● Covered by 1 source · 1 reportLow impact1 neutral
Xbox Controllers Retain AA Battery Option Due to User Preference and Flexibility
Key points
- Xbox controllers use AA batteries since Xbox 360.
- Rivals (Sony, Nintendo) moved to internal rechargeable batteries.
- Microsoft cites customer preference for AA batteries.
- A rechargeable battery pack is sold separately for Xbox controllers.
Xbox Controller Battery Design
Microsoft's Xbox controllers, including the Xbox Series X controller released in 2019, continue to operate on AA batteries. This design choice contrasts with competitors like Sony and Nintendo, which have transitioned to internal rechargeable batteries for their controllers.
Historical Context of Battery Choices
The original Xbox had a wired controller. The Xbox 360 introduced a wireless controller powered by AA batteries. At that time, the Nintendo Wii also used AA batteries, while the PlayStation 3 featured a wireless controller with an internal rechargeable battery. Nintendo later adopted rechargeable batteries for the Wii U in 2012, but Microsoft has maintained the AA battery option for standard Xbox controllers.
Customer Preference and Flexibility
Jason Ronald, partner director of program management at Xbox, stated that customer feedback regarding battery types is split, with a significant portion of users preferring AA batteries. This preference for replaceable batteries is cited as the reason for continuing the design. Microsoft offers flexibility by selling a separate rechargeable battery pack for $24.99, allowing users to choose their preferred power source.
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Reporting from
Xbox controllers continue to use AA batteries, a design choice maintained since the Xbox 360, despite rivals adopting internal rechargeable batteries. Microsoft states this decision reflects a 50/50 split in customer preference, with many users favoring the flexibility of replaceable batteries. Xbox offers a separate rechargeable battery pack for users who prefer that option.