Wireless Controller (Glossy Black)

Description

The Wireless Controller for Xbox 360 features a familiar dual‑stick layout, a pressure‑sensitive D‑pad, four face buttons (A, B, X, Y), two triggers, two bumpers, and the central Guide button for accessing the Xbox dashboard. It runs on two AA batteries or an optional rechargeable battery pack, with the Play & Charge Kit allowing charging during play via USB. Wireless range is approximately 9 m, and up to four controllers can connect simultaneously to a single console.

Microsoft quietly had many variations of controllers, as meticulously documented here. The model 1403 is a 2009 revision of the initial 2007 launch design. In 2010 Microsoft phased out the original white controller as the default option, alongside the launch of the Xbox 360 S console. Although these are documented officially as ‘Glossy Black’ they are in fact a matte finish. These became the most common variant of the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller, although Microsoft would continue to release colour variants and special editions throughout the Xbox 360’s lifespan.

The controller was praised for its comfort, build quality, and wireless reliability, becoming one of the most recognisable and widely used gamepads of its generation. It also gained compatibility with Windows PCs through a separate wireless receiver, helping establish the Xbox 360 controller as a de facto standard for PC gaming input throughout the Windows 7–8 period.