The “Xinput1_3.dll not found” error prevents many Windows users from launching their games. This message appears when your system cannot locate this essential DirectX file.
What is XINPUT1_3.dll?
XINPUT1_3.dll is a DirectX component developed by Microsoft. DirectX handles input from Xbox controllers and other gaming peripherals. This file enables communication between your game controllers and Windows applications.
Games require this component to process controller inputs correctly. Without it, applications that depend on controller support will fail to launch.
Try These Fixes
Work through these solutions in order until the error resolves:
- Restart your computer
- Update Microsoft DirectX
- Reinstall the affected program
- Download the missing DLL file
- Copy the file from another PC
- BONUS TIP: Update your graphics driver
Fix 1: Restart Your Computer
Restart your system completely. Temporary errors often disappear after a fresh boot. Shut down your PC, wait 30 seconds, then power it back on.
Fix 2: Update Microsoft DirectX
Updating DirectX typically resolves Xinput1_3.dll errors.
1) For DirectX 9, download the DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer from Microsoft’s website.
2) For DirectX 10, 11, and 12, these versions are built into Windows 7, 8, 10, and 11. Update them through Windows Update:
- Open Settings
- Navigate to Update & Security
- Click Check for updates
- Install any available DirectX updates
3) Check your game’s installation media. The setup files may include a DirectX installer optimized for that specific program.
Fix 3: Reinstall the Affected Program
Corrupted program files can trigger this error. Uninstall the problematic software completely. Download a fresh copy from the official source. Run the installer again.
Many game installers bundle required DirectX components automatically.
Fix 4: Download the Missing DLL File
Download Xinput1_3.dll separately from a trusted DLL repository.
1) Visit a reputable DLL website and search for Xinput1_3.dll.
2) Select the appropriate version for your system:
| System Type | Version Needed |
|---|---|
| 64-bit Windows | 64-bit version |
| 32-bit Windows | 32-bit version |
3) Place the downloaded file in C:\Windows\System32.
Fix 5: Copy the File from Another PC
Transfer Xinput1_3.dll from a working computer.
1) Locate another PC running the same Windows version with current updates installed.
2) Navigate to C:\Windows\System32 on the working computer. Find Xinput1_3.dll in this directory.
3) Copy the file to a USB drive. Transfer it to the same location on your affected system.
BONUS TIP: Update Your Graphics Driver
Graphics driver updates sometimes resolve DirectX-related issues. Newer drivers also improve gaming performance.
Update your driver through:
- Device Manager in Windows
- Your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel)
- Automatic driver update utilities
Download the latest driver for your graphics card model. Install it following the provided instructions.
Common Error Messages
| Error Message | Meaning |
|---|---|
| The program can’t start because Xinput1_3.dll is missing | System cannot locate the required file |
| Xinput1_3.dll was not found | File has been deleted or moved |
| This application failed to start | Program requires Xinput1_3.dll to run |
Why This File Matters
Xinput1_3.dll provides essential functions:
- Controller input processing for Xbox controllers
- Gamepad button mapping and response
- Vibration feedback control
- Battery status monitoring for wireless controllers
Without this file, games cannot recognize or respond to controller inputs. Keyboard and mouse functionality remains unaffected.
FAQs
Outdated DirectX, corrupted game files, or incomplete Windows updates cause this error. Missing system files after malware removal also trigger it.
Download from reputable sources only. Verify files with antivirus software before installation. Official DirectX updates are safer than individual DLL downloads.
Place it in C:\Windows\System32 for 64-bit systems. Some games require the file in their installation folder instead of the system directory.
Yes, DirectX updates resolve most Xinput1_3.dll errors. DirectX packages include all necessary DLL files. Update through Windows Update or Microsoft’s website.
Games requiring controller support won’t launch. Mouse and keyboard games function normally. Install the missing file to enable controller-based games.
