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 delighted gamers with a vibrant array of unique colors, patterns, and limited edition controllers across its Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles. And, if the official offerings don't quite meet your style, Xbox Design Lab lets you unleash your creativity by designing your own controller from scratch.
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 use your Xbox One controllers on the Xbox Series X|S and vice versa, ensuring seamless compatibility. Curious about the variety of official controllers released since the Series X|S generation began? 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, our guide to the best Xbox controllers is a valuable resource.
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 revamped Xbox Wireless Controller boasts a new Share button, a hybrid D-pad, and textured grips and triggers for enhanced 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, released with the Xbox Series S in 2020, mirrors the functionality of its Series X counterpart 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 introduced with the Xbox Series X|S, the Shock Blue controller was the sole splash of color available 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 AmazonJust before Valentine's Day 2021, the Pulse Red Xbox controller hit the market, offering a vibrant way to express your gaming passion.
Electric Volt Xbox Controller
Release Date: April 27, 2021
Released April 27, 2021### Xbox Wireless Controller (Electric Volt)
2See it at AmazonXbox's next addition, the Electric Volt controller, showcases a bold color that's reminiscent of a mix between Mountain Dew and a highlighter, sure to catch anyone's eye.
Deep Pink Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 17, 2022
Released May 17, 2022### Xbox Wireless Controller (Deep Pink)
1See it at AmazonThe Deep Pink Xbox controller, the sole standard color released in 2022, features a vivid pink hue with matching buttons for a cohesive look.
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 nearly two years ago, features a deep, rich purple 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 replicated today using Xbox Design Lab, retail versions may be harder to find, often limited to 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)
7See it at WalmartThe first camo-themed controller for the Xbox Series X|S generation, released in 2021, boasts 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 WalmartAs the inaugural option for the "Shift series," the Aqua Shift controller features 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)
1See it at WalmartMineral Camo, the fourth camo-themed Xbox controller and the second during the Xbox Series X|S generation, features a unique blend of 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)
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.
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 member of the Shift series, Stellar Shift, showcases a mesmerizing blue-purple color with "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)
3See it at WalmartA re-release of an earlier Xbox One version, the Arctic Camo controller was updated with modern Xbox Series X|S-era features and quietly launched in the US in 2023, extending to the rest of the world 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 of the "Vapor series" special edition controllers, Stormcloud Vapor features a captivating 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)
2See it at GameStopThe 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)
4See it at GameStopThe Dream Vapor controller, the second in the "Vapor series," boasts a dreamy pink-and-purple swirl with matching grips and a dynamic background unlocked on your Xbox when paired. Simultaneously, 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 "Vapor series" release, Nocturnal Vapor, showcases swirling earthy tones but uniquely 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 AmazonReviving the nostalgia of the 90s and early 2000s, the Sky Cipher controller 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 special edition controller offers a clear see-through design accented with a striking gold D-pad. Alongside its announcement, Xbox revealed that transparent shells were 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 latest special edition Xbox controller, the Pulse Cipher, 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 about a year before the Xbox Series X|S, the second edition of the Xbox Elite controller introduced several upgrades, including better grips, enhanced customization, 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 TargetLaunched in 2022 as a more affordable alternative to the standard Elite Series 2 controller, the Elite Core controller shares the same design but only includes 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)
1See it at WalmartReleased in 2023, this version of the Elite Core controller features a red faceplate, red buttons, and black grips for a bold 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 simultaneously, 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
5See it at AmazonFor those seeking something beyond the standard and special editions, Xbox offers limited edition controllers tied to popular games. Since the launch of the Xbox Series X|S, limited edition controllers have been released for titles 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 offering is the Doom: The Dark Ages controller, freshly announced.
Xbox has also ventured into more unique designs, such as the 2022 sweepstakes for furry Sonic-themed controllers promoting Sonic 2, and playful designs featuring Deadpool & Wolverine's literal butts on the controller's back.
Other noteworthy releases include an environmentally-conscious controller crafted 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, allowing gamers to craft their perfect controller and even create exclusive designs featuring popular franchises like Fallout and Call of Duty.