Xbox Wireless Controller

Xbox Wireless Controller
Manufacturer	Microsoft
Type	Controller
Platform(s)	Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Windows 10, Windows 11, iOS, Android
Status	Released
Release Date	November 10, 2020
Connection type	USB-C, Bluetooth
Color(s)	Carbon Black, Robot White, Shock Blue, Pulse Red
Predecessor	Xbox One controller
Successor	Sebile

“	We think we have a good controller in the market today, so we didn't really feel like we needed to go back to square one to build (a new controller). But there were certain things that we've learned through doing the Elite controller and just listening to fans.	”
—Phil Spencer during an interview with GameSpot

The Xbox Wireless controller is the standard controller that is bundled with the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. The controller was released on November 10, 2020 in tandem with the consoles it is designed for.

The Xbox Wireless Controller is compatible with the Xbox Series X and S, as well as Windows PC's, Xbox One consoles and iOS and Android devices.

The controller was available in three colors at launch, those being Carbon Black, Robot White and Shock Blue. The Carbon Black variant is bundled with the Xbox Series X and the Robot White with the Xbox Series S. These colors are also available on their own. There are currently over fifteen different controller designs available for the Xbox Wireless controller.

Description

“	Experience the modernised Xbox Wireless Controller, designed for enhanced comfort during gameplay. Available in Robot White, Carbon Black and Shock Blue. Stay on target with textured grip, seamlessly capture and share content and game on Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Windows 10, Android and iOS.	”
—Description from Microsoft Store

Design

Variants available at launch.

The Xbox Wireless Controller is much like its predecessor, the Xbox One controller but with a few slight changes to be inclusive for all players.

Microsoft stated that size of the controller has been slightly changed to improve with accessibility and add extra comfort for all users. This was done without negatively affecting the experience for those with larger hands. Parts on the bumpers and triggers have also been slightly rounded to add more comfort as well.  

“	We're not the first ones to do a share button, so we're not going to say that we invented that, but we've heard feedback that sharing is such a part of a gaming experience now for many of our players. I wanted a dedicated button to share, so you'll see that.	”
—Phil Spencer to GameSpot

The most noticeable difference on the new controller is the new button between the and buttons. This is a feature that Xbox users have wanted for a long time and Microsoft are finally implementing it with the Xbox Series X.

The D-Pad has also been greatly changed on the new controller. Rather than designing a new D-Pad that may not be well received, Microsoft went with the decision of using a D-Pad from based off of the ones used on the Xbox One Elite controllers. Like the button, this was an improvement that was frequently suggested.

A tactile dot pattern has also been added to the controller's triggers bumpers and other parts on the back of the controller, which provides grip to improve feel and performance during gameplay. These extra grips can also be found on some special edition Xbox One controllers and because of the positive feedback received, it was added as a standard.

Rather than using micro-USB as a wired connection, the input on the controllers has been switched to USB-C just like the Series 2 Elite controllers. Surprisingly the controller still uses AA Batteries rather than a built-in rechargeable battery. However, a Play & Charge kit can be bought for the controller.

Gallery

Carbon Black

Packaging

Robot White

Packaging

Shock Blue

Packaging

Pulse Red

Packaging

Videos

Introducing a New Way To Share

Unboxing Xbox Series X-S Controllers

External links

• Xbox Series X: Making Gaming’s Best Controller Even Better - Xbox Wire