"Xbox Series X|S Controller Colors Available Now"
If there's any console manufacturer that truly embraces customization and color variety in its controllers, it's Xbox. For more than a decade, Xbox has consistently released a diverse array of unique colors, patterns, and limited edition controllers across its Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles. And, if the official offerings don't meet your expectations, Xbox Design Lab provides the freedom to craft your own controller design from scratch, allowing for unparalleled personalization.
Since the launch of the Xbox Series X|S in 2020, the Xbox Wireless Controller has seen only minor design tweaks from its Xbox One counterpart. A key advantage is the seamless compatibility between Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S controllers, enabling users to utilize their existing controllers across both console generations. Curious about the range of official controllers Xbox has released during the Series X|S generation? We've compiled a comprehensive list below, detailing every Xbox controller color by release date, including standard, special edition, and limited edition models.
For those interested in alternatives, be sure to explore our guide on the best Xbox controllers for more options.
All Xbox Controller Colors by Release Date
Carbon Black Xbox Controller
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Released alongside the Xbox Series X in 2020, the slightly redesigned Xbox Wireless Controller introduced the new Share button, a hybrid D-pad, and enhanced textured grips and triggers.
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Robot White Xbox Controller
Release Date: November 10, 2020
The Robot White controller, released with the Xbox Series S in 2020, matches the functionality of its Series X counterpart but stands out with its crisp white color.
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Shock Blue Xbox Controller
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Completing the trio of launch colors for the Xbox Series X|S, the Shock Blue controller was the sole vibrant option available in the early months of the new console generation.
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Pulse Red Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 9, 2021
The Pulse Red Xbox controller hit the market just before Valentine's Day 2021, offering a bold way to express your affection with its bright red hue.
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Electric Volt Xbox Controller
Release Date: April 27, 2021
Xbox's next controller, the Electric Volt, debuted with a striking color reminiscent of Mountain Dew or a highlighter, sure to catch anyone's eye.
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Deep Pink Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 17, 2022
The only standard controller released in 2022, the Deep Pink Xbox controller, boasts a vibrant pink color complemented by matching buttons.
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Velocity Green Xbox Controller
Release Date: March 7, 2023
Announced and released on the same day in 2023, the Velocity Green controller marks the first solid green controller from Xbox since the transparent Xbox Controller S almost two decades ago.
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Astral Purple Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 3, 2023
The latest standard edition controller, released nearly two years ago, features a rich purple color that closely resembles the console-exclusive Fortnite Xbox One controller but without the gradient effect.
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Every Special Edition Color
In addition to the standard colors, Xbox has introduced numerous "special edition" colors and patterns. While some can be replicated through Xbox Design Lab, retail versions might be limited to third-party resellers or refurbished units.
Daystrike Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 4, 2021
The first camo controller for the Xbox Series X|S generation, released in 2021, featured a red camo pattern with matching deep red buttons.
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Aqua Shift Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: August 31, 2021
As the first of the three "Shift series" special edition controllers, the Aqua Shift controller boasts a shimmering blue color and introduces dual-color swirls on the textured grips.
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Mineral Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: September 28, 2022
The fourth camo-themed Xbox controller and the second of the Xbox Series X|S generation, the Mineral Camo features a unique color scheme with blues, purples, and teals.
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Lunar Shift Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 11, 2022
Inspired by the "awe-inspiring aura of the moon," the Lunar Shift controller released in 2022 features a unique color shift from gold to silver.
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Stellar Shift Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 7, 2023
The final entry in the Shift series, the Stellar Shift controller, showcases a mesmerizing blue-purple color with "deep space vibes" and includes a special dynamic background for your Xbox console when paired.
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Arctic Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 2023
A re-release of an earlier Xbox One version with updated features for the modern Xbox Series X|S-era, the Arctic Camo controller was quietly released in the US in 2023 and reached the rest of the world in 2024.
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Stormcloud Vapor Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: August 8, 2023
The first of the "Vapor series" special edition controllers, Stormcloud Vapor features a blue-and-black swirled design, matching grips, and a dynamic background for your console.
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Gold Shadow Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 17, 2023
The first new entry in the "Shadow series" since 2017, the Gold Shadow special edition controller features a gradient gold to black design with a matching gold D-pad.
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Dream Vapor Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 6, 2024
The second in the "Vapor series," the Dream Vapor controller boasts a dreamy pink-and-purple swirl with matching grips and a dynamic background unlocked on your Xbox when paired. At the same time, Xbox added the Vapor series to Xbox Design Lab for further customization.
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Nocturnal Vapor Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: April 9, 2024
The final entry in the "Vapor series," Nocturnal Vapor, released in 2024, features swirling earthy tones but, unlike its predecessors, does not include a matching dynamic background.
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Sky Cipher Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: August 13, 2024
Reviving the nostalgia of the 90s and early 2000s, the Sky Cipher controller released in late 2024 features a stunning see-through blue design with matching grips.
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Ghost Cipher Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 8, 2024
The second transparent color in the "Cipher series," the Ghost Cipher special edition controller features a clear see-through design with a striking gold D-pad. Alongside its announcement, Xbox revealed that transparent shells are also available for Elite controllers in Xbox Design Lab.
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Pulse Cipher Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 4, 2025
The final Cipher color and the most recent special edition Xbox controller as of this writing, the Pulse Cipher controller features a deep red transparent hue with matching buttons and grips.
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Every Elite Controller Color
Black Xbox Elite Controller (Series 2)
Release Date: November 4, 2019
Released about a year before the Xbox Series X|S, the second edition of the Xbox Elite controller introduced several upgrades, including better grips, enhanced customization, and a redesigned D-pad that influenced the future Xbox Wireless Controller updates.
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White Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: September 21, 2022
Released in 2022 as a more affordable option compared to the standard Elite Series 2 controller, the Elite Core controller maintains the same design but includes only the thumbstick adjustment tool. Additional customizable parts can be purchased separately through Microsoft's Complete Component Pack for $60.
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Red Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: March 28, 2023
This 2023 release of the Elite Core controller features a red faceplate, red buttons, and black grips, offering a bold new look.
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Blue Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: March 28, 2023
Complementing the red version, the Blue Elite Core controller, released alongside its counterpart, features a blue faceplate, matching buttons, and black grips.
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Limited Edition Xbox Controllers
Out April 30
If standard and special edition controllers don't meet your expectations, Xbox also offers limited edition controllers. Since the launch of the Xbox Series X|S, several limited edition controllers have been released for games like Forza Horizon 5, Starfield, a Halo Infinite-themed Elite Controller, and most recently, a special edition for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. The latest addition is the Doom: The Dark Ages controller, which was just announced.
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Xbox has also ventured into more unconventional territory with limited edition controllers. In 2022, they held a sweepstakes for furry Sonic-themed controllers to promote Sonic 2, and introduced some playful designs featuring Deadpool & Wolverine's literal buttocks on the back of the controller. Other notable releases include an environmentally-conscious controller made from recycled plastics and ground-up Xbox One controller parts, a transparent black controller celebrating Xbox's 20th anniversary, and another "Vapor series" controller that sparked controversy due to its poorly-timed tagline.
Arguably, the most significant development during the Series X|S generation was the return of Xbox Design Lab in 2021. This service not only allows for complete controller customization but also offers exclusive designs featuring popular franchises like Fallout and Call of Duty.
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