If you love using a keyboard and mouse to play video games, you’re probably wondering: Can I play Xbox Cloud Gaming with keyboard and mouse? The answer is yes, kind of.
Xbox Cloud Gaming makes it easy to play Xbox games without needing an Xbox console. And while it works best with a controller, more and more games are starting to let you use a keyboard and mouse instead. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know so you can start gaming with your favorite setup today.
Let’s jump right in!
What is Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Xbox Cloud Gaming is a game streaming service from Microsoft. It’s part of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate and lets you play games from the cloud on different devices—like your PC, phone, tablet, or even some TVs. That means you don’t have to download or install anything to start playing.
Instead of the game running on your device, it runs on Microsoft’s powerful servers. You just need a good internet connection, and you can stream games like you’d watch a movie or TV show on Netflix.
Can You Use Keyboard and Mouse with Xbox Cloud Gaming?
Yes, but not for every game.
Right now, Xbox Cloud Gaming mainly supports controllers. But Microsoft is starting to add keyboard and mouse support to more games. That means you can already use your keyboard and mouse for some games in the cloud, and the list keeps growing.
Keep in mind:
- Some games fully support keyboard and mouse.
- Others may need a controller or do not support keyboard/mouse yet.
Why Use Keyboard and Mouse with Xbox Cloud Gaming?
There are many reasons why players prefer using a keyboard and a mouse:
- Better precision: Especially useful in shooting and strategy games.
- More control: You can use a lot more keys than a controller’s buttons.
- Save money: No need to buy a controller if you already have a keyboard and mouse.
- Familiar setup: PC gamers feel more comfortable using what they know.
What You Need to Get Started
Before you start playing Xbox Cloud Gaming with keyboard and mouse, make sure you have:
- An Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription
- A Microsoft account
- A PC or laptop that can open a web browser
- A good internet connection (10 Mbps minimum; 20 Mbps or more is better)
- A keyboard and a mouse (USB or Bluetooth are both fine)
- A supported browser: Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or Safari (the latest version)
Note: Playing on a Windows PC through a web browser is the best way to use keyboard and mouse right now.
How to Play Xbox Cloud Gaming with Keyboard and Mouse (Step by Step)
Let’s walk through it step by step:
Step 1: Go to Xbox Cloud Gaming
- Open your browser and go to https://xbox.com/play
- Log in with your Microsoft account (the one linked with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate)
Step 2: Find a Game
- Browse the huge list of Game Pass titles
- Use the search bar to find a favorite title, or look for games you haven’t played yet
Step 3: Launch the Game
- Click on a game to open it in the cloud
- Wait a few seconds for it to load (this depends on your internet speed)
Step 4: Use Your Keyboard and Mouse
- If the game supports keyboard/mouse, you’re good to go!
- Try moving the mouse or pressing the WASD keys to move
- Not working? It may be a game that only supports controllers (learn more below)
Which Xbox Cloud Games Support Keyboard and Mouse?
Here are some games that support keyboard and mouse in Xbox Cloud Gaming:
- Fortnite
- Minecraft
- Sea of Thieves
- Gears Tactics
- Grounded
- ARK: Survival Evolved
- Microsoft Flight Simulator
- Halo Infinite (some modes only)
Note: Not all game modes support keyboard and mouse. Also, not every game has 100% support. For example, you may be able to move with the keyboard, but still need a controller for menus.
To check if a game supports keyboard and mouse:
- Try launching it and test your devices
- Look up news and patch notes from Microsoft
- Visit community forums, Reddit, or Xbox support pages
What If a Game Doesn’t Support Keyboard and Mouse?
If the game doesn’t allow keyboard/mouse input, you still have options:
Option 1: Use a Controller
Plug in or connect an Xbox controller. This is always supported.
Option 2: Use Input Mapping Software
Some third-party tools let you “trick” the system into thinking your keyboard and mouse are a controller. This is called input emulation.
Popular options include:
- reWASD (paid, very detailed)
- JoyToKey (easy to use)
- AntiMicroX (open source/free)
Warning: Using these tools can break game rules in some multiplayer games. It’s best to use them for single-player or offline titles. Always read a game’s Terms of Service before using input emulators.
Pro Tips for Smooth Cloud Gaming with Keyboard and Mouse
Want to get the best experience possible? Try these expert tips:
Make your browser faster:
- Close unused tabs
- Enable hardware acceleration in browser settings
- Use a wired internet connection for fewer hiccups
Set up your controls:
- Customize keybindings in the game’s settings
- Start with low graphics/resolution if your internet is slow
Use the Xbox App on Windows:
- You can also play cloud games there
- It often runs smoother than using a browser
Keep everything updated:
- Update your browser, PC, and the Xbox app regularly
Use helpful gear:
- A good mouse, gaming keyboard, and headset can really improve your experience
Common Problems and Fixes
Problem: Keyboard and mouse don’t work
Fix: Make sure the game supports them. Try restarting the game or reconnecting your devices.
Problem: The game is slow or lagging
Fix: Check your internet speed. Close other apps. Lower resolution or graphics settings.
Problem: Weird keybinds or controls
Fix: Open the game’s control settings and change keybindings. You can also try input remapping software.
Problem: Game says “controller required”
Fix: It’s a game that doesn’t support keyboard and mouse (yet). Use a controller or input mapper for now.
The Future of Keyboard and Mouse Support
The good news? Microsoft is working hard to bring keyboard and mouse support to more cloud games. Game developers are being encouraged to add it, and more titles are expected to support it soon.
Eventually, you may be able to filter games in the Xbox Cloud Gaming library by keyboard/mouse compatibility.
Stay updated by checking:
- Xbox Wire announcements
- Patch notes from developers
- Xbox Insider Program updates
Final Thoughts
Learning how to play Xbox Cloud Gaming with keyboard and mouse brings flexibility and comfort—especially for PC gamers who love precision and speed. While not every game works with it just yet, more are being added all the time.
Whether you’re building castles in Minecraft, flying planes in Microsoft Flight Simulator, or fighting pirates in Sea of Thieves, using keyboard and mouse makes your experience even better.
So go ahead—log in, plug in, and dive into Xbox Cloud Gaming with the gear that feels right to you!
Thanks for reading—and happy gaming! 🎮🖱️⌨️