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 released a steady stream of unique colors, patterns, and limited edition controllers across its Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles. And, if the official offerings aren't enough for you, Xbox Design Lab allows you to go wild creating your own controller design from scratch.
Aside from some minor tweaks to the design when the Xbox Series X|S launched in 2020, the Xbox Wireless Controller has largely gone unchanged since the Xbox One era. Even better, you can use your Xbox One controllers on Xbox Series X|S and vice-versa. But, if you're curious just *how* many official controllers Xbox has released since the beginning of the Series X|S generation, we've got you covered. Check out the full rundown below of every Xbox controller color by release date, including standard, special edition, and limited edition controllers.
If you're looking for a good alternative, you can also check out our guide to more of the best Xbox controllers.
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Released November 10, 2020
See it at Amazon
Released alongside the Xbox Series X in 2020, the slightly redesigned Xbox Wireless Controller featured the new Share button, hybrid D-pad, and textured grips and triggers.
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Released November 10, 2020
See it at Amazon
The Robot White controller released alongside the Xbox Series S in 2020 and is identical in functionality to its Series X counterpart aside from its stark white color.
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Released November 10, 2020
See it at Amazon
Rounding out the trio of original controller colors debuting alongside the Xbox Series X|S, the Shock Blue controller was the only actual color available for the new generation for its first few months.
Release Date: February 9, 2021
Released February 9, 2021
See it at Amazon
The Pulse Red Xbox controller was released just before Valentine's Day 2021, and what better way to show your love than to buy your partner this vibrant red controller?
Release Date: April 27, 2021
Released April 27, 2021
See it at Amazon
Xbox's next controller was the striking Electric Volt color, which falls somewhere between Mountain Dew and a highlighter. It's definitely a head-turner.
Release Date: May 17, 2022
Released May 17, 2022
See it at Amazon
The only standard controller option released in 2022 was the Deep Pink Xbox controller, featuring a vibrant pink color with matching buttons.
Release Date: March 7, 2023
Released March 7, 2023
See it at Amazon
Announced and released on the same day in 2023, the Velocity Green controller is surprisingly the first plain all-green controller released by Xbox since the transparent Xbox Controller S nearly 20 years ago.
Release Date: October 3, 2023
Released October 3, 2023
See it at Amazon
The most recent standard edition controller released nearly two years ago and features a rich, purple color that's as close in color as you're going to get to the console-exclusive Fortnite Xbox One controller, but without the gradient effect.
In addition to the standard colors above, Xbox has released a slew of "special edition" colors and patterns over the years. While some of these can be recreated today in Xbox Design Lab, if you're looking to pick up a retail version, your options may be limited to third-party resellers or refurbished models.
Release Date: May 4, 2021
Released May 4, 2021
See it at Walmart
The first camo controller option for the Xbox Series X|S generation was released in 2021 and featured a red camo pattern with deep red matching buttons.
Release Date: August 31, 2021
Released August 31, 2021
See it at Walmart
As the debut option for the three "Shift series" special edition controllers, the Aqua Shift controller features a shimmering blue color and is the first special edition controller to have dual-color swirls on the textured grips.
Release Date: September 28, 2022
Released September 28, 2022
See it at Walmart
Mineral Camo, the fourth camo-themed Xbox controller (second during the Xbox Series X|S generation) released featured a unique color scheme that included blues, purples, and teals.
Release Date: October 11, 2022
Released October 11, 2022
See it at Verizon
The Lunar Shift controller was released in 2022 and was inspired by the "awe-inspiring aura of the moon" as its unique color shifts from gold to silver.
Release Date: February 7, 2023
Released February 7, 2023
See it at GameStop
The final member of the Shift series, Stellar Shift, featured a mesmerizing blue-purple color that exuded "deep space vibes" and came with a special dynamic background for your Xbox console when paired.
Release Date: May 2023
Released May 2023
See it at Walmart
Interestingly enough, the Arctic Camo controller was actually a re-release of an earlier Xbox One version, but with the updated features of the modern Xbox Series X|S-era controllers. It was quietly released in the US in 2023 and made its way to the rest of the world in 2024.
Release Date: August 8, 2023
Released August 8, 2023
See it at GameStop
The first of three "Vapor series" special edition controllers, Stormcloud Vapor featured a blue-and-black swirled design, matching grips, and a dynamic background for your console.
Release Date: October 17, 2023
Released October 17, 2023
See it at GameStop
The Gold Shadow special edition controller was the first new entry in the "Shadow series" since 2017 and featured a gradient gold to black design with a matching gold D-pad.
Release Date: February 6, 2024
Released February 6, 2024
See it at GameStop
The Dream Vapor controller is the second in the "Vapor series" and features a dreamy pink-and-purple swirl with matching grips plus a dynamic background unlocked on your Xbox when paired. Around the same time, Xbox also added the Vapor series to Xbox Design Lab for even more customization.
Release Date: April 9, 2024
Released April 9, 2024
See it at GameStop
The final entry in the "Vapor series," Nocturnal Vapor, was released in 2024 and featured swirling, earthy tones, but didn't include a matching dynamic background for some reason.
Release Date: August 13, 2024
Released August 13, 2024
See it at Amazon
Ah, yes. We've finally made it back to the fan-favorite transparent controllers reminiscent of the 90s and early 2000s. Sky Cipher was released in late 2024 and featured a stunning see-through blue design with matching grips.
Release Date: October 8, 2024
Released October 8, 2024
See it at Amazon
The second transparent color in the "Cipher series" is the Ghost Cipher special edition controller, which featured a clear see-through design and striking gold D-pad. Alongside its announcement, Xbox also revealed that transparent shells were also available for Elite controllers in Xbox Design Lab.
Release Date: February 4, 2025
Released February 4, 2025
See it at Amazon
The final Cipher color, and most recently released special edition Xbox controller as of this writing, is the Pulse Cipher controller that features a deep red transparent hue as well as matching buttons and grips.
Release Date: November 4, 2019
Released November 4, 2019
See it at Amazon
Released about a year before the Xbox Series X|S, the second edition of the Xbox Elite controller featured a number of upgrades including better grips, more customization, and a redesigned D-pad that would go on to inspire the future Xbox Wireless Controller update.
Release Date: September 21, 2022
Released September 21, 2022
See it at Target
Released in 2022 as a lower-cost alternative to the standard Elite Series 2 controller, the Elite Core controller features the same design but only includes the thumbstick adjustment tool. If you're interested in picking up the rest of the customizable parts, you can purchase a Complete Component Pack from Microsoft for $60.
Release Date: March 28, 2023
Released March 28, 2023
See it at Walmart
Released in 2023, this version of the Elite Core controller features a red faceplate, red buttons, and black grips.
Release Date: March 28, 2023
Released March 28, 2023
See it at Walmart
When there's a red version, there's almost always a blue version to accompany it. Released alongside its red-hued counterpart, the Blue Elite Core controller features—you guessed it—a blue faceplate, matching buttons, and black grip.
Out April 30
See it at Amazon
If standard and special edition controllers don't tickle your fancy, Xbox is no stranger to limited edition controllers either. Since the launch of the Xbox Series X|S, there have been a number of limited edition controllers for Xbox games such as Forza Horizon 5, Starfield, a Halo Infinite-themed Elite Controller, and most recently, a special edition controller for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. The latest option is the Doom: The Dark Ages controller that was just announced.
There have also been some...odd choices to say the least. In 2022, Xbox held a sweepstakes to win furry Sonic-themed controllers to promote Sonic 2, as well as some *cheeky* designs featuring Deadpool & Wolverine's literal asses on the back of the controller.
Some other newsworthy controllers include an environmentally-conscious controller made from recycled plastics and ground-up Xbox One controller parts, a transparent black controller to celebrate Xbox's 20th anniversary, and another entry in the "Vapor series" that caused Xbox to come under fire for its poorly-timed tagline.
Arguably the biggest controller announcement during the Series X|S generation, though, is the return of Xbox Design Lab in 2021. Not only can you customize your perfect controller, but you can also create exclusive designs featuring popular franchises like Fallout and Call of Duty.
LATEST ARTICLES 30
2025-05
While Magic: The Gathering’s recent crossovers with franchises like Final Fantasy and Spider-Man have taken center stage, the next expansion is quietly making waves. Titled Tarkir: Dragonstorm, this set marks a return to Magic’s iconic plane of Tarkir, and we’ve secured an exclusive first look at fi
Author: ThomasReading:0
30
2025-05
HBO has officially unveiled the highly anticipated cast for the iconic roles of Harry Potter, Hermione Granger, and Ron Weasley in its upcoming television adaptation of the beloved series. Dominic McLaughlin has been selected to portray Harry Potter, with Arabella Stanton stepping into the shoes of
Author: ThomasReading:0
30
2025-05
Sonic Rumble, despite not having officially launched globally yet, has already introduced its first crossover event featuring some of SEGA's most iconic characters. Dubbed "Crossover Event #0: SEGA Stars," this event runs until May 7th, just before the game’s worldwide debut on May 8th.Currently in
Author: ThomasReading:0
29
2025-05
If you're a fan of Marvel Rivals, you've likely been following the buzz surrounding Season 2 and its impact on gameplay. Despite the introduction of exciting new content like characters, maps, and modes, the balance changes have sparked controversy, particularly affecting the Strategist class. Tradi
Author: ThomasReading:0
