Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller (white)
Manufacturer: Microsoft Corp. Part number: B4F-00001
- More product information:
- Editors' review
- User reviews
- Specifications
- Product series
- Manufacturer info
- Bottom Line:
- The Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless controller may be the most expensive first-party controller ever, but it's easily the best, too.
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CNET editors' review
Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller (white) price range: $42.79 - $51.95
- Reviewed by: David Rudden
- Edited by: David Carnoy
- Reviewed on: 06/02/2006
- Released on: 11/22/2005
The good: The Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless controller is comfortable and practical, with amazing wireless capability and solid battery life.
The bad: The Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless controller is quite pricey, even without the optional rechargeable battery accessories. Also, the controller lacks the motion-sensitive innovation of the Nintendo Wii and Sony PS3 controllers and may stunt creativity in games for the system.
The bottom line: The Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless controller may be the most expensive first-party controller ever, but it's easily the best, too.
The Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless controller retails for $50--that is, $10 more than the wired controller. It's currently available in only one color, and it accepts two AA batteries or a more environmentally friendly Xbox 360 Rechargeable Battery Pack. The controller should last from 15 to 20 hours between recharging or replacing the battery.
The Xbox 360 Wireless Controller borrows many design elements from the Controller S. The left and right analog sticks and triggers, the control pad, and the face buttons are all in the same spots, constructed rather similarly. The start and Back buttons have been moved to the center, flanking the new guide button, which can turn on the system remotely and allows access to your gamer card at any time. Removed from the older controller are the black and white buttons, which were awkwardly placed below the face buttons. Taking their place are the left and right bumpers, which make their home on the top of the controller in front of the triggers. Atop the controller is a small white sync button that, for the first time, allows your controller to communicate with a Xbox 360 console. The slight changes have resulted in a nearly perfect design; not only is the controller great for Xbox 360 games, but you may just prefer the new layout for the backward-compatible Xbox1 titles, as the bumpers are better located than the black and white buttons.
A variety of inputs are unobtrusively located on the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller. On the top is the input for the Xbox 360 Play and Charge Kit, which allows you to recharge the battery pack via a cabled USB connection to the console--though we found the Quick Charge Kit to be a far better solution. On the bottom is a headset input. You can plug in any headset with a 2.5mm minijack (standard for cell phone headsets), but the input is form-fitted to accept the Xbox 360 Headset, which has built-in volume and mute buttons. Compared to the wired controller, this model is slightly heavier and bulkier, due to the presence of the battery pack at the back of the controller.
As for performance, it's phenomenal, besting even Logitech and Nintendo's wireless wares. Response time is even with that of any wireless controller released before. The controller is as responsive as its wired counterpart, with the exception of the guide button, which takes a few seconds longer to sync wirelessly. The force feedback is strong but not quite as strong as the wired controller's. That said, where the 360 Wireless Controller separates itself from the rest of the pack is its ability to connect multiple controllers at once. While other controllers require multiple dongles and manually chosen frequencies, each of these wireless controllers will sync with the Xbox 360 console once the guide button is pressed. Once connected, the quadrant of the guide button corresponding to the player's number lights up.
In the final analysis, the Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller may be one of the best wireless controllers ever in terms of design and performance. If you're looking for faults, you might argue the controller lacks any startling new features--especially in comparison to the motion-based controllers for the upcoming Nintendo Wii and Sony PlayStation 3--which may hinder true game design innovations. And you might also be disappointed that it doesn't come with a rechargeable battery at this price point. But those quibbles aside, the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller is at the top of the pack.
User reviews
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P.O.S. 10 chars
by Ipaidforit on August 30, 2009
Pros: none. It's an inferior product.
Cons: The wireless antenna it comes with is crap, it died one minute out of the box.
Make sure you have POWERED USB or a hub, or it won't work.Summary: Don't even bother, 3 years released and no support for this. I have a powered usb hub, so not an issue there. The little wireless adapter died almost immediately, ...
Summary: Don't even bother, 3 years released and no support for this. I have a powered usb hub, so not an issue there. The little wireless adapter died almost immediately, when I checked this has been a problem since 2006? and they're still selling this crap? complete waste of money, I should've bought wired or bought Logitech. At least I'd have a controller, instead of a hunk of plastic. The plastic is sturdy and didn't fall apart so I gave it a half star. BUY SOMETHING ELSE!!!!!!!
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average gaming experience
by aznboy318 on June 2, 2008
Pros: it has rumble feature.
Cons: some of the buttons are hard to press and too heavy.
Summary: I compared this controller to the Dualshock 3, and didn't like this as much as the Dualshock 3. It is heavier, and less comfortable to use than the Dualshock.
Summary: I compared this controller to the Dualshock 3, and didn't like this as much as the Dualshock 3. It is heavier, and less comfortable to use than the Dualshock.
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Great Wireless PC Game Controller!..
by jayawhy on February 6, 2008
Pros: No Wires, Perfect for PC Gaming!
Cons: I should have purchased the Black one!.. (To match all my other electronics)
Summary: Perfect wireless pc game controller!.. I'm not much of a gamer, but when I do play Madden 08, NFL 08, & Need for Speed ProStreet this wireless game controller ...
Summary: Perfect wireless pc game controller!.. I'm not much of a gamer, but when I do play Madden 08, NFL 08, & Need for Speed ProStreet this wireless game controller works perfect.. I had to buy the XBOX 360 wireless USB controller for the PC in addition to the wireless controller to get it to work (Well worth it, I hate being tied down w/ wires).. I also purchased the charge & play adapter to eliminate having to buy new batteries every time.. (Too bad you can only use the charge & play adapter to charge it, & not utilize it as a wired game controller!, Oh Well!) Over all I love this wireless controller!..
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Sync problems, Abysmal Technical "support"
by sararainmaker on January 17, 2008
Pros: Nice looking Paperweight
Cons: Can't get it to work or get help to get it to work
Summary: I spent three hours trying to get the Xbox 360 wireless controller for PC to work. I installed, uninstalled, reinstalled and updated the software countless times. connected the usb cable ...
Summary: I spent three hours trying to get the Xbox 360 wireless controller for PC to work. I installed, uninstalled, reinstalled and updated the software countless times. connected the usb cable and checked every usb port. I even went so far as to unplug every wireless mouse/keyboard and turn off the Xbox in the other room before calling Microsoft Technical support.
I called the number on their website that it gave me for the specific controller. after a horrid wait the guy told me to call the Xbox tech support and gave me the number. luckily for me the wait was not as long, however the person I got to "help" me could do nothing of the fort. Granted... he really did TRY, but when you have no knowledge of the subject at hand reading off what the computer says for you to say only does so much. Eventually he told me to return it for another one because it must be faulty.
Sadly the next one I brought home had the same problem. I did a bit of research online and it seems Microsoft forgot to test their product before releasing it to the public because there are a lot of people with a lot of problems and not one trained tech support person at Microsoft to help them out with it.
I would suggest just buying a regular PC controller instead of wasting your money and time on this piece of junk! -
MS gets wireless integration right for this great 3D controller, but the 2d pad just doesn't hold up
by seishino on April 23, 2007
Pros: Good hand fitting form, good button action, nice triggers
Cons: Atrocious D-pad, additional play-n-charge kit basically required
Summary: I've traditionally avoided wireless controllers due to issues around laggy response times. Well, I have to say, the 360 wireless controller really made a convert out of me. The ...
Summary: I've traditionally avoided wireless controllers due to issues around laggy response times. Well, I have to say, the 360 wireless controller really made a convert out of me. The response time is crisp and fast, with no noticable lag at all. The "feel" is great, and if it weren't for the unusably bad d-pad (the same as the wired 360 controller's), it would be one of the best controllers out there.
The 360 wireless controller oozes quality. From the fit in your hand, to the rough weight, to the overall behavior, this thing is well-made. If you get the play-n-charge kit, you'll see that you can transition from wired (and charging) to wireless just by unplugging the controller... a great feature if you're in the middle of a session and running out of juice. Unusual for a wireless controller, you can still use it to shut down or turn on the system. Microsoft had planned the 360 around wireless controllers like this one, and the quality of integration really shows.
Just in terms of feel, this controller has a lot to love. The little nubs on the analog sticks give a good sense of direction. The analog shoulder buttons are responsive over a nice, wide sweep. Ditching the old white and black buttons, the buttons on the face of the 360 controller are consistently smooth jelly-bean style, with a responsive travel. The back and pause buttons are a little recessed for my taste, but they work.
Now, there are a few major drawbacks to the controller. One, you will need to get a play-n-charge kit for an additional 15 to 20 dollars. You do not want to be futzing with changing batteries every few days. The lifespan of a pair of AA's in the wireless controller, especially with rumble on, is about a weekend's worth of light gaming.
The other major drawback to this controller is the same as Microsoft's wired 360 controller: the D-pad is terrible for 2D gaming. The controller is nearly constantly pressing diagonals when you're attempting to press straight directions. As a lot of the Xbox Live Arcade games utilize the d-pad, this can be problematic. If you're excited about 2d fighters on the 360 you'll want to pick up a Mat Catz controller, as they have superior d-pad controls (though worse analog sticks).
Overall, if you can spare the 50 - 60 dollars for the wireless controller + charging cable, it comes strongly recommended. The feel is just great, with a suprising level of integration. Just be aware that you'll need to pick up another controller at some point for 2d and fighting games. -
Best Controller
by jagraj on January 29, 2007
Pros: Wireless, controls are easy to reach
Cons: nothing really
Summary: Great Controller, ppl are whining about how it doesn't have motion sensors in it like the PS3 and Wii but they don't realize that the PS3 and the ...
Summary: Great Controller, ppl are whining about how it doesn't have motion sensors in it like the PS3 and Wii but they don't realize that the PS3 and the Wii came out a year later.
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The best controller ever made!!!!!!!
by the 4077th on December 21, 2006
Pros: Fits with your hand like a glove, Long range, Long battery life, Great features, Headset port on it, I could go on forever.
Cons: None that I can think of.
Summary: I suggest getting this controller over a wired controller because your can be far away and still play.
Summary: I suggest getting this controller over a wired controller because your can be far away and still play.
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Great feeling
by LePope on November 6, 2006
Pros: Wireless, sleek design, good feeling
Cons: price is a little high; white surface easily attracts dirt
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Best controller ever
by HotShot424 on August 13, 2006
Pros: This controller is just so comfortable to hold and i love the new bumpers
Cons: Nothing Nothing Nothing
Summary: This is the best controller ever!!!
Summary: This is the best controller ever!!!
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I love the feel and handleing
by tobymac on June 19, 2006
Pros: It has no start up lag.
Cons: Noe that I'm experiancing
Summary: I've always been a wireless controller guy and this is the most simple I've ever owned.
Summary: I've always been a wireless controller guy and this is the most simple I've ever owned.
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Microsoft Corp.
- Part number: B4F-00001
- Description: High-performance wireless gaming is here! Using optimized technology, the Xbox 360 Wireless Controller lets you enjoy a 30-foot range and up to 40 hours of life on the two included AA batteries - and when they run low, you're given ample warning so you can connect a Play & Charge Kit for uninterrupted play. Plug the Xbox 360 Headset into the controller for full two-way voice communication: a wireless first.
General
- Device Type Game pad
Input Device
- Compatible Game Consoles Microsoft Xbox 360
- Connectivity Technology Wireless
- Max Operating Distance 30 ft
- Features Vibration
Battery
- Type AA type
- Installed Qty 2
Product series
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Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller (white)
Manufacturer: Microsoft Corp.
Specs: External, Game console, AA type, Game pad, Wireless
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Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Controller (black)
Manufacturer: Microsoft Corp.
Specs: External, Game console, AA type, Game pad, Wireless, Black
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Microsoft Xbox 360 Limited Edition Halo 3 Controller (Spartan)
Manufacturer: Microsoft Corp.
Specs: External, Game console, AA type, Game pad, Wireless, Triggers
Manufacturer info
- Microsoft Corp.
- Manufacturer profile
- Browse Microsoft Corp. products on Shopper.com
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- Website: http://www.microsoft.com/
- Address:
One Microsoft Way
Redmond, WA 98052 - Phone: 425/882-8080
- Fax: (425) 706-7329
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