Amazon's Fire TV family isn't exactly built for gaming, but thanks to its Android base, there are some casual games on its store for you or your kids to enjoy. Controller support is built-in, and you don't need to use Amazon's own (which itself isn't supported by some of the latest devices). Luckily, it's super simple to pair an Xbox One controller. Whether you want to game or just control the Fire TV, it's simple to do with your existing Xbox controller.
Products used in this guide
- Affordable video streamer: Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K ($50 at Amazon)
- Best controller around: Xbox One Controller ($53 at Amazon)
How to pair an Xbox One controller to Amazon Fire TV
A caveat: if you're using the original, first-gen Xbox One controller or the first-gen Xbox Elite Wireless controller, you won't be able to do this. Neither of those controllers support Bluetooth, which is necessary for pairing. The current standard controller, as shipped with all consoles from the Xbox One S launch, and the Series 2 Elite controller are fine.
Similarly, if you're using a third-party controller that is wired or simply doesn't support Bluetooth, you cannot use it here, either.
- On your Fire TV scroll over to settings.
- Select remotes & Bluetooth devices.
- Select game controllers.
- Select add new game controller.
- Next, make sure your Xbox One controller is turned on.
- Press and hold the pair button until the Xbox logo button flashes steadily.
- When the Fire TV detects your controller, choose it from the list.
You can now not only use your Xbox One controller to play games but to navigate the Fire TV and control media playback. It's even supported for entering PIN codes for access to restricted content. The B button is recognized to go back as it would be on the Xbox One, and the only differences in function to the Alexa Voice Remote are the lack of direct volume control and access to Alexa voice search.
Our top equipment picks
Amazon's newer Fire TV devices support the Xbox One controller, but if we were picking one, it'd be the affordable Fire TV Stick 4K.
4K HDR support and a really attractive price tag
Get all the content you want in up to 4K resolution with HDR in something not much bigger than a USB stick and at an incredibly attractive price.
For a double whammy, you can also run the Fire TV Stick 4K into the HDMI input on your Xbox One and view it through the TV app, saving space on your actual TV. But if you're using a controller with it in this way, you'd have to have a second one connected only to the console.
Additional Equipment
Any current generation official Xbox One controller will work with the Fire TV, but if you're in the market for a new one, there are plenty of designs from which to choose. This grey/green combination is one of our current favorites.
Xbox One controller ($53 at Amazon)
Control your Xbox or your Fire TV in some serious style with the grey and green Xbox One controller.
