What Plugs Into the Bottom of an Xbox Controller | Port Decoded

The rectangular connector on the bottom of an Xbox controller is an accessory expansion port, not a USB port — it takes add-ons like the Xbox One Chatpad, and standard headphones go in the separate 3.5 mm jack instead.

That slot between the grips looks like a connector, so plenty of owners try to charge through it or plug in a thumb drive. Neither works. It carries a narrow accessory interface, and Microsoft’s own controller page notes that not every controller version even includes one.

What Fits In The Bottom Expansion Port?

The Xbox One Chatpad is the best-known accessory built for this port, and a limited set of licensed headset and accessibility accessories use it too. It is a fixed-purpose connector, so the compatible list is short and specific.

The Chatpad is a small keyboard that clips onto the controller for text entry and messaging, saving you from spelling names with the D-pad. It locks on mechanically so it doesn’t shift during play.

Standard wired headsets do not belong here — they plug into the round 3.5 mm stereo jack on the same bottom edge, a completely different connection. Microsoft also sells dedicated wired and wireless headsets that pair over Xbox Wireless.

Before buying, check the accessory’s compatibility listing against your exact controller revision. Microsoft’s controller page confirms the port exists for accessories but publishes no full Chatpad compatibility matrix, so the accessory maker’s documentation settles it.

Which Controllers Have The Port?

It depends on the controller revision, and Microsoft states plainly that not all controllers include an expansion port. Check your own controller’s bottom edge before ordering.

The current Xbox Wireless Controller works with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows 10 and 11 PCs, Android, and iOS per Microsoft’s specifications. Those claims cover the controller itself — not bottom-port accessory support on phones over Bluetooth.

• Xbox Series X|S: Microsoft says the console supports most Xbox One controllers and gaming accessories, but “most” leaves room for exceptions.
• Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2: a current controller family, though product material does not confirm every Elite revision takes the same expansion accessories.
• Xbox 360 controllers: Microsoft documents an expansion port on its Xbox 360 support page, but Xbox 360 accessories should not be assumed to work on Xbox One or Series hardware.

How Do You Set Up An Accessory?

Attach the accessory, then configure it through the Xbox Accessories app — the official route for firmware updates, profiles, and button assignments. Snap it onto the bottom connector and align it straight rather than forcing the plug at an angle; it clicks into place and sits flush.

1. Connect the controller or accessory to your console or Windows device.
2. On Xbox, open My games & apps > Apps > Xbox Accessories.
3. On Windows, install Microsoft’s Xbox Accessories app instructions, then sign in.
4. Select Configure for the connected accessory.
5. Open More options (…) for firmware updates, profile assignment, or other settings.

The app does not support Xbox 360 controllers or non-Xbox devices. On Windows it isn’t installed by default, and most features don’t work over Bluetooth — Microsoft recommends an Xbox Wireless Adapter or USB cable while configuring. No Game Pass or Xbox All Access subscription is needed; those console-page offers describe separate services.

Weighing which add-on to buy first? This roundup of tested Xbox controller expansion port accessories covers the options side by side.

What The Port Cannot Do

Charging, data transfer, storage drives, and generic USB gear are all outside what the expansion port handles. It is not a general-purpose USB connection — rechargeable packs charge through the USB-C port on the top edge, and storage stays with the console’s USB slots.

Microsoft also publishes no fixed US price for the Xbox One Chatpad or a full price list for expansion accessories, so check the live Microsoft Store or an authorized retailer rather than an old figure. Availability and bundled features vary by market and retailer.

Two mix-ups account for most confusion: reaching for the bottom port when headphones need the 3.5 mm jack, and assuming every controller has the port. A quick look at your controller’s bottom edge settles both.