Xbox One Wireless Controller Review: A Refined Classic
8/10 — Xbox One Wireless Controller
Works with: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Pros
- Comfortable, refined design
- Impulse triggers add rumble where you need it
- Later models add Bluetooth and a headphone jack
- Cheap second-hand
Cons
- Runs on AA batteries
- Original models lack Bluetooth and a 3.5mm jack
- D-pad is merely okay
The Xbox One Wireless Controller had a tough act to follow in the much-loved Xbox 360 pad. Microsoft took a cautious approach, refining rather than reinventing, and ended up with one of the best controllers of its era.
Design
It keeps the 360 pad’s offset stick layout but slims down the shape, moves the battery compartment flush with the back, and improves the D-pad. Impulse triggers add their own rumble motors, so you can feel a gun’s recoil or a car’s brakes under your fingers.
There are three main versions. The 2013 original lacks a headphone jack. A 2015 revision adds a 3.5mm jack, and the 2016 model, launched with the Xbox One S, adds Bluetooth and a textured grip. That last version is the one to look for, because it also works wirelessly with PCs and phones.
Today
It still runs on AA batteries, which feels dated, but it’s cheap second-hand and works with Xbox Series X|S consoles too.
Verdict
The Xbox One Wireless Controller is a comfortable, well-made pad that still holds up. If you’re buying one now, get the later Bluetooth model, or consider the newer Xbox Wireless Controller with its improved D-pad.
