Xbox 360 Wireless Controller – Glossy Black

I bought this black wireless controller so I could have another wireless controller. Be advised when reading reviews on this product that it appears some people are reviewing the Xbox 360 Silver Controller and Play & Charge Kit, which is a special controller that is different (and more expensive as of this writing) than the black controller I am reviewing. This controller does NOT have any chrome items on it (other than the usual Xbox Guide button), nor does it have any upgrades to the D-pad.

As far as the controller itself, I didn’t notice any structural difference between this controller and my old white controller that came with my Pro 20GB Xbox 360 several years ago. I did notice, however, that this controller properly charges my Play & Charge Kit where my old one did not. Prior to buying this controller, my Play & Charge kit would always show the red light while recharging. Since the recharging appeared to work anyway, I didn’t think much of it (especially after calling Microsoft and being informed that the warranty on accessories is only 90 days, though that was in 2008). Since I assumed that the battery was at fault the whole time, I was surprised to find out that this controller charged the battery and (correctly) showed a green light when charging was complete.

Though it did not appear to be a structural change to the controller, I had somewhat forgotten (or not realized?) how much wear my controller has taken over the four years (give or take) since I got my console. The new controller gives me a bit more precision in games, especially with the right stick and the pushing of the sticks (for activities like sprinting). The tactility of the sticks (with little raised lines for grip) were a nice reminder of what my controller seemed to have at one time.

This was a satisfying purchase for functionality and the nice sleek look of black. I should also note that while the description of the item is “Glossy Black,” this controller isn’t really what I would call glossy like you would call the bezel of an LCD monitor or clear coat on a car. It gives off very little gloss in my opinion, which is fine by me.

Despite other opinions – this controller is only different in color scheme from the older controllers.
In fact – my left trigger annoyingly squeaks – ironically all my older controllers (5 in total – including the red and blue ones – which I use as spares and for friends)never squeaked. Basically the color scheme is all black – no gray. And a shiny garish chrome power button. It has the exact same feel the older controllers have. I think some of the reviews claiming it has a different feel or has different performance has to be imaginative wishful thinking.
I noticed no change in performance (and due to the squeaking trigger actually worse quality than my older ones!)
I also noticed no different power consumption as compared to the earlier controllers. I use rechargeable batteries so can’t comment on AA battery drain – but again – I’d be wary of opinions that somehow this controller had been redesigned to reduce power consumption when everything else is identical to the older versions. Unless you actually see controlled tests regarding power consumption I’d take these sort of opinions as opinions – not fact.
If you like the new color scheme then buy it but do not expect it to be any different from any earlier controller.

Xbox controller is excellent, shipped as described and very fast. Would recommend this item to anyone who plays xbox 360.

No more cords to trip over ! And the fact that you can sit further away from the TV than the corded versions allow, make this a great product. I’ll always seek out cordless products from now on ! I would recommend this product.

This controller is very cool. A definite upgrade from the older black generation. The middle button to access everything is chrome which is cool, basically just your regular xbox controller, but more stylish, hey if you had a choice.. why not choose the one that looks better for the same price.

This controller is a must have for anyone with a Xbox 360. It’s wireless, which is very convenient. It’s easy to hold the controller, you can move it around your house, and not having wires means that you will have more space. You can also plug in a headset into the controller, and talk with your friends, which is amazing. The controller has a range of 30 feet, which is more than enough. It’s powered by two AA batteries which last 40 hours, but having vibration on can reduce battery life to ten hours. However, this shouldn’t be a problem if you have a play and charge kit or extra batteries. The controller comes in a glossy black finish which looks great.

This controller’s structure is very similar to previous xbox controllers. The buttons and triggers are about the same size and in the same location as before, but there are some minor improvements. This controller is definitely the best Xbox controller that exists, but if you have older controllers that work good, you don’t need to upgrade. However, if you need to buy an extra controller, you should definitely buy this one.

We bought an Xbox 360 Kinect bundle for Christmas and needed another controller to play 2 player standard games. I almost shelled out $50 plus tax at a bricks and mortar retailer for this controller, but decided to check Amazon. So glad I did – if you can wait for shipping, you’ll probably save some bucks. The OEM wireless controller is well built and comfortable in the hands.The light indicator system that shows which controller is which is easy to understand and the system assigns whichever controller you turn on first to the #1 spot, so you don’t have to mark them or buy different colors. We are considering buying one or two more of these, and would definitely buy from Amazon again. It even arrived a couple days earlier than the first estimated delivery date, and notifications and shipment tracking were both the best of any online retailer in my experience.

Like i said, It was a good price and i like the color. everything felt good but when i plugged it in and started playing the left analog stick would squeak when i moved it to the right. For the most part it has stopped doing it but sometimes i hear it.
Other than that, which could just be the luck of the draw for me.. It’s a solid, good feeling controller and i intend on buying another one soon.