Best Xbox controller deals for October 2023
Get some new options and save some cash.
If you want a new controller, then you've come to the right place.
There are a truly impressive number of Xbox Series X|S controller options available, and acquiring some of them will do far less damage to your wallet than others. Controllers are a necessity, whether you simply need a basic extra for a family member or you want something more premium.
Even if you want something non-standard, there's no reason to spend a ton of money if you can find a controller on sale. I've rounded up the best handful of Xbox controller deals for the month, so you can make an informed decision about which one to buy.
Prices fall, and new controllers get more stock, so if you're not seeing what you're looking for right now, check back soon, and I'll have this updated to reflect the best options available right now.
Xbox Series X|S Core Wireless Controller | was $59.99 now $49 at Amazon
It's the basic Xbox Series X|S controller, but that standard is excellent. You're getting a controller design that's time-tested at the lowest price possible. This is what you should buy if you
Price check: $49.99 at Best Buy
Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller White | was $129.99 now $88.99 at Walmart
The Elite Series 2 Core controller is a great way to get a premium controller without spending as much as you would on the full-blown Elite Series 2. This model supports future expansion if you pick up different thumbsticks and D-pads, but doesn't include those extras out of the box.
Price check: $130 at Best Buy
In our review of the Elite Series 2 Core controller, managing editor Jez Corden wrote that "...if you wanted an Elite Controller with its absurd 40+ hour battery life with the option to pick up some cheap aftermarket paddles instead, this is an arguably great option and one of the best Xbox controllers on the market."
Microsoft Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller | was $139.99 now $85.17 at Walmart
An Elite controller with a less Elite price, the Series 2 Core has all the quality and high performance of a full Elite but without the paddles. 40 hours of battery life will keep you in the game. The Red edition only launched this year so to see it dropped to this price is a surprise, but one I welcome!
✅ Great for: Rechargeable battery and a premium feel
💰Price check: $139.99 at Best Buy
Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controller | was $179.99 now $139.99 at Verizon
If you want the absolute top-of-the-line option, the full Series 2 Elite controller is the way to go. This includes extra thumbsticks and D-pads, as well as back paddles. Customize it for your favorite game and program different profiles for an edge.
Price check: $179.99 at Best Buy
Will there be new Xbox controllers soon?
Yes, that is extremely likely. Xbox frequently releases new controller variants, colors, and throws in Limited Edition options for different games like Starfield. You can safely bet that there will be more controller options as time goes on. Keep in mind however that not all of these controllers will go on sale. In fact, with Limited Edition controllers, it's very possible that the controller will go out of stock if you don't act fast.
Do Xbox controllers work on PC?
Xbox Series X|S controllers can be used on PC with no issue. All you need to do is connect the controller with a USB-C cable and you'll be good to go! Xbox controllers are often treated as the standard for testing PC games, so you usually know you'll get a good experience with a Windows PC game being designed to use Xbox controllers as well as a keyboard and mouse.
Can I repair my Xbox controller?
Microsoft has taken great steps in improving consumer rights to repair, offering replacement parts that can be ordered so you can repair any part of your controller. Grab some extras so you're prepared, or buy things as you need them, and you can keep your controller going for a long time.
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Samuel Tolbert is a freelance writer covering gaming news, previews, reviews, interviews and different aspects of the gaming industry, specifically focusing on Xbox and PC gaming on Windows Central. You can find him on Twitter @SamuelTolbert.