If there's any console manufacturer that truly embraces customization and color variety in its controllers, it's Xbox. For over a decade, Xbox has delighted gamers with a steady stream of unique colors, patterns, and limited edition controllers for its Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles. And if the official offerings aren't quite what you're looking for, Xbox Design Lab lets you unleash your creativity and design your own controller from scratch.
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 era counterpart. The best part? You can seamlessly use your Xbox One controllers on Xbox Series X|S, and vice versa. If you're curious about the array of official controllers Xbox has released since the Series X|S generation began, we've compiled a comprehensive list below. This includes every standard, special edition, and limited edition controller by release date.
For those seeking alternatives, don't miss our guide to the best Xbox controllers available on the market.
All Xbox Controller Colors by Release Date
Carbon Black Xbox Controller
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Released November 10, 2020### Xbox Wireless Controller (Carbon Black)
3See it at AmazonLaunched alongside the Xbox Series X in 2020, the slightly updated Xbox Wireless Controller introduced the new Share button, a hybrid D-pad, and textured grips and triggers for enhanced comfort and control.
Robot White Xbox Controller
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Released November 10, 2020### Xbox Wireless Controller (Robot White)
2See it at AmazonThe Robot White controller, launched with the Xbox Series S in 2020, mirrors its Series X counterpart in functionality but stands out with its striking white color.
Shock Blue Xbox Controller
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Released November 10, 2020### Xbox Wireless Controller (Shock Blue)
4See it at AmazonCompleting the initial trio of colors available at the launch of the Xbox Series X|S, the Shock Blue controller was the only vibrant color option for the first few months of the new generation.
Pulse Red Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 9, 2021
Released February 9, 2021### Xbox Wireless Controller (Pulse Red)
8See it at AmazonThe Pulse Red Xbox controller hit the shelves just before Valentine's Day 2021, offering a bold red hue perfect for showing some love to your gaming setup.
Electric Volt Xbox Controller
Release Date: April 27, 2021
Released April 27, 2021### Xbox Wireless Controller (Electric Volt)
2See it at AmazonThe Electric Volt controller, released in 2021, boasts a striking color that blends the vibrancy of Mountain Dew with the intensity of a highlighter, making it a standout choice.
Deep Pink Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 17, 2022
Released May 17, 2022### Xbox Wireless Controller (Deep Pink)
1See it at AmazonIn 2022, Xbox introduced the Deep Pink controller, featuring a vibrant pink color that extends to the matching buttons, adding a splash of color to your gaming experience.
Velocity Green Xbox Controller
Release Date: March 7, 2023
Released March 7, 2023### Xbox Wireless Controller (Velocity Green)
4See it at AmazonAnnounced and released on the same day in 2023, the Velocity Green controller marks the first all-green controller from Xbox since the transparent Xbox Controller S nearly two decades ago.
Astral Purple Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 3, 2023
Released October 3, 2023### Xbox Wireless Controller (Astral Purple)
6See it at AmazonThe most recent standard edition controller, released in late 2023, features a rich purple hue reminiscent of the console-exclusive Fortnite Xbox One controller, though without the gradient effect.
Every Special Edition Color
In addition to the standard colors, Xbox has released numerous "special edition" controllers with unique patterns and colors. While some designs can be recreated through Xbox Design Lab, finding retail versions may require exploring third-party resellers or refurbished options.
Daystrike Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 4, 2021
Released May 4, 2021### Xbox Wireless Controller (Daystrike Camo Special Edition)
7See it at WalmartThe first camo-themed controller for the Xbox Series X|S generation, released in 2021, features a striking red camo pattern with matching deep red buttons.
Aqua Shift Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: August 31, 2021
Released August 31, 2021### Xbox Wireless Controller (Aqua Shift Special Edition)
4See it at WalmartThe inaugural option in the "Shift series," the Aqua Shift controller boasts a shimmering blue color and dual-color swirls on the textured grips, setting a new standard for special edition designs.
Mineral Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: September 28, 2022
Released September 28, 2022### Xbox Wireless Controller (Mineral Camo Special Edition)
1See it at WalmartThe Mineral Camo controller, released in 2022, showcases a unique color palette of blues, purples, and teals, marking the fourth camo-themed controller from Xbox.
Lunar Shift Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 11, 2022
Released October 11, 2022### Xbox Wireless Controller (Lunar Shift Special Edition)
4See it at VerizonInspired by the "awe-inspiring aura of the moon," the Lunar Shift controller, released in 2022, features a color shift from gold to silver, capturing the moon's ethereal beauty.
Stellar Shift Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 7, 2023
Released February 7, 2023### Xbox Wireless Controller (Stellar Shift Special Edition)
4See it at GameStopThe final addition to the "Shift series," the Stellar Shift controller, released in 2023, features a mesmerizing blue-purple color inspired by deep space, complete with a special dynamic background for your Xbox console.
Arctic Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 2023
Released May 2023### Xbox Wireless Controller (Arctic Camo Special Edition)
3See it at WalmartA re-release of an earlier Xbox One version, the Arctic Camo controller, updated for the Xbox Series X|S generation, was quietly launched in the US in 2023 and later expanded globally in 2024.
Stormcloud Vapor Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: August 8, 2023
Released August 8, 2023### Xbox Wireless Controller (Stormcloud Vapor Special Edition)
4See it at GameStopThe first in the "Vapor series," the Stormcloud Vapor controller features a unique blue-and-black swirl design, matching grips, and a dynamic background for your console.
Gold Shadow Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 17, 2023
Released October 17, 2023### Xbox Wireless Controller (Gold Shadow Special Edition)
2See it at GameStopThe Gold Shadow controller, the first new entry in the "Shadow series" since 2017, features a gradient gold to black design with a matching gold D-pad, adding a touch of elegance to your gaming setup.
Dream Vapor Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 6, 2024
Released February 6, 2024### Xbox Wireless Controller (Dream Vapor Special Edition)
4See it at GameStopThe Dream Vapor controller, the second in the "Vapor series," showcases a dreamy pink-and-purple swirl with matching grips and unlocks a dynamic background on your Xbox when paired. Additionally, Xbox added the Vapor series to Xbox Design Lab for further customization options.
Nocturnal Vapor Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: April 9, 2024
Released April 9, 2024### Xbox Wireless Controller (Nocturnal Vapor Special Edition)
3See it at GameStopThe final entry in the "Vapor series," the Nocturnal Vapor controller, released in 2024, features swirling earthy tones but, unlike its predecessors, does not include a matching dynamic background.
Sky Cipher Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: August 13, 2024
Released August 13, 2024### Xbox Wireless Controller (Sky Cipher Special Edition)
3See it at AmazonBringing back 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.
Ghost Cipher Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 8, 2024
Released October 8, 2024### Xbox Wireless Controller (Ghost Cipher Special Edition)
3See it at AmazonThe second in the "Cipher series," the Ghost Cipher controller, released in 2024, features a clear see-through design with a striking gold D-pad. Alongside its announcement, Xbox revealed that transparent shells were also available for Elite controllers in Xbox Design Lab.
Pulse Cipher Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 4, 2025
Released February 4, 2025### Xbox Wireless Controller (Pulse Cipher Special Edition)
4See it at AmazonThe final "Cipher" color and the most recently released special edition Xbox controller as of this writing, the Pulse Cipher controller features a deep red transparent hue with matching buttons and grips.
Every Elite Controller Color
Black Xbox Elite Controller (Series 2)
Release Date: November 4, 2019
Released November 4, 2019### Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 (Black)
2See it at AmazonReleased a year before the Xbox Series X|S, the second edition of the Xbox Elite controller boasts numerous upgrades, including improved grips, extensive customization options, and a redesigned D-pad that inspired future updates to the standard Xbox Wireless Controller.
White Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: September 21, 2022
Released September 21, 2022### Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 - Core (White)
2See it at TargetIntroduced in 2022 as a more affordable option, the Elite Core controller shares the same design but comes with only the thumbstick adjustment tool. For additional customization, you can purchase a Complete Component Pack from Microsoft for $60.
Red Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: March 28, 2023
Released March 28, 2023### Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 - Core (Red)
1See it at WalmartReleased in 2023, this version of the Elite Core controller features a red faceplate, red buttons, and black grips, offering a bold and vibrant look.
Blue Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: March 28, 2023
Released March 28, 2023### Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 - Core (Blue)
2See it at WalmartComplementing its red counterpart, the Blue Elite Core controller, released in 2023, features a blue faceplate, matching buttons, and black grips, providing a cool and stylish alternative.
Limited Edition Xbox Controllers
Out April 30### Xbox Wireless Controller - Doom: The Dark Ages Limited Edition
5See it at AmazonFor those seeking something beyond standard and special editions, Xbox offers a range of limited edition controllers. Since the launch of the Xbox Series X|S, limited edition options have included designs 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, just announced.
Xbox has also ventured into some unconventional territory. In 2022, a sweepstakes offered furry Sonic-themed controllers to promote Sonic 2, and cheeky designs featuring Deadpool & Wolverine's literal butts on the back of the controller drew attention.
Other notable limited edition controllers include an eco-friendly model made from recycled plastics and ground-up Xbox One controller parts, a transparent black controller celebrating Xbox's 20th anniversary, and another "Vapor series" entry that stirred controversy due to its poorly-timed tagline.
Arguably the most significant announcement during the Series X|S generation was the return of Xbox Design Lab in 2021. This service allows you to customize your perfect controller and even create exclusive designs featuring popular franchises like Fallout and Call of Duty.
