As Microsoft continues to improve its current flagship console, the Xbox Series X, manygamers on older Xbox consolescan feel a bit left behind. One way for players to stay on top of the best gaming accessories for Xbox is to use wireless adapters.
Some wireless adapters for Xbox are perfect for connecting controllersamid Microsoft’s push for standardizationof licensed third-party options. Other adapters are great for wireless headsets, while others are ready to support keyboard and mouse controls on the console. Regardless of the advancements made by Microsoft’s newest console, there are still plenty of reasons for players to get a wireless adapter for Xbox and plenty of great options to choose from.
Brook Wingman XB 2 Converter
How to Choose the Best Xbox Adapters
Since wireless Xbox adapters are fairly targeted in their usage, it’s easy to find one that’s suitable for just about any need a console gamer might have. However, it’s still more than possible to narrow down options even further by considering these factors:
There isn’t a great variety of the current wireless adapter options for Xbox, but that doesn’t mean every adapter is worth its asking price. The wireless Xbox adapters below are the best choices for console gamers looking for stronger, more convenient connectivity between their Xbox and their gaming accessories.
The Best Wireless Xbox Adapters in 2024
Microsoft Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows 10
With the new and improved Xbox Wireless Adapter for Windows, gamers can play their favorite PC games using any Xbox Wireless Controller. Featuring support for wireless stereo sound and the ability to connect up to eight controllers at once, Microsoft’s wireless adapter is perfectly suited to PC and Xbox play.
Sometimes name-brand products are the best way to go, and this is true for adapters. The Microsoft Xbox wireless adapter is the best option for most players thanks to its ease of use, reliable connection, and affordable price. This wireless adapter seamlessly connects Xbox controllers and even Microsoft headsets to PCs without needing a cord.
The dongle itself is fairly small, having been reduced in size when it was updated in 2018. Not only does it connect to Microsoft-branded controllers, but it also allows most othercompatible wireless PC controllersto work with Windows.
The Microsoft Xbox wireless adapter can handle up to eight wireless controllers, plus up to four chat headsets or two stereo headsets, making it an excellent choice even for players who have a lot of gaming peripherals that need to be connected to their PC. Microsoft’s dependable tech keeps latency low too, so there’s never any interruption during matches.
TOMSHEIR Wireless Adapter for Xbox and Windows 10
Use Xbox Wireless Controllers on Windows PCs, laptops, and tablets with this wireless adapter. Though it is not compatible with controllers designed for Xbox 360, players can use it with PC games and Xbox One games streamed to Windows 10. Simply bind the adapter to an Xbox Wireless Controller to enable the same gaming experience expected on Xbox One, including in-game chat and high-quality stereo audio.
This third-party wireless adapter is almost an exact copy of Microsoft’s offering, the big difference being its smaller size. Boasting a 66% smaller form than the name-brand, this sleek, black wireless adapter is perfect for players withmore compact gaming setups.
The small adapter works almost the same as the Microsoft model, though some users report unexpected disconnects as a problem. However, the adapter is backed by the seller and Amazon with free returns and a one-year replacement warranty, so if issues do affect usability, players can quickly get them resolved.
Those somewhat rare complaints aside, this dongle extends the reach of wireless Xbox controllers to around 33 feet, more than enough for most PC gamers. Plus, the lower cost makes it an easy investment for players needing a wireless adapter that can disappear into the background.
Cipon Wireless Adapter
The Cipon Wireless Adapter is compatible with the Xbox Wireless Controller on PCs and tablets running Windows 7/8/8.1/10 with USB 2.0/3.0. It supports up to 8 wireless controllers, plus most Bluetooth headsets, allowing players to enjoy their game with friends and family. Connecting devices is quick and simple after the initial installation, plus players can save quite a bit with this affordable wireless adapter.
For players who just need a quick and cheap connection for their Xbox controllers, the Cipon wireless adapter is the best choice. Coming in at under $20, and frequently on sale for even less, players can really save by choosing this affordable wireless adapter. Despite the low cost, there are hardly any negatives to this adapter, though setup can be a bit of a headache the first time it’s used.
Aside from the installation woes, this wireless adapter works perfectly well with Xbox controllers on both PC and Xbox. In fact, the adapter can also work with Bluetooth headsets, making it ideal for a wider variety of gaming accessories. Thanks to the button on the dongle, it is super simple to bind controllers and headsets. Anyone who just needs a straightforward solution at the lowest possible price would do well with the low-cost Cipon wireless adapter.
Leadjoy VX2 Keyboard and Mouse Adapter
Leadjoy’s VX2 AimBox uses Agility Translator, one of the most advanced keyboard and mouse adapter technologies available. Compatible with Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, and PlayStation 5, this no-delay wired game console adapter is easy to use and fast to connect. Advanced VX2 intelligent translation technology ensures 1:1 game accuracy, bringing players a comfortable gaming experience no matter what platform they’re on.
Moving in the opposite direction, sometimes players just need their keyboard and mouse, even when gaming on a console. While the Xbox is compatible with several wireless keyboards and mice, finding available USB ports can be a headache, especially if other peripherals (like headsets) are involved. The Leadjoy VX2 adapter lets players wirelessly connect their favorite keyboard and mouse to their favorite console.
This wireless adapter even has an additional slot for a wireless controller, giving players a one-stop shop for their peripheral needs. Additionally, this adapter is compatible with more than just the Xbox, offering Nintendo Switch and PlayStation gamers a chance to play with whatever controllers they like. The adapter also has an app available that allows for remapping controllers, changing the lighting, and adjusting ADS. With a decent-length cord that literally brings wireless connectivity to the forefront of console gaming, this wireless adapter is perfect for gamers who like to play on several platforms, albeit with the same controls every time.
MoKo Green Backlight Keyboard
Specifically designed to work with both Windows 10 and Xbox controllers, this backlit chatpad draws power from Xbox controllers directly. Just push this product into a modern Xbox controller and press the “Xbox” key to turn the chatpad on. With firm buttons to type, text, email, and enter codes, this controller keyboard is ideal for group chat while playing games and entering in-game codes. The keyboard connects to systems using a 2.4G wireless receiver, while still offering an audio jack port suitable for any 3.5 mm audio device. The ergonomic design is very comfortable and functional.
Not everyone wants a full-sized keyboard connected to their console, even if it is wireless. At the same time, PC players who enjoy controller gameplay are often inconvenienced when chatting with teammates using text. Luckily, a few years ago, Microsoft developed a handy little chatpad to attach to their controllers. Since then, the MoKo green backlit keyboard has risen to the top as the best wireless chatpad adapter for Xbox controllers.
This keypad is fairly simple in design, fitting between the handles on a controller and featuring easy-to-read keys. While many players don’t see the point in such chatpads, there are plenty of situations that make them very useful. Players who often buy gift cards to maximize gas or credit card rewards can quickly enter codes and get back to their game without any fuss. Similarly, throwing out quick lines into chat is a breeze even in the heat of battle with this chatpad. This MoKo chatpad clips right into the Xbox controller and uses a wireless dongle to ensure a stable connection. With convenient backlighting and a fairly ergonomic design, this is the best wireless chatpad for Xbox controllers.
The new Wingman XB 2 universal controller converter is compatible with Xbox 360, original Xbox consoles, and PC. The adapter also adds next-gen tech such as 5-speed turbo functions and button remapping. The Wingman XB 2 lets players enjoy retro Xbox games with more than 135 different wired and wireless controllers, including the Xbox Elite 2 and PlayStation’s DualSense, along with many other officially licensed controllers. Retro fans can enjoy every game on every platform with this wireless adapter!
Gaming gets more advanced every year, but sometimes nothing beats going back to retro titles. That being said, lots of things beat retro controllers, which are largely uncomfortable and unreliable. Retro players who love their original Xbox and Xbox 360 consoles don’t have to miss out on top-quality controllers anymore, thanks to the Brook Wingman XB 2 Converter.
This wireless adapter offers extremely low latency and makes using new controllers with old consoles a cinch! The adapter connects not only wireless controllers, such as the Playstation DualSense and Xbox Elite Series 2, but more obscure options such as classic gamepads, adaptive controllers, and fight sticks. Beyond the wide, 135+ controller compatibility, this wireless adapter allows players to remap their controls and activate multiple levels of turbo mode, giving them complete control over their retro gaming experience.
The adapter can also be used with a PC, allowing users to play modern games with their favorite controls without having to shell out more money for a separate adapter. Overall, the Wingman XB 2 Converter is the best wireless adapter for retro Xbox gamers.
What Makes a Good Wireless Xbox Adapter?
Wireless adapters for the Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S serve specific needs. As such, they need to offer dependable performance, especially if they’re connecting a player’s controllers to their console. Choosing a good Xbox adapter isn’t as tough as finding other niche gaming accessories, though it’s easier when players consider the following before making a purchase.
Functionality
Naturally, if an adapter is bought for a specific device, it needs to work with said device. Given Microsoft’s controversial approach to third-party controllers, players must make sure their wireless adapter will actually connect their peripherals to their console. At the same time, other types of adapters, such as audio adapters for headsets, should give players some wireless control over their devices.
Compatibility
Most adapters are built for a specific console, so wireless adapters for the Xbox One likely won’t work with the Xbox Series X, and Xbox 360 adapters are even more unfriendly. At the same time, some adapters claim to work with consoles and devices but just don’t. For instance, there are several Kinect adapters for the Xbox Series X available on the market, but Kinect games aren’t compatible with that console, so that adapter is useless. Users should always check the compatibility not only of the adapter but of the device they want to connect to their Xbox through it.
Cost
Sometimes connecting to an old device is more expensive than just replacing it. Players trying to get their old headset to work with their upgraded console may be better off with a budget headset instead. At the same time, sometimes spending a bit more on a higher-quality adapter can make it easier to connect a wider variety of compatible devices, such as controllers. Most wireless Xbox adapters should cost less than half of the item it’s connecting to.
Customer Reviews
Checking customer reviews can reveal issues before an adapter is purchased. Although some reviews are randomly negative or overly positive, skimming through them to see whether they’re mostly good or mostly bad can shed some light on the overall quality of an adapter. It’s also very important to note whether all of the negative reviews mention the same problem, as it’s less likely to be a fluke if everyone is complaining about it.
FAQ
Q: What does an Xbox wireless adapter do?
Most Xbox wireless adapters make it so players can use their Xbox controllers with PCs. Some wireless adapters also allow players to use their controllers with older Xbox consoles or to use certain hybrid controllers wirelessly, rather than through a cord connection.
Q: Does any Bluetooth adapter work with Xbox One controllers?
Yes, any Bluetooth 4.0 dongle will work with Xbox One S controllers, though older Xbox controllers may not be compatible.
Q: Does the Xbox wireless adapter work for headsets?
Yes, the Xbox wireless adapter for Windows works for connecting headsets to Windows devices. An adapter is not necessary for connecting compatible headsets to the Xbox One or Xbox Series X consoles.
