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 been delighting gamers with a steady stream of unique colors, patterns, and limited edition controllers across its Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles. If the official offerings don't quite meet your expectations, Xbox Design Lab empowers you to create your own controller design from scratch, offering limitless possibilities to match your style.
The Xbox Wireless Controller has seen only minor design tweaks since the launch of the Xbox Series X|S in 2020, maintaining its core functionality from the Xbox One era. Remarkably, you can seamlessly use Xbox One controllers on Xbox Series X|S and vice versa. If you're curious about the array of official controllers released since the Series X|S generation began, we've compiled a comprehensive list below. From standard to special edition and limited edition controllers, explore every Xbox controller color by release date.
For those seeking alternatives, our guide to the best Xbox controllers offers additional options to enhance your gaming experience.
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)
3
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Launched alongside the Xbox Series X in 2020, the slightly redesigned Xbox Wireless Controller introduced the new Share button, a hybrid D-pad, and textured grips and triggers.
Robot White Xbox Controller
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Released November 10, 2020
Xbox Wireless Controller (Robot White)
2
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The Robot White controller was released alongside the Xbox Series S in 2020 and shares identical functionality with its Series X counterpart, distinguished by its striking white color.
Shock Blue Xbox Controller
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Released November 10, 2020
Xbox Wireless Controller (Shock Blue)
4
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Completing the initial trio of controller colors launched with the Xbox Series X|S, the Shock Blue controller was the only vibrant color option available in the early months of the new generation.
Pulse Red Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 9, 2021
Released February 9, 2021
Xbox Wireless Controller (Pulse Red)
8
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The Pulse Red Xbox controller was released just before Valentine's Day 2021, providing a bold and romantic gift option for gaming enthusiasts.
Electric Volt Xbox Controller
Release Date: April 27, 2021
Released April 27, 2021
Xbox Wireless Controller (Electric Volt)
2
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Xbox's next release was the eye-catching Electric Volt color, reminiscent of Mountain Dew and highlighters, making it a standout choice for gamers.
Deep Pink Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 17, 2022
Released May 17, 2022
Xbox Wireless Controller (Deep Pink)
1
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The only standard controller released in 2022, the Deep Pink Xbox controller boasts a vibrant pink color with matching buttons, appealing to those who love a splash of color.
Velocity Green Xbox Controller
Release Date: March 7, 2023
Released March 7, 2023
Xbox Wireless Controller (Velocity Green)
4
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Announced and released on the same day in 2023, the Velocity Green controller marked the first time Xbox offered a solid green controller since the transparent Xbox Controller S nearly 20 years ago.
Astral Purple Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 3, 2023
Released October 3, 2023
Xbox Wireless Controller (Astral Purple)
6
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The most recent standard edition controller, released nearly two years ago, features a rich purple color reminiscent of the console-exclusive Fortnite Xbox One controller, albeit without the gradient effect.
Every Special Edition Color
In addition to the standard colors, Xbox has released a variety of "special edition" colors and patterns over the years. While some can be recreated through Xbox Design Lab, retail versions may be available only through third-party resellers or refurbished models.
Daystrike Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 4, 2021
Released May 4, 2021
Xbox Wireless Controller (Daystrike Camo Special Edition)
7
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The first camo controller for the Xbox Series X|S generation, released in 2021, featured a striking red camo pattern with deep red matching buttons.
Aqua Shift Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: August 31, 2021
Released August 31, 2021
Xbox Wireless Controller (Aqua Shift Special Edition)
4
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The debut of the three "Shift series" special edition controllers, the Aqua Shift controller boasts a shimmering blue color with dual-color swirls on the textured grips.
Mineral Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: September 28, 2022
Released September 28, 2022
Xbox Wireless Controller (Mineral Camo Special Edition)
1
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The fourth camo-themed Xbox controller and the second during the Xbox Series X|S generation, Mineral Camo featured a unique color scheme with blues, purples, and teals.
Lunar Shift Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 11, 2022
Released October 11, 2022
Xbox Wireless Controller (Lunar Shift Special Edition)
4
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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.
Stellar Shift Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 7, 2023
Released February 7, 2023
Xbox Wireless Controller (Stellar Shift Special Edition)
4
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The final member of the Shift series, Stellar Shift, offers a mesmerizing blue-purple color that evokes "deep space vibes" and includes a special dynamic background for your Xbox console when paired.
Arctic Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 2023
Released May 2023
Xbox Wireless Controller (Arctic Camo Special Edition)
3
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A re-release of an earlier Xbox One version with updated features for the Xbox Series X|S era, the Arctic Camo controller was quietly released in the US in 2023 and became available worldwide in 2024.
Stormcloud Vapor Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: August 8, 2023
Released August 8, 2023
Xbox Wireless Controller (Stormcloud Vapor Special Edition)
4
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The first of three "Vapor series" special edition controllers, Stormcloud Vapor features a blue-and-black swirled 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)
2
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The Gold Shadow special edition controller, the first new entry in the "Shadow series" since 2017, features a gradient from gold to black with a matching gold D-pad.
Dream Vapor Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 6, 2024
Released February 6, 2024
Xbox Wireless Controller (Dream Vapor Special Edition)
4
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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. Concurrently, Xbox added the Vapor series to Xbox Design Lab for further customization.
Nocturnal Vapor Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: April 9, 2024
Released April 9, 2024
Xbox Wireless Controller (Nocturnal Vapor Special Edition)
3
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The final entry in the "Vapor series," Nocturnal Vapor, released in 2024, features swirling earthy tones but, interestingly, 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)
3
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Bringing back the fan-favorite transparent controllers reminiscent of the 90s and early 2000s, Sky Cipher released in late 2024 with a stunning see-through blue design and matching grips.
Ghost Cipher Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 8, 2024
Released October 8, 2024
Xbox Wireless Controller (Ghost Cipher Special Edition)
3
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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 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)
4
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The 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)
2
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Released about a year before the Xbox Series X|S, the second edition of the Xbox Elite controller included upgrades like better grips, increased customization, and a redesigned D-pad that influenced the future Xbox Wireless Controller updates.
White Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: September 21, 2022
Released September 21, 2022
Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 - Core (White)
2
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Released in 2022 as a more affordable alternative to the standard Elite Series 2 controller, the Elite Core controller features the same design but includes only the thumbstick adjustment tool. Additional customizable parts can be purchased separately with the 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)
1
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This version of the Elite Core controller, released in 2023, features a red faceplate, red buttons, and black grips.
Blue Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: March 28, 2023
Released March 28, 2023
Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 - Core (Blue)
2
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Complementing its red counterpart, the Blue Elite Core controller, released in 2023, features a blue faceplate, matching buttons, and black grips.
Limited Edition Xbox Controllers
Out April 30
Xbox Wireless Controller - Doom: The Dark Ages Limited Edition
5
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For those who seek something beyond standard and special editions, Xbox offers a range of limited edition controllers. Since the launch of the Xbox Series X|S, notable releases include controllers themed around 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, newly announced.
Xbox has also ventured into unconventional territory with unique designs like the furry Sonic-themed controllers from a 2022 sweepstakes to promote Sonic 2, and cheeky designs featuring Deadpool & Wolverine's literal asses on the back of the controller.
Other noteworthy limited edition controllers include an environmentally-friendly model made from recycled plastics and ground-up Xbox One controller parts, a transparent black controller celebrating Xbox's 20th anniversary, and another entry in the "Vapor series" that stirred controversy due to its poorly-timed tagline.
Arguably the most significant development during the Series X|S generation has been the return of Xbox Design Lab in 2021. This platform not only allows you to customize your perfect controller but also to create exclusive designs featuring popular franchises like Fallout and Call of Duty, enhancing your gaming experience with personalized flair.