Xbox Controllers and Rechargeable Batteries

BadGiraffe on 26/10/2020 - 00:08

I've never used a wireless XBox controller before. I've been playing on a corded controller for years and it's getting a bit squeaky and unresponsive, so I'm upgrading.

It seems I need batteries, but if want to charge and play I need separate kit. Can I not just throw some rechargeables in the controller and use the cable that comes with it to charge it up while I play?

Some third party kits have the USB charging port on the battery pack themselves, so you end up with a controller that has 2 USB ports, which is really bizarre.

Basically, I just want an XBox controller that's wireless, and I can charge it up when I want to by plugging a cable into it, like how I would with a PS controller.

Gaming Game Controller Microsoft Xbox One Accessory

Comments

  • bazingaa on 26/10/2020 - 00:20

    I have a rechargeable battery like that, got for ~ $9 2 years back from eBay. You need to plug the cable to the normal USB port in the controller to use it as a wired controller. I am charging the battery by plugging the USB cable directly to the battery.

    P:S: Mine is a original controller (not the Bluetooth version)

    • BadGiraffe on 26/10/2020 - 00:38

      Can you just put some Eneloops in the controller and recharge it with the cable? With the PS controller, you just plug it in while you're playing, and it will charge at the same time.

      So what I'm reading is that the USB port on the controller cannot be used for charging batteries… unless you have the official kit.

      Terrible design. Might be better if just get a PS4 controller for my PC then.

      • Richardc on 26/10/2020 - 05:42
        +1

        At least the Xbox controller doesn’t need repair from a battery problem. Get 4 rechargeable batteries and a charger, and you can always use it wirelessly.

      • Caped Baldy on 26/10/2020 - 08:57
        +1

        For PC compatibility, xbox is better since they're both microsoft.

        I've been using eneloops with a separate charger and xbox wireless adapter (bluetooth can be spotty).

  • Danstar on 26/10/2020 - 06:39
    +1

    Xbox Play and charge kit if you want to charge it in the controller (or 3rd party batteries, but they usually need you to change the back cover)

  • pegaxs on 26/10/2020 - 08:20
    +1

    I bought a kit from ebgames a while back and it’s a replacement battery pack that came with a charging stand that charges through the USB port. I just use the controller wirelessly and when I’m done, jam it back on the charging stand. That way, it’s always ready to use.

    It’s a direct battery replacement and doesn’t require the back cover to be changed.

    • BewareOfThe Dog on 26/10/2020 - 13:12
      +1

      I bought a similar kit about 4 years ago as well from EBGames. Maybe Energiser? It was $19.95 down from @$40-50.

      Black Friday sales are in 4 1/2 weeks time, so sit tight and watch this site on the day 27 November 2020. Look for JB Hifi, EB Games, Ebay, Amazon etc.
      In the meantime, just use AAs ($6 for 4 from Aldi) in line with a AA charger.

  • ilikeradiohead on 26/10/2020 - 08:50
    +1

    I have a bunch of eneloops that I rotate (when one gets low, I chuck them in the charger and pull out fully charged ones). I haven't tried, but I am 99% sure that they won't charge if you just plug it in.

  • BadGiraffe on 26/10/2020 - 11:57

    Thanks everyone. Just to be nice to our environment, compatibility, etc, I'll get some rechargeables. Kits are good, even unofficial ones, but in the end, separate batteries can be used for the controller and for other things as well. I'll get a spare battery door in case I break it.

Login or Join to leave a comment
Login Join