
Best Answer:
- There are a few things you can do to try to fix Xbox 1 controller drift.
- First, make sure that your controller is properly calibrated.
- To do this, go to Settings > Kinect & devices > Devices & accessories, and select your controller.
- Then, select Calibrate.
- If calibrating your controller doesn’t fix the drift, try cleaning the thumbstick.
How to fix stick drift on Xbox One controller?
Short, sharp bursts should do the trick. After this is done, carefully wipe away any excess dirt and wiggle your sticks around the full range of motion for a couple of minutes. Hopefully, this will have fixed your issue. The more extreme way of fixing stick drift on your Xbox One or Series X controller is to take it apart.
How to fix an Xbox One controller?
Once you’ve got your hands on that, you can start the process of fixing your Xbox One controller. Turn it off first, of course, then use the air tube to blow at the bottom of your analog sticks. Move them around a bit as you do so, but make sure to not do it constantly as it can damage the controller if used too much.
Why is my Xbox One joystick drifting?
The potentiometer, a part connected to the joystick that's responsible for sending movement signals to your console, is an especially sensitive piece—a broken or defective one is likely to result in this issue. Before you start searching for how to take an Xbox One controller apart, try these simple steps to fix joystick drift.
Why does my Xbox One controller move when I press the button?
The more likely explanation is a phenomenon known as ‘stick drift’. This is where your controller’s analogue stick fails to centre itself properly after a directional push, resulting in involuntary camera or character movements. This issue is generally caused by wear and tear, and shouldn’t happen with a new controller.

How do I fix my Xbox One controller drift without taking it apart?
To fix Xbox One and Series X/S controller drift without opening them, you need to use cotton swabs to rub isopropyl alcohol on the rounded surface of the left or right analog stick. Then keep it for 30 sec aside, repeat the process 3-4 times, and your Xbox controller drift will be fixed now.
How do I fix my controller drift easily?
How to Fix PS4 Controller Analog Stick DriftReset your PS4 controller. Resetting the DualShock 4 can solve a lot of issues that suddenly pop up. ... Clean your PS4 controller. ... Get your PS4 controller repaired or replaced by Sony. ... Disassemble your PS4 controller to clean the analog stick. ... Replace the PS4 analog sticks.
What Causes Xbox controller drift?
The stick drift is usually caused by plastic dust (from the thumbstick wearing against the shell of the controller) gumming up the analog mechanism that tracks the position of the thumbstick.
What causes controller stick drift?
A common reason why controllers run into drift problems is that they are prone to deterioration, which will naturally occur with use. In more recent years, the life cycle of technology has shortened dramatically to promote further purchases (yay, capitalism), thereby further exacerbating the issue.
Why does my Xbox One controller drift?
One is something as simple as low batteries. A more common cause is dust or debris inside your controller. Over time, that grime can build up and affect the electrical components.
Why does my analog stick drift?
Analog stick drift can also be caused by damage to your controller, either from someone dropping it or excessive wear and tear. The potentiometer, a part connected to the joystick that's responsible for sending movement signals to your console, is an especially sensitive piece—a broken or defective one is likely to result in this issue.
How many sticks does an Xbox One controller have?
Your Xbox One controller has two analog sticks, or joysticks, that allow you to do a variety of things while you play. Usually, they work exactly how they're supposed to. But when analog stick drift occurs, objects you're controlling will move across the screen even when you're not touching any buttons.
How to fix Xbox One controller?
Once you’ve got your hands on that, you can start the process of fixing your Xbox One controller. Turn it off first, of course , then use the air tube to blow at the bottom of your analog sticks. Move them around a bit as you do so, but make sure to not do it constantly as it can damage the controller if used too much.
Why is my Xbox controller sending me pixelated?
While more commonly associated with the PlayStation 5’s DualSense or the Joy-Cons, this can also happen to the Xbox controller, as the three controllers all use essentially the same joystick design. This is where your controller’s analogue stick fails to centre itself properly after a directional push, resulting in involuntary camera or character movements.
Can you open up a controller that is under warranty?
However, we don’t recommend this course of action, especially if your controller is still under warranty. Opening up your controller will void its warranty, and you could end up having no controller at all if you mess up.
Can you take a stick drift controller to a Microsoft repair shop?
Again, this method is not advised. If you’re really worried about stick drift on your controller, it’s probably worth taking it to a Microsoft-approved repair specialist. However, this will cost you if it’s out of warranty.
