Fix xinput1_3.dll Missing Error on Windows

If you’re seeing an error that says xinput1_3.dll is missing when launching a game or application, it means a required DirectX component isn’t properly installed or registered on your Windows system. This guide walks you through reliable fixes, from reinstalling DirectX to updating drivers, so you can get back to playing without reinstalling Windows.

What You’ll Need

• Administrator access to your Windows PC
• An internet connection to download official updates
• Your Windows version (10 or 11) and system type (32-bit or 64-bit)

Step-by-Step

1. Restart your computer. A simple reboot can clear temporary glitches that cause DLL errors. Save your work and restart, then try launching the program again.
2. Run the program as administrator. Right-click the game or application shortcut and select Run as administrator. If it works, the issue is likely a permissions problem.
3. Install the latest DirectX End-User Runtime. Microsoft provides a web installer that updates DirectX components. Download it from the official Microsoft website, run the installer, and follow the prompts. Restart your PC afterward.
4. Install Visual C++ Redistributables. Many games depend on these libraries. Download and install both the x86 and x64 versions from Microsoft’s official site. Restart after installation.
5. Update your graphics drivers. Outdated or corrupted GPU drivers can cause xinput1_3.dll errors. Visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) and download the latest driver for your specific model. Install and restart.
6. Run Windows Update. Ensure your system has all recent updates. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click Check for updates. Install any pending updates and restart.
7. Copy the DLL from another PC (optional). If you have another computer with the same Windows version, copy C:\Windows\System32\xinput1_3.dll (or C:\Windows\SysWOW64 for 32-bit apps) to a USB drive, then paste it into the same folder on your PC. This is a temporary workaround, not a permanent fix.
8. Reinstall the affected game or application. Uninstall the program, then reinstall it from the original source. This ensures all required files are placed correctly.
9. Run System File Checker (SFC). Open Command Prompt as administrator and type sfc /scannow. Let it complete (may take 15 minutes). If it finds issues, restart and run it again.
10. Use DISM to repair system image. In the same admin Command Prompt, type DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth and press Enter. This fixes underlying system corruption. Restart after completion.

Common Mistakes

• Downloading DLLs from random websites. These are often outdated, infected, or the wrong version, and can cause more harm than good.
• Copying the DLL to the wrong folder. 64-bit Windows uses System32 for 64-bit DLLs and SysWOW64 for 32-bit ones. Placing it in the wrong location won’t fix the error.
• Ignoring the 32-bit vs 64-bit distinction. If the game is 32-bit, it needs the 32-bit version of the DLL. Check the program’s requirements.
• Skipping the restart. Many fixes require a reboot to take effect; skipping it can make you think the fix didn’t work.

Tips

• Keep DirectX and drivers updated. Regularly check for updates, especially after a Windows feature update.
• Use the official Microsoft DirectX installer. It automatically detects your system and installs the correct components.
• Check the game’s installation folder. Some games include their own DirectX installer in a Redist or _CommonRedist folder. Run it.
• Create a system restore point before making major changes, so you can revert if something goes wrong.

Troubleshooting

If the error persists after following all steps, try these additional measures:

• Check if the program is compatible with your Windows version. Right-click the executable, go to Properties > Compatibility, and try running it in compatibility mode for an earlier Windows version.
• Scan for malware. Some infections replace or delete system DLLs. Run a full scan with Windows Defender or a reputable security tool.
• Check for third-party conflicts. Temporarily disable any overclocking software, RGB utilities, or game boosters that might interfere with DirectX.
• Use Event Viewer to get more details. Open Event Viewer, look under Windows Logs > Application, and find the error entry for the crashing app. The details may indicate a specific cause.
• If nothing works, consider a repair install of Windows. This reinstalls system files while keeping your personal files and apps. Use the Media Creation Tool to create bootable media and choose “Repair your computer.”

Frequently Asked Questions

What is xinput1_3.dll?

It’s a Microsoft DirectX component that handles input from Xbox controllers and other gamepads. Games that use controller support require it.

Why do I get this error if I don’t use a controller?

Many games include controller support by default, so they load the DLL even if you play with keyboard and mouse. The file is still required for the game to start.

Can I just download xinput1_3.dll from the internet?

It’s strongly discouraged. The file is often outdated or malicious. The correct fix is to install the official DirectX runtime, which provides the DLL automatically.

Will this error affect my other programs?

Usually not. The error is specific to the program that requires the DLL. Other applications that don’t use DirectX input should work fine.

How do I know if my Windows is 32-bit or 64-bit?

Go to Settings > System > About. Under “Device specifications,” you’ll see “System type” listing either 64-bit or 32-bit.

Is it safe to copy the DLL from another computer?

It can be a temporary workaround, but it’s not a permanent fix. The underlying issue (missing DirectX) remains, and the DLL may not match your system’s configuration. Always prefer the official installer.

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