The Xbox game pad has become the go-to gaming controller for almost everyone. In addition to the Xbox Series X and Series S (and last-gen Xboxes), it’s the default controller for PC gaming, and widely used in smartphone and tablet gaming, cloud gaming and even with set-top boxes like the Apple TV. Taking advantage of various Black Friday, Cyber Monday and holiday shopping Xbox controller deals is a good way to solve one of the gamepad’s big issues.
That issue is this: Having gone through literally dozens of these over the years I’ve discovered that Xbox controllers, including the official Microsoft ones, aren’t very sturdy, and you’ll probably have to replace one or more of them at some point. For example, I just started using a special Forza-design semitransparent controller with my Xbox Series X a few months ago, and one of the triggers is already catching.
The good news is that, with Black Friday and the holiday shopping season upon us, there are a lot of great deals and sales on Xbox controllers. Usually $60, or more for some designs and colors, many shops are offering them for under $40, although you might be limited in color choices.
I’m rounding up some of the best deals here, our you can see our roundup of the best Cyber Monday deals.
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Josh Goldman/CNET
The most basic official Xbox controller, slightly updated for the Xbox Series X and S with a new directional pad style. These are usually between $59 and $64 when not on sale.
Several stores have these for $40 right now, but only in black and white, and sometimes red. A few other colors, including blue, electric volt (sort of a neon green) and mineral camo, are currently $45.
Amazon, Target, Best Buy and the Microsoft Store all still have $40 controllers in stock. Target specifically says its sale ends Monday, November 28. The other sales are ongoing, for now. Walmart was late to this deal, but now has at least white controllers for $40.
You’re receiving price alerts for Xbox Core Wireless Controller, $40
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Microsoft
This upgraded controller offers a sturdier build, interchangeable thumbsticks, extra paddle controls, two different trigger depth settings and a wraparound rubber grip. It’s usually $180, and Microsoft had a decent sale on this last week, but that appears over. The best price I’ve seen on this right now is a refurbished model available from NewEgg, but through a third-party seller.
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Screenshot by Dan Ackerman/CNET
These one-of-a-kind custom designs aren’t on sale right now, but definitely worth taking a look at if you’re searching for a unique gift. You can customize the color and sometimes finish of almost every part of the controller, including both solid colors and a few patterns.
Some choices add extra cost, and if you want to go all-in, there’s also a customizable version of the Elite controller as well, which starts at $150.
