Microsoft has finally brought back the Xbox Design Lab once again for the first time since December 2024, allowing players to create and purchase custom controllers for their consoles. Using this feature, Xbox fans can design their very own controllers and accessories based on their personal preferences or favorite video games, including Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Fallout.

The Xbox Design Lab is a controller customization service that was originally announced during E3 back in 2016. The program was temporarily halted in October 2020 so that Microsoft could focus on the Xbox Series X|S, and though it later returned, it was shut down again in December 2024 to account for changes in payment platforms.

Xbox Design Lab Custom Controllers Now Available

It took nearly a year, but Microsoft has finally made good on its promise. The Xbox Design Lab has finally reopened its doors, offering the ability to create and order customized controllers and accessories. Fans can design and preview their personalized peripherals in an intuitive 3D model that updates in real-time based on the dozens of options for color, patterns, textures, button styles, and even engravings so that players know exactly what they are getting before they order.

These Xbox controllers currently come in two different styles: the $80 default Xbox Wireless Controller and the $170 Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. While many of the customizations, such as color and button style, have no additional costs, some upgrades, including translucent or themed patterns, rubberized grips, or a personalized engraving, have an extra cost associated with them. For fans who prefer to have a more concrete starting point, Microsoft has over a dozen preset controllers to choose from that can be further customized, including some with special decals for Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Fallout.

There are more than just controllers in the Xbox Design Lab. Gamers who want to get some accessories for their Xbox controllers can also purchase customizable carrying cases, charging packs, paddles, D-pads, thumbsticks, and even thumbstick toppers to further personalize their creations.

With nearly five years since the release of the Xbox Series X|S, speculation already abounds about the next generation of consoles. Some credible rumors for the tenth-generation Xbox console say it will be stronger than its PlayStation counterpart, though it is still too early to say for certain. Considering the Xbox Design Lab controllers can be used for both the Xbox One and the Xbox Series X|S, there’s a good chance players will be able to carry their custom creations forward into the next generation as well.