How To Check Xbox Controller Battery Level on Windows 11 PC

How to Keep Tabs on Your Xbox Controller’s Battery Level in Windows 11

Checking your Xbox controller’s battery level on a Windows 11 PC isn’t rocket science, and honestly, it’s pretty handy to avoid those dreaded mid-game disconnects. Connecting your controller, whether through Bluetooth or USB, is just the start. The Xbox Accessories app makes it super easy to keep an eye on battery life. Staying aware of the power means fewer interruptions when you’re in the zone.

Getting Your Controller Connected

First off, you gotta pair your Xbox controller with your PC. Plug it in with a USB cable or go for that sweet wireless vibe using Bluetooth.
If you’re doing Bluetooth, make sure it’s on by navigating to:
Settings > Devices > Bluetooth & other devices.
Flip that Bluetooth switch to On. Then, hold down the Xbox button Xbox until it starts blinking, now hit “Add device” in the Bluetooth settings and choose your controller.
Or just plug it in with a sturdy USB-C or Micro USB cable. Don’t forget to check in Device Manager under Bluetooth or Human Interface Devices to confirm it’s connected. No connection, no battery info; it’s that simple.

Find the Microsoft Store

Next, hop into the Microsoft Store, which you can find in your Start menu or search for Microsoft Store if you’re feeling lazy.
You’ll want to track down the Xbox Accessories app for checking your controller’s battery. It’s essential and absolutely free to grab.

Getting That Xbox Accessories App

In the Store, hit up the search bar and type in Xbox Accessories.
Once it pops up, click on it and hit Get or Install.
Installation usually flies by in no time, but it’s necessary if you want to monitor that battery. If you’ve already got it, just go to Microsoft Store > Library > Installed to check.

Launching the Xbox Accessories App

Once you’ve got the app in place, launch it—just search for Xbox Accessories in the Start menu.
The app should automatically recognize your connected controller. If not, check that it’s powered on and snugly connected. The interface is pretty straightforward, so finding the battery level should be a breeze.

Check Battery Life

Now, inside the app, look for the battery icon. It’ll usually show a bar or some kind of indicator for how much juice is left.
Sometimes, the battery status also pops up in the Devices & Printers panel or through the Game Bar. To check the battery on the controller itself, just press the Xbox button to see if it has that feature.
Keeping an eye on this info helps avoid the surprise of a dead battery when you’re right in the middle of an epic match.

Extra Tips & Tricks

• For those feeling adventurous, you can try checking your battery status with some command line magic using PowerShell, but let’s be honest, that’s for the true tech geeks out there.
• You can see if your device is recognized in PowerShell with: Get-PnpDevice -FriendlyName *Xbox*.
• Or, if you prefer a simpler route, use Command Prompt like this:
  wmic path Win32_PnPEntity where "Name like '%Xbox%'" get DeviceID,Name,Status.

Keeping Your Controller’s Battery in Check

Make sure your USB cables aren’t frayed—nothing worse than dropping connection during a heated battle.
It’s smart to keep your Bluetooth drivers up to date; it can help with connection hiccups after those Windows updates. Just hit Device Manager (Right-click Start > Device Manager) and choose Update driver for Bluetooth and USB devices.
Since long gaming sessions can drain batteries fast, rechargeable packs can help save time and money in the long run. Just make sure to connect to solid USB ports, ideally on your motherboard or powered hubs—they’re more reliable and can extend your controller’s life.

FAQ About Battery Monitoring

Is the Xbox Accessories App really necessary?

Pretty much, yes. It’s the go-to tool for accurately tracking your controller’s battery levels on Windows.

Does the battery level update while I’m gaming?

Normally, yes. The app updates the status live as long as you’re connected. You’ll get real-time readings, which is clutch when you’re mid-game.

What if the app doesn’t recognize my controller?

Check to see if the controller is paired. Ensure the Xbox Accessories app is up to date.
A quick fix can be to go to:
Device Manager > right-click your Xbox controller > Update driver.
If all else fails, a reboot and re-pairing usually do the trick.

Can I check battery life while playing?