How to Fix Xbox Elite Controller Lagging Issue?

Input delay with Xbox Elite controllers can be attributed to outdated firmware, incorrect controller settings, or the display mode of your monitor. Additionally, modifying the controller’s keymap is known to sometimes trigger these issues.

The problem mainly stems from a software glitch, which requires a patch from the development team. In this article, we will guide you through several steps to eliminate the delay from your Xbox Elite controllers.

1. Switch Monitor Preset

Start by adjusting your monitor’s profile. Most monitors feature various modes tailored for different activities. For gaming, it’s advisable to switch your monitor to ‘Game Mode’.

Doing so can help reduce on-screen delay when using a controller. Access the on-screen menu using the monitor’s back buttons and enable the ‘Game’ preset.

The menu’s exact location will vary by manufacturer, but typically, it’s fairly straightforward to navigate once you enter the menu settings.

2. Change Controller’s Profile

For Xbox Elite controllers used on Windows, settings profiles are managed through the Xbox Accessories app. Certain profiles can inadvertently introduce response delays.

1. Connect your Elite Controller to your PC.
2. Launch the Xbox Accessories app, searchable from the Start Menu.

   

3. Select your controller and press Configure within the app.
4. Choose the currently enabled profile and select Edit.

   

5. Ensure that the Sensitivity curve option is not set to Delayed.

   

6. Select from Default, Instant, Aggressive, or Smooth.
7. Adjust the Right stick settings accordingly.
8. Test your changes within a game to verify if the delay still exists.

Employing the default keymaps on your PC can often lead to an input lag. Usually, this occurs due to software inconsistencies, thus it’s recommended to revert to the default keymaps until the issue is addressed.

1. Access the Mapping section in the right pane.
2. Select Restore to Default to reset the keymaps.

   

3. Once reset, check for ongoing input lag issues.

3. Update Controller Firmware

Outdated firmware can also lead to controller lag. To address this, update your controller’s firmware. Update your Xbox controller either through the console or a PC.

3.1. Using Xbox Console

1. Press the Xbox button on the controller.
2. Go to Profile & system > Settings.
3. Select the Devices & connections tab within Settings.

   

4. Choose Controllers & headsets or Accessories, depending on your console model.
5. On the Xbox controller screen, select the three dots.
6. Choose Firmware Version.
7. Click Update Now and follow the prompts.
8. Allow the update process to finish.

3.2. Using Windows

1. Open the Xbox Accessories app on your PC. Download it from the Microsoft Store if needed and connect your Xbox Elite Controller.

   

2. Connect the controller to the system via USB or the Xbox Wireless Adapter.
3. Select the three dots on the controller screen.
4. Click Update Now and follow the instructions for any available firmware updates.

   

5. After the update, assess if the delay issue still persists.

4. Enable Game Mode

Activating Game Mode in Windows can yield better performance during gameplay and may reduce a connected controller’s input latency.

1. Press Win key + I to open the Settings app.
2. Navigate to Gaming > Game Mode.

   

3. Turn on Game Mode using the available slider.

5. Power Cycle Xbox Elite Controller

If the previous solutions were ineffective, consider power cycling the Xbox Elite controller to reset it and clear any glitches.

To power cycle your controller:

1. Press and hold the Xbox button for 5 to 10 seconds until the controller shuts off.
2. After it has completely turned off, wait a few seconds and then press the Xbox button again to turn it back on.
3. Check if this rectifies the lag issues.

Should the lag with your Xbox Elite controller persist, consider contacting the support team for further assistance or a potential replacement.