How to Use Powers in Starfield (PC, Xbox & PS5 Controls)
How to equip and use Starborn powers in Starfield: the Powers menu, default keys for PC, Xbox and PS5, energy, Quantum Essence and the best powers to use.
Last updated: October 2026 · Patch 1.16.244
Starborn powers unlock as you complete temples during the main quest. Each power has to be equipped before you can use it. Here is how to do it on every platform.
How to Equip a Power
- Open the Powers menu: press K on PC, or open the data menu (Tab on PC, Menu button on Xbox) and pick Powers at the top.
- Select the power you want.
- Confirm it: left-click on PC, A on Xbox, X on PS5.
- To put it on your quickbar, press B on PC, Y on Xbox or Triangle on PS5.
How to Use Powers (Default Controls)
| Platform | Use equipped power |
|---|---|
| PC | Z |
| Xbox | LB + RB pressed together |
| PS5 | L1 + R1 (the bumper combo) |
Pressing both bumpers at once can be awkward. You can remap the power button under Settings › Controls/Bindings.
Energy and Quantum Essence
- Powers use energy, shown as a blue bar under your health. Each power’s cost is listed in the Powers menu.
- Quantum Essence boosts power regeneration for 60 seconds when used from the Powers menu.
- Since the Free Lanes update, Quantum Essence also upgrades powers. Starborn enemies and Starborn ships drop it.
Best Powers to Equip
The most commonly top-ranked powers are Particle Beam, Gravity Wave, Parallel Self, Void Form, Reactive Shield and Solar Flare. See how to unlock every one in our Starborn powers and temples guide, and how to build around them in the Starborn build.
Frequently Asked Questions
What button uses powers in Starfield?
Z on PC, LB + RB together on Xbox, and the same bumper combo (L1 + R1) on PS5. All can be remapped.
Why can’t I use my power?
You probably have not equipped it, or you are out of energy. Equip it in the Powers menu (K on PC) and wait for the blue bar to refill.
How do you get more powers?
Complete temples. After the main quest’s early missions, ask Vladimir for temple locations.