How to calibrate an Xbox controller
Xbox has an official stick recalibration tool in the Xbox Accessories app. Update the controller first, run the tool, then measure again to see whether it helped.
Measure the drift first
Connect the controller to a computer and run the Xbox controller drift test. Note the peak offset of each stick so you have a number to compare.
Update the controller
Microsoft recommends updating before you recalibrate. On an Xbox, press the Xbox button and go to Profile & system → Settings → Devices & connections → Controllers & headsets, select the controller, then “…”; if it says Update, select Firmware version. On Windows 10/11, open the Xbox Accessories app and connect the controller with a USB cable or the Xbox Wireless Adapter – updating over Bluetooth isn’t supported. (Microsoft’s update guide)
Run the recalibration tool
Open the Xbox Accessories app – on the console under the same Controllers & headsets menu, on a PC from the Microsoft Store. On your controller’s screen select “…”, then Recalibration options. Pick the left or right stick and follow the on-screen instructions until “Calibration complete!” appears. The recalibration tool works with the Xbox Wireless Controller and the Elite Series 2 only.
Restart the controller
If the stick still misbehaves, hold the Xbox button for 5–10 seconds until the controller turns off, wait a few seconds, turn it back on and run the recalibration once more.
Windows calibration for other controllers
Windows also has a classic calibration dialog: press Win + R, type
joy.cpl, select the controller and choose Properties. If the window has a Settings tab, it offers Calibrate. Whether that tab appears depends on the controller’s driver; for Xbox controllers, use the Accessories app instead.Test again
Run the stick drift test again. It compares the new result with your last one for the same controller type.
Elite Series 2: curves are not calibration
In an Elite Series 2 profile you can change each stick’s sensitivity curve – Default, Delayed, Aggressive, Instant or Smooth. A curve changes how stick travel maps to in-game movement; it doesn’t move the centre, so it won’t hide drift. Microsoft’s guide to these settings doesn’t list a stick deadzone. For drift that shows up in only one game, Microsoft suggests checking that game’s deadzone setting. Test with the default profile on the Elite drift test for a raw reading.
When recalibration doesn’t help
Microsoft notes that the tool can’t fix drift caused by normal wear and tear. Test the controller on a second device: if it drifts there too, it needs a repair or replacement. See is stick drift covered by warranty? and how to fix stick drift.
Xbox controller calibration FAQ
Can you calibrate an Xbox controller?
Yes. The Xbox Accessories app on Xbox and Windows has a recalibration tool for the sticks and triggers of the Xbox Wireless Controller and the Elite Series 2. Update the controller before you use it.
Where is the recalibration option in the Xbox Accessories app?
Open the app, select “…” on your controller’s screen to open the device details, then select Recalibration options and choose the left or right stick.
Does recalibrating fix Xbox stick drift?
It can help with minor issues. Microsoft says the tool can’t fix drift caused by normal wear and tear; in that case the stick needs a repair or replacement.
Can I update an Xbox controller over Bluetooth on a PC?
No. Microsoft says updating over Bluetooth isn’t supported. Connect the controller to the PC with a USB cable or the Xbox Wireless Adapter and use the Xbox Accessories app.
Does the Elite Series 2 have a stick deadzone setting?
Its profiles let you change each stick’s sensitivity curve, but Microsoft’s guide to those settings doesn’t list a stick deadzone. Use the deadzone setting in your game instead.