The Series X|S controller adds a Share button, hybrid D-pad, USB-C, and textured grips to the same layout, Xbox Wireless, and Bluetooth foundation the One controller already used.
A controller that feels identical can still be several revisions apart inside. That is the situation between the Xbox One controller and the Xbox Wireless Controller that shipped with the Series X|S — same shell, stick placement, and AA power, but different ports, buttons, and connection rules. The differences matter most when buying a replacement or pairing one pad across a console, PC, and phone.
Which Model Number Do You Actually Have?
Bluetooth support is the single feature that splits the Xbox One family, and the model number confirms it. Model 1697 shipped with the original Xbox One on November 22, 2013, and has no Bluetooth — wired Micro-USB or Xbox Wireless only.
Model 1708 arrived with the Xbox One S in August 2016 and added Bluetooth for Windows PCs and phones. Spot it without reading a label: on model 1708 the upper shell runs seamlessly around the Xbox button, while on model 1697 the plastic is split in two pieces around that button.
The Xbox Wireless Controller, model 1914, launched with the Series X|S on November 10, 2020. Microsoft lists a $64.99 estimated retail price for standard colors, with Xbox Design Lab custom builds starting at $79.99.
What Actually Changed Between The Two Generations?
The Series controller is an ergonomic and connectivity refresh, not a redesign — layout, stick feel, and battery setup carry over. Genuine upgrades: a dedicated Share button (the One pad requires Xbox-button shortcuts for screenshots and clips), a faceted hybrid D-pad for cleaner diagonal inputs, textured grips, triggers, and bumpers, and a USB-C port replacing Micro-USB.
Battery life is rated at up to 40 hours on the Series pad, depending on use and accessories, and both generations run on two AA batteries with rechargeable packs sold separately. The 3.5-mm headset jack is present on model 1708 and later, though the earliest One controllers may need an adapter.
- Share button: Series only
- Hybrid D-pad: Series only
- USB-C: Series; Micro-USB on model 1708
- Bluetooth: Series and model 1708; not on 1697
- Textured grips and triggers: Series, more extensive than One revisions
| Feature | Xbox One Controller | Xbox Series X|S Controller |
|---|---|---|
| D-pad | Standard cross-style on most models | Faceted hybrid D-pad |
| Share button | None; Xbox-button shortcuts | Dedicated Share button |
| Wired port | Micro-USB on model 1708 | USB-C |
| Bluetooth | Model 1708 only | Yes, plus Xbox Wireless |
| Power | Two AA batteries | Two AA batteries, up to 40 hours |
| Console support | Xbox One and Series X|S | Xbox One and Series X|S |
| PC and mobile | Windows via Bluetooth on 1708 | Windows 10/11, Android, iOS |
Will Either Controller Work On Your Console And PC?
Both generations work on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S consoles, so console compatibility is never the deciding factor. The split shows up on PC and mobile.
The Series controller connects wirelessly to Windows 10/11, Android, and iOS over Bluetooth, or by USB-C cable and Xbox Wireless Adapter on PC. Microsoft’s compatibility table notes that Android, iOS, and Bluetooth support depends on the device and OS version, and that some functions may not work. On Windows 7 or 8.1, the USB-C bundle page supports wired use with the included cable while noting limited functionality. If you want tested options for a newer console, this roundup of Xbox One controllers for Series X covers what holds up in practice.
Pairing is the same on both: hold the controller’s Pair button until the Xbox light flashes, press the console’s Pair button, and the light stays steady once connected. For Bluetooth, enable it on the device, hold Pair until the light flashes, then select the controller in the Bluetooth list.
Firmware matters. Update through the Xbox Accessories app on a Windows PC or console when prompted — Microsoft notes the Series controller may need the latest firmware before iOS use, and firmware can change switching and button behavior. The full OS matrix lives in Xbox Support’s controller compatibility table.
One cable caveat: a charge-only USB cable may not deliver a usable wired connection. Use a data-capable cable, and do not try to charge AA batteries through the controller — charging needs a compatible rechargeable pack.
Common Questions
Does the Series X controller work on an Xbox One?
Yes. Microsoft lists both the Xbox One and the Xbox Series X|S as supported consoles for the model 1914 controller. The reverse is also true — an Xbox One controller with Bluetooth pairs to a Series X|S like any other pad, minus the Share button and hybrid D-pad.
Is the Xbox One controller Bluetooth or wireless only?
It depends on the revision. Model 1697 from 2013 has no Bluetooth and connects through Xbox Wireless or a Micro-USB cable. Model 1708 from 2016 added Bluetooth for Windows PCs and mobile devices, confirmable by checking whether the upper shell is one continuous piece around the Xbox button.
Do I need a rechargeable battery pack for either one?
No. Both run on two AA batteries out of the box, and rechargeable packs are sold separately. A USB cable supplies wired power but will not charge standard AA batteries through the controller, so plan on swapping cells or buying a pack for long sessions on the Series pad’s rated 40 hours.
Sources
- Xbox Support. “Xbox controller functionality across operating systems.” Confirms OS and device compatibility for Xbox controllers.
- Microsoft Xbox. “Xbox Wireless Controller.” Source for current pricing, battery rating, and controller features.
- Xbox Design Lab. “Xbox Wireless Controller — Design Lab.” Lists the starting price for custom controller builds.