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 consistently released a diverse array of unique colors, patterns, and limited edition controllers for its Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles. If the official offerings don't satisfy your taste, Xbox Design Lab allows you to create your own custom controller design from scratch.
Since the launch of the Xbox Series X|S in 2020, the Xbox Wireless Controller has seen only minor design tweaks, maintaining its core design from the Xbox One era. The good news is that Xbox One controllers are compatible with Xbox Series X|S and vice versa. Curious about the range of official controllers 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 options.
For those seeking alternatives, be sure to check out our guide to the best Xbox controllers.
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 featured a new Share button, a hybrid D-pad, and textured grips and triggers.
Robot White Xbox Controller
Release Date: November 10, 2020
The Robot White controller, released with the Xbox Series S in 2020, mirrors the functionality of its Series X counterpart, distinguished by its striking white color.
Shock Blue Xbox Controller
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Completing the initial trio of controller colors for the Xbox Series X|S, the Shock Blue controller was the first color option available for the new generation for its first few months.
Pulse Red Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 9, 2021
The Pulse Red Xbox controller, released just before Valentine's Day 2021, offers a vibrant red option perfect for gifting to a loved one.
Electric Volt Xbox Controller
Release Date: April 27, 2021
The Electric Volt controller, released in April 2021, boasts a striking color that blends the hues of Mountain Dew and a highlighter, making it a real attention-grabber.
Deep Pink Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 17, 2022
The only standard controller released in 2022, the Deep Pink Xbox controller features a vibrant pink color with matching buttons, adding a splash of color to your gaming setup.
Velocity Green Xbox Controller
Release Date: March 7, 2023
Announced and released on the same day in 2023, the Velocity Green controller is the first all-green controller since the transparent Xbox Controller S nearly two decades ago.
Astral Purple Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 3, 2023
The most recent standard edition controller, released in October 2023, features a rich purple color reminiscent of the console-exclusive Fortnite Xbox One controller, but without the gradient effect.
Every Special Edition Color
In addition to standard colors, Xbox has introduced numerous "special edition" colors and patterns. While some can be replicated in Xbox Design Lab, retail versions may only be available through third-party resellers or as refurbished models.
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, features a striking red camo pattern with deep red matching buttons.
Aqua Shift Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: August 31, 2021
The debut of the "Shift series," the Aqua Shift controller, released in 2021, boasts a shimmering blue color and is the first special edition with dual-color swirls on the textured grips.
Mineral Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: September 28, 2022
The fourth camo-themed controller and the second for the Xbox Series X|S generation, released in 2022, features a unique color scheme blending blues, purples, and teals.
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, shifts from gold to silver, offering a mesmerizing color transition.
Stellar Shift Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 7, 2023
The final member of the Shift series, released in 2023, features a captivating blue-purple color reminiscent of deep space and includes a special dynamic background for your Xbox console when paired.
Arctic Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 2023
A re-release of an Xbox One version, the Arctic Camo controller, updated for the Xbox Series X|S generation, was quietly released in the US in 2023 and later worldwide in 2024.
Stormcloud Vapor Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: August 8, 2023
The first of three "Vapor series" controllers, released in 2023, 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
The first new entry in the "Shadow series" since 2017, released in 2023, showcases a gradient gold to black design with a matching gold D-pad.
Dream Vapor Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: February 6, 2024
The second "Vapor series" controller, released in 2024, features a dreamy pink-and-purple swirl with matching grips and a dynamic background unlocked on your Xbox when paired. Xbox also added the Vapor series to Xbox Design Lab for further customization around this time.
Nocturnal Vapor Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: April 9, 2024
The final "Vapor series" controller, released in 2024, features swirling, earthy tones, though it does not include a matching dynamic background.
Sky Cipher Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: August 13, 2024
A fan-favorite reminiscent 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
The second transparent color in the "Cipher series," 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
The final Cipher color and 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 about a year before the Xbox Series X|S, the second edition of the Xbox Elite controller featured upgrades like better grips, more customization, and a redesigned D-pad that inspired future updates to the Xbox Wireless Controller.
White Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: September 21, 2022
Released in 2022 as a lower-cost alternative to the standard Elite Series 2 controller, the Elite Core controller includes the same design but only the thumbstick adjustment tool. Additional customizable parts can be purchased separately through Microsoft's Complete Component Pack for $60.
Red Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: March 28, 2023
Released in 2023, this version of the Elite Core controller features a red faceplate, red buttons, and black grips, adding a bold color to the Elite lineup.
Blue Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: March 28, 2023
Released alongside its red counterpart in 2023, the Blue Elite Core controller features a blue faceplate, matching buttons, and black grips, offering a cool alternative.
Limited Edition Xbox Controllers
If standard and special edition controllers don't meet your expectations, Xbox offers limited edition options. Since the launch of the Xbox Series X|S, there have been numerous limited edition controllers tied to games like Forza Horizon 5, Starfield, Halo Infinite, and most recently, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6. The latest addition is the Doom: The Dark Ages controller, announced and set to be released on April 30.
Xbox has also released some unique limited edition controllers, including a sweepstakes for furry Sonic-themed controllers in 2022 to promote Sonic 2, and quirky designs featuring Deadpool & Wolverine's literal butts 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 stirred controversy due to its poorly-timed tagline.
Arguably, the most significant announcement during the Series X|S generation has been the return of Xbox Design Lab in 2021. This service allows gamers to customize their perfect controller and even create exclusive designs featuring popular franchises like Fallout and Call of Duty.
