When it comes to embracing customization and color variety in gaming controllers, Xbox stands out as a leader in the industry. For over a decade, Xbox has delighted gamers with a continuous array of unique colors, patterns, and limited edition controllers for its Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles. And if the official selections don't quite meet your expectations, Xbox Design Lab offers the freedom to design your own controller from the ground up.
The Xbox Wireless Controller has seen minimal design changes since the launch of the Xbox Series X|S in 2020, maintaining its core functionality from the Xbox One era. The best part? Compatibility is seamless; you can use your Xbox One controllers with the Xbox Series X|S and vice versa. If you're eager to discover the full spectrum of official Xbox controllers released since the start of the Series X|S generation, we've compiled an exhaustive list for you. Below, you'll find a detailed breakdown of every Xbox controller color by release date, including standard, special edition, and limited edition options.
For those seeking alternatives, don't miss our guide on the best Xbox controllers available on the market.
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 AmazonThe Carbon Black controller, released alongside the Xbox Series X in 2020, introduced a slightly revamped design featuring a new Share button, a hybrid D-pad, and enhanced textured grips and triggers.
Robot White Xbox Controller
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Released November 10, 2020### Xbox Wireless Controller (Robot White)
2See it at AmazonLaunched with the Xbox Series S in 2020, the Robot White controller mirrors its Series X counterpart in functionality but stands out with its sleek, all-white design.
Shock Blue Xbox Controller
Release Date: November 10, 2020
Released November 10, 2020### Xbox Wireless Controller (Shock Blue)
4See it at AmazonThe Shock Blue controller completed the initial color palette for the Xbox Series X|S, being 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)
8See it at AmazonJust before Valentine's Day 2021, the Pulse Red controller hit the market, offering a bold 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 AmazonThe Electric Volt controller, released in 2021, captured attention with its striking color reminiscent of a mix between Mountain Dew and a highlighter.
Deep Pink Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 17, 2022
Released May 17, 2022### Xbox Wireless Controller (Deep Pink)
1See it at AmazonIn 2022, the Deep Pink controller added a vibrant touch to the lineup, complete with matching buttons.
Velocity Green Xbox Controller
Release Date: March 7, 2023
Released March 7, 2023### Xbox Wireless Controller (Velocity Green)
4See it at AmazonThe Velocity Green controller, launched in 2023, marked the return of a solid green color to the Xbox lineup after nearly two decades.
Astral Purple Xbox Controller
Release Date: October 3, 2023
Released October 3, 2023### Xbox Wireless Controller (Astral Purple)
6See it at AmazonThe latest standard edition, released in 2023, the Astral Purple controller boasts a rich, deep purple hue reminiscent of the exclusive Fortnite Xbox One controller, albeit without the gradient effect.
Every Special Edition Color
---------------------------In addition to the standard colors, Xbox has offered a variety of "special edition" colors and patterns. While some can be recreated through Xbox Design Lab, retail versions may only be available through third-party resellers or refurbished units.
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, the Daystrike Camo, released in 2021, featured 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 WalmartThe Aqua Shift controller, part of the "Shift series," debuted in 2021 with a shimmering blue color and unique 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 WalmartThe Mineral Camo controller, the second camo-themed option during the Xbox Series X|S generation, released in 2022, showcased 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 VerizonIn 2022, the Lunar Shift controller was inspired by the moon's aura, transitioning between gold and silver hues.
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 "Shift series" controller, Stellar Shift, released in 2023, featured a captivating blue-purple color reminiscent of deep space, accompanied by a dynamic console background.
Arctic Camo Special Edition Xbox Controller
Release Date: May 2023
Released May 2023### Xbox Wireless Controller (Arctic Camo Special Edition)
3See it at WalmartThe Arctic Camo controller, a re-release from the Xbox One era updated for the Series X|S, quietly debuted in the US in 2023 and later expanded globally 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 in the "Vapor series," the Stormcloud Vapor controller released in 2023 with a blue-and-black swirled design and a matching dynamic background.
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 controller, released in 2023, introduced a new "Shadow series" entry with a gradient from gold to black and a 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," released in 2024, showcased a dreamy pink-and-purple swirl and included a dynamic background when paired with your Xbox.
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" controller, Nocturnal Vapor, released in 2024, featured earthy tones in its swirling design, though it did 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 AmazonThe Sky Cipher controller, released in late 2024, brought back the nostalgia of transparent controllers with its 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)
3See it at AmazonThe Ghost Cipher controller, the second in the "Cipher series," released in 2024, featured a clear design with a striking gold D-pad, and introduced transparent shells 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 Pulse Cipher controller, the latest in the "Cipher series," released in early 2025, boasts a deep red transparent design 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 AmazonThe Black Xbox Elite Controller Series 2, released in 2019, introduced several enhancements including better grips, more customization options, and a redesigned D-pad that influenced future Xbox Wireless Controller designs.
White Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: September 21, 2022
Released September 21, 2022### Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 - Core (White)
2See it at TargetThe White Xbox Elite Core Controller, released in 2022, offered a cost-effective alternative to the standard Elite Series 2, including only the thumbstick adjustment tool but with the option to purchase additional components.
Red Xbox Elite Core Controller
Release Date: March 28, 2023
Released March 28, 2023### Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 - Core (Red)
1See it at WalmartIn 2023, the Red Xbox Elite Core Controller debuted with 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)
2See it at WalmartAlongside the Red version, the Blue Xbox Elite Core Controller released in 2023, featuring a blue faceplate, matching buttons, and black grips.
Limited Edition Xbox Controllers
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Out April 30### Xbox Wireless Controller - Doom: The Dark Ages Limited Edition
5See it at AmazonFor gamers seeking something truly unique, Xbox offers limited edition controllers tied to popular games like Forza Horizon 5, Starfield, and Halo Infinite, with the latest being the Doom: The Dark Ages controller. Additionally, Xbox has ventured into more unconventional territory with themed controllers like the Sonic-themed controllers for Sonic 2, and playful designs featuring Deadpool & Wolverine.
Xbox has also introduced environmentally-friendly controllers made from recycled materials, a transparent black controller celebrating Xbox's 20th anniversary, and a "Vapor series" entry that sparked some controversy due to its timing.
A significant milestone during the Series X|S generation was the reintroduction of Xbox Design Lab in 2021, allowing gamers to craft their own personalized controllers and even incorporate designs from popular franchises like Fallout and Call of Duty.
