How to Connect a Second Controller to an Xbox 360

Written by Darlene Antonelli, MA

Last Updated: May 3, 2025

Do you have more than one person wanting to play on your Xbox 360? This wikiHow will teach you how to connect a second controller to your Xbox 360 after you've connected the first controller.

Steps

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If you don't know how to connect your controller to Xbox 360, you can read about connecting wirelessly in How to Connect a Wireless Xbox 360 Controller.
2
Turn on your Xbox 360 (if it isn't already on). If your Xbox 360 is already on, you can skip this step.
- You'll find the power button on the right side of the Xbox 360's face.
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Some models of the Xbox controller, like the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 and the Xbox Adaptive Controller have built-in batteries and come with a USB-C cable for charging. Other models of Xbox controllers require AA or rechargeable batteries to work.
This is the large circular button centered in your controller with the Xbox logo. When the button starts to flash, release your finger. The controller will then be ready to pair.
5
Press the bind/connection button on the console. You'll see it next to an >>> icon.
- If you have an original Xbox 360, the bind button is to the right of the memory card slots. If you have an Xbox 360S, you'll find the bind button to the left of the USB slots in the lower right corner of the Xbox's face. On the Xbox 360E, you'll find the button in the lower right corner as well.
6
Press and hold the controller's bind/sync button. This is the circular button on top of the controller (not the Xbox button) next to the >>> icon. Release this button when you see the Xbox button flash a few more times. When the button remains lit, the controller is connected to the console.
- You can repeat these steps to continue connecting controllers.