Microsoft is now extending their repairability to Xbox controllers as the tech giant launches Xbox controller parts on their website.
This news came from Game Pass Tracker on Twitter who tweeted out that Xbox has launched this ability to get controller parts for various controllers. This means that owners of current Xbox Wireless controllers and the Xbox Elite Series 2 can now purchase replacement parts directly from Microsoft. These parts include the PCBA boards with Rumble assemblies, Input boards, buttons, and case moldings. This would give consumers more options than outright replacing a controller due to stick drift or a faulty component. HUZZAH! no more stick drift… well I wish it was that simple.
Unfortunately, this only applies to current controllers, like the Elite Series 2 (model 1797) and the Regular Wireless controller (model 1914), so owners of the original Elite Series will have to stick with third-party sites. Along with this, the color options for both case moldings are limited to black and white. The pricing for both controllers varies, with parts for the Elite Series 2 being more expensive, with buttons starting at $24 and the PCBE boards at $60. The standard wireless controller parts are less expensive with the controller molding starting at $20 (compared to 25$ for its counterpart) and the PCBEs at $35.
iFixIt also sells replacement parts for both Xbox Series and Xbox One controllers, and yes this includes the original Elite Series controller. They sell more specific and individual parts, with a “lifetime warranty” compared to Microsoft’s 1 year offer.
With the ability to buy replacement parts, this is on par with Sony’s $200 DualSense Edge controller, with its ability to have swappable joystick modules. However, Sony does not offer other controller parts for the Edge, only the joystick module. This move by Microsoft directly follows an agreement made with shareholder group, that advocates for consumers to have the right to repair their stuff. Valve also does this with the Steam Deck, who partnered with iFixIt as a direct OEM supplier for consumers to purchase parts for the Deck.