The Xbox Series S ships with the standard Xbox Wireless Controller, featuring a Share button, hybrid D-pad, textured grip, and USB-C port.
If you’re unpacking a new Xbox Series S or shopping for a spare gamepad, the controller in the box is Microsoft’s modernized Xbox Wireless Controller, not a separate Series S-exclusive model. It launched in Robot White alongside the console on September 9, 2020, and it carries the same feature set as the controller bundled with the Xbox Series X.
The design is a noticeable step up from the Xbox One-era gamepad. Sculpted surfaces and refined geometry make it comfortable for long sessions, and the textured grip on the triggers, bumpers, and back case keeps it secure in your hands. The dedicated Share button sits at the center of the controller, giving you one-tap access to capture screenshots and game clips.
What’s Included With The Xbox Series S Console
Microsoft’s official Series S bundle keeps things minimal. According to the Xbox Series S product page, the box contains exactly three items:
- One Xbox Series S controller (Robot White)
- A high-speed HDMI cable
- A power cord
That’s the full package. You’ll still need AA batteries for the controller, since Microsoft doesn’t include a rechargeable battery pack with the console.
Full Controller Specs And Connectivity
The Xbox Wireless Controller works across multiple platforms, letting you carry one gamepad between your console and other devices. Microsoft’s official controller page confirms compatibility with Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Windows 10/11 PCs, Android, and iOS.
Here’s the full breakdown of what the controller offers:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Wireless | Xbox Wireless for consoles; Bluetooth for PC, tablets, Android, and iOS |
| Battery | AA batteries; up to 40 hours of use |
| Wired port | USB-C for wired play or charging accessories |
| Audio | 3.5 mm stereo headset jack |
| Controls | Share button, hybrid D-pad, textured grip |
| Old PC support | Windows 7/8.1 with cable only; reduced functionality |
Pairing takes seconds. Microsoft says you can quickly pair, play on, and switch between Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, Android, and iOS using Xbox Wireless or Bluetooth. To move between devices, just re-pair on the new platform.
Is The Series S Controller Different From The Series X One?
No. Both consoles ship with the same Xbox Wireless Controller. The only difference is the color — the Series S bundle includes Robot White, while the Series X ships with Carbon Black. The internal hardware, buttons, and connectivity are identical.
If you buy a standalone controller for your Series S, any current Xbox Wireless Controller works, including Carbon Black and the various special edition colors Microsoft sells. The name matters for one reason: make sure you’re getting the 2020 redesign with the Share button, since older Xbox One controllers lack it.
A couple of caveats worth knowing. The controller needs AA batteries out of the box; a rechargeable pack is a separate accessory. And Windows 7 or 8.1 users get limited functionality over a wired cable only — full support requires Windows 10/11.
If you’re ready to buy a replacement or spare, our tested roundup of the best controller for Xbox Series S breaks down the top options and what makes each worth your money.
FAQs
Does the Xbox Series S controller require a rechargeable battery?
No. The controller runs on two AA batteries by default, which Microsoft rates for up to 40 hours of use. To go rechargeable, you’ll need to buy a separate battery pack, such as Microsoft’s official Play and Charge Kit, or use a third-party rechargeable option.
Can I use the same controller on my PC and phone?
Yes. Microsoft designed this controller to pair easily with Windows 10/11 PCs, Android, and iOS devices via Bluetooth, in addition to Xbox consoles over the Xbox Wireless protocol. Switching between devices requires re-pairing through the platform’s Bluetooth settings.
Why doesn’t my older Xbox One controller have a Share button?
The Share button is a newer feature introduced with the Series X|S generation in 2020. Older Xbox One controllers were built before that redesign and simply don’t include the button. You can still use those older gamepads on a Series S, but you lose the one-tap capture function.
References & Sources
- Xbox. “Xbox Series S Console.” Official product page detailing the console bundle, ports, and performance specs.
- Microsoft. “Xbox Series S.” Microsoft store listing confirming the included controller and system specifications.
- Xbox. “Xbox Wireless Controller.” Official controller page listing features, connectivity, battery life, and platform compatibility.