Xbox Design Lab is a fantastic portal that enables you to craft your very own controller from scratch. Whether you’re tailoring one for yourself or designing a special gift for the Xbox enthusiast in your life, the Lab offers a wealth of customization options from the controller itself down to each individual external part.
Before diving in, it’s crucial to pinpoint exactly which Xbox controller you want to customize. There are numerous choices available, and we’re here to guide you through each of them to help you design the perfect Xbox controller:
Pick Your Controller
The first step in using Xbox Design Lab is choosing the controller model you want to personalize.
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Xbox Wireless Controller: Starting at $69.99, this standard model delivers high performance at a reasonable price point. It includes textured triggers and grips, a hybrid D-Pad, and Bluetooth technology for multi-device connectivity. Start designing your Xbox Wireless Controller here.
- Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2: Priced from $149.99, this premium model enhances our elite controller with refined parts, adaptable thumbsticks, paddle slots, adjustable triggers, and standard rubberized grips, offering a professional-level gaming experience. Begin crafting your Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 here.
Customize Components
After selecting your controller, Xbox Design Lab provides 10 different customization features to truly make it yours. If you find yourself stumped, you can preview your controller anytime and save designs to your personal gallery. This way, you can create, compare, and commit to the perfect choice.
Body
The Body design sets the tone for your entire controller. With the Xbox Wireless Controller, you can opt from an array of matte finishes or choose from a range of striking patterns, like the swirling Vapor designs or the bold Camo looks. For the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, matte finishes, the Cipher series — featuring a transparent case — or themed designs from games are available.
Back
Your choice of Back design covers everything behind your controller’s grips. Select from the same color options as the Body category, whether you want the front and back to match or want to create a pop of contrasting colors.
Grips
For a small additional fee, rubberized back and side grips can be added for enhanced control, a feature standard on the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2.
Bumpers
With Bumpers, you can choose colors for the two buttons at the controller’s top and the connecting case. On the Xbox Wireless Controller, selections come from the standard color palette. For the Elite Series 2, metallic finishes expand your styling options.
Triggers
Triggers are crucial in gameplay, and Xbox Design Lab offers options to make them stand out. Opt for the standard colors or metallic hues to truly differentiate your design, or create a harmony or contrast with your bumpers for the Elite Series 2.
D-Pad
Whether picking a metallic tone or the standard palette, the Xbox Wireless Controller offers ample choice. For the Elite Series 2, switch between the traditional four-direction D-Pad or the unique Faceted design, both available in metallic or the vivid Chroma designs.
Thumbsticks
On the Xbox Wireless Controller, synchronize thumbstick color with the rest of your design. With the Elite Series 2, select the metal base and distinct colors for the thumbstick ring and topper for enhanced control.
ABXY Buttons
Explore seven design options for the iconic Xbox buttons on the Wireless Controller, from classic to two-tone variants. The Elite Series 2 expands the choices with 20 different treatments, allowing for more precise customizations.
View, Menu, Share Buttons
Choose from five designs on the Xbox Wireless Controller’s central buttons. Meanwhile, the Elite Series 2 lets you select from 24 color options, bringing your controller design to life.
Engraving
Add a personal touch with a 16-character engraving available for both controller types. Whether it’s a name or a motto, this feature makes the controller truly unique.
Select a Pre-Made Design
Celebrate your favorite game with a pre-made ‘Inspired By’ design from Xbox Design Lab, offering a quick start to your customization journey. Want more inspiration? Choose from the Xbox Design Lab Game Collection featuring special designs like those from Fallout and Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, all customizable to your liking.
Consider Elite Extras
For the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, several customizable elements are available to enhance your gaming experience. The Carrying Case and Charging Pack provide easy transport, while the Paddle and Thumbsticks and D-pad Packs allow for more play style adaptations. The Everything Pack bundles all of these, and those with existing controllers can buy these accessories separately.
Adaptive Thumbstick Toppers
In collaboration with charitable organizations and hospitals, Xbox Design Lab offers complimentary 3D printable files for adaptive thumbstick toppers. These designs cater to various accessibility needs and are compatible with both Xbox controller models. Look forward to Xbox Adaptive Joystick toppers, arriving early 2025.
Armed with this guide, you’re ready to begin crafting a unique Xbox controller. Visit Xbox Design Lab and start experimenting with your design today!
