Xbox Series X controllers with swapped backplates may be even better than the originals

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A subtle but welcome change

Reddit user rodor14's customized Xbox controllers
(Image credit: Reddit user rodor14)

While we're waiting for more Xbox Series X controller variants to arrive, players are discovering the joy of remixing their own to create unique color combinations.

Reddit user rodor14 shared some pictures of their work: a twin pair of controllers now forever bonded by swapped backplates (well, "forever" until rodor14 decides they want to try another color combo). The black controller is normally all black, and the neon green controller normally comes with a white backplate; with the two swapped, the neon green control gets an extra intense vibe that says "athletic wear", while the black controller with a white backplate instantly has strong tuxedo energy. 

One controller for working out, one controller for attending fancy parties, it's perfect.

The extra nice thing about this swap is you don't need to fully disassemble the controller to make it happen, since the individual plates can be removed. That said, modifying your own hardware will likely mean breaking the manufacturer warranty, and you should only ever work on a DIY project that you feel comfortable undertaking - and that you feel comfortable breaking, in case you mess something up.

Meanwhile, if you want to dream up your own color combinations but don't want to take a screwdriver and prying tool to your own controllers, Microsoft has confirmed that Xbox Design Lab will return with updates sometime this year.

If you're a little more worried about trying to get your hands on the system itself, make sure to stay tuned to our Xbox Series X price guide and get the best deals as soon as they're available.

Connor Sheridan
Connor Sheridan

I got a BA in journalism from Central Michigan University - though the best education I received there was from CM Life, its student-run newspaper. Long before that, I started pursuing my degree in video games by bugging my older brother to let me play Zelda on the Super Nintendo. I've previously been a news intern for GameSpot, a news writer for CVG, and was formerly a staff writer at GamesRadar.