Buying a birthday or Christmas gift for a gamer can sometimes feel expensive and overwhelming, especially if you are not a gamer yourself. Luckily, there are many accessories you can buy without breaking the bank. The right gaming accessory can upgrade comfort, performance, or immersion without forcing you to guess someone’s favorite game or platform. Here we go through some accessories that are genuinely useful, based on current trends and popular setups.
If you have the budget for it, a good headset is one of the safest and best gaming gifts – but only if you choose carefully. Look for headsets with clear microphone quality and support for multiple platforms. Comfort is just as important as sound quality, since many players game for hours at a time. Lightweight headsets with memory foam ear cushions and adjustable headbands tend to be better received than bulky “pro” models. Noise isolation is also useful, especially for late-night play sessions or shared living spaces.
Not everyone wants a full racing-style gaming chair, but posture-friendly seating accessories are becoming more popular. Lumbar support cushions, breathable seat pads, or compact ergonomic chairs are practical gifts that improve comfort without taking over a room. No matter if it’s a long shooter session or for online gambling, a proper setup with a comfortable seat is essential. Even the gamblers in your life who spend their time on platforms like Interac casinos where online slots and table games dominate, will appreciate the comfort upgrade, as a supportive chair setup can reduce fatigue and help maintain focus.
Keyboards and mice are personal, but they are also accessories that gamers upgrade often. Mechanical keyboards are especially popular because of their durability and typing feel. Hot-swappable keyboards, where switches can be changed without soldering, are a smart gift choice since they allow customization later. For mice, focus on ergonomics rather than extreme specs. A lightweight mouse with a good sensor and adjustable DPI works for almost any genre, from shooters to strategy games.
For console gaming, extra controllers are always useful – especially during the holidays when friends and family visit. Official controllers tend to be safer gifts, but third-party options with back paddles or remappable buttons can add extra value for competitive players. Charging docks are also a surprisingly appreciated gift as they keep controllers organized, charged, and off the floor. Custom skins or grips can also refresh older controllers, making them feel new again without replacing the hardware.
For a more budget-friendly option, LED light bars or bias lighting behind monitors can reduce eye strain and make setups look cleaner without being distracting. Cable management kits, such as clips, sleeves, and under-desk trays, can instantly improve a messy setup and are especially useful for shared or smaller spaces. These are small touches that gamers often want but don’t prioritize buying for themselves.
Finally, fast external SSDs are excellent gifts for console and PC gamers dealing with limited storage. Look for SSDs with USB-C support and good read speeds to reduce load times. Surge protectors designed for gaming setups, with spaced outlets and USB ports, are also practical and often overlooked.
Xbox Design Lab is a one-stop shop that allows you to create your very own controller. From the controller itself to every external component, Xbox Design Lab is a hugely customizable platform that lets you create controllers for yourself, or as a truly personal gift for the Xbox player in your life.
But before you get started, There are a lot of options to choose from – let us break down every single one, to help you create the perfect Xbox controller:
Choose Your Controller
The key question before you begin using Xbox Design Lab is: which Xbox controller do you want to design?
Xbox Wireless Controller – Starting at $79.99 USD, the Xbox Wireless Controller is our standard model, bringing you high performance at an affordable price. With textured triggers and grips, a hybrid D-Pad, and Bluetooth technology that allows you to connect it to multiple devices. Click here to start creating an Xbox Wireless Controller.
Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2– Starting at $169.99 USD, the Elite Series 2 makes our premium controller better than ever. With refined components, paddle slots offering extra options, adaptable elements like adjustable thumbsticks and hair trigger locks, and rubberized grips as standard, this controller delivers pro-level performance. Click here to start creating an Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2.
Customize Components
Once you’ve chosen your controller, Xbox Design Lab gives you 10 different customization options, allowing you to make a controller that’s uniquely yours. And if you can’t quite decide as you go, Xbox Design Lab allows you to preview your controller at any time, as well as save designs to your own personal gallery, allowing you to create multiple options to compare before you pick the final one.
Body
Applied to the entire front case, your choice of Body makes a statement. With the Xbox Wireless Controller, choose from a variety of matte finishes, or from a selection of gorgeous patterns, including the swirling Vapor designs, the multi-toned Shift patterns, bold Camo looks, our vibrant Pride design, or special, game-inspired designs like the Fallout top case. With the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, choose from matte finishes, our Cipher series – which adds a transparent case that allows you to see through the case to the components inside, or game-inspired designs.
Back
Your choice of Back encompasses everything behind the grips on your controller. With all the standard colors available in the Body category, you can choose to match the front of the controller, or create a two-tone pop of color.
Grips
For a small extra cost, you can add rubberized back and side grips to your Xbox Wireless Controller, offering an extra level of control in the hand. Rubberized grips come as standard on the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2.
Bumpers
Your choice of Bumper color encompasses the two buttons on the top of the controller, and the case in between them. On the Xbox Wireless Controller, choose from all the standard colors available for the Body and Back. For the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, choose from an array of metallic finishes.
Triggers
The Triggers are key to controlling many games, and come with multiple options. With the Xbox Wireless Controller, all the standard colors are available, but Xbox Design Lab also offers a variety of metallic options, allowing you to add a stately point of difference from the rest of the design. On the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, choose from a series of metallic designs that can blend in with your bumpers, or choose a different tone to create a standout design.
D-Pad
On the Xbox Wireless Controller, choose from all the standard colors available in other categories, or pick a metallic hue. On the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, pick from the classic four-direction D-Pad, or our unique Faceted design for extra control. Both D-Pad choices offer a variety of single-tone metallic finishes, or pick our multi-toned Chroma designs for a truly standout look.
Thumbsticks
On the Xbox Wireless Controller, thumbsticks can take on any of the standard colors available on the rest of the controller. Take more control with the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – pick the color of the metal base, as well as separate colors for both the thumbstick ring and topper.
ABXY Buttons
On the Xbox Wireless Controller, pick from seven different designs for the iconic Xbox buttons, from classic colored looks to different two-tone treatments. With the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, get even more choice with 20 different treatments, including colored variants that allow you to create even more specific looks.
View, Menu, Share Buttons
On the Xbox Wireless Controller, choose from 5 different designs for the central buttons on your controller. With the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, pick from 24 color options to help bring your design to life.
Engraving
For that final touch, both controller types allow you to add a 16-character engraving. Add a name, a Gamertag, or a personal message to make the controller truly theirs.
Pick a Pre-Made Design
If you’re looking to create a controller to celebrate a particular game, we may already have what you need. Check out the Xbox Design Lab Collection for customizable special edition controllers based on the likes of The Outer Worlds 2, Ninja Gaiden 4, and more.
Design Lab also offers ‘Inspired By’ designs that celebrate games on Xbox – pick a pre-configured design, make any changes you see fit, and show your fandom. From Hollow Knight: Silksong to Silent Hill F, Design Lab can help to create the perfect companion for your favorite titles.
Choose Some Elite Extras
If you’re opting for an Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, Xbox Design Lab offers a number of extra adjustable elements for the premium controller, all of which can be customized to fit your design. The Carrying Case and Charging Pack helps you take your controller anywhere in safety. The Paddle Pack adds a number of easily added extra paddles for the back of your controller, which can be used by adjusting options on your console. The Thumbsticks and D-pad Pack offers both D-Pad options and multiple interchangeable thumbsticks to let you swap how you want to play, game-by-game. And the Everything Pack includes all of the above in a single package. If you already own an Elite Series 2 controller, you can also opt to purchase the additional accessories packs by themselves.
Adaptive Thumbstick Toppers
We collaborated with community members, charity organizations, and a hospital involved in adaptive gaming and 3D printing to design complimentary 3D printable files for adaptive thumbstick toppers with Xbox Design Lab. Available to download, these designs can be 3D printed to create thumbsticks that meet multiple accessibility needs – and are available for both the Xbox Wireless Controller and Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. Xbox Design Lab also offers thumbstick topper designs for the Xbox Adaptive Joystick.
You now have everything you need to start creating a unique Xbox controller – head over to Xbox Design Lab to start experimenting!
This article was originally published in 2024, and has been updated for 2025.
Designed for Xbox: Your Gift Guide to Must-Have Xbox Accessories This Holiday
Scott WeberSenior Hardware PM Lead, Xbox
Searching for the perfect gaming gifts this holiday season? Our Designed for Xbox Holiday Gift Guide is packed with a variety of accessories to power up your play, whether you’re surprising a player in your life or upgrading your own setup.
Give the gift of storage with the 4TB storage expansion card from Seagate, explore new accessories for the ROG Xbox Ally handhelds, check out a variety of controllers including the Backbone Pro – Xbox Edition, and pick up audio gear to suit every style and budget. Whatever your gaming goals, you’ll find plenty of choices to take your experience to the next level.
The whole Designed for Xbox team wishes you a holiday season filled with great games, new gear, and plenty of fun.
Total Control
Gibson Les Paul Pro Edition Controller
Take center stage and rock the spotlight with the CRKD x Gibson Blueberry Burst Pro Edition Les Paul Guitar Controller, officially licensed by Xbox. From the team that developed the iconic hardware for Guitar Hero and DJ Hero, this new controller continues the revival of rhythm gaming like never before, bringing the band back together for a whole new era!
The Backbone Pro – Xbox Edition mobile controller lets you instantly play your favorite games across phone, tablet, PC, laptop, smart TV, and more – no pairing menus, just tap and play, with easy access to your gaming library and cloud services through the Backbone app. Built for precision and comfort, it features full-size ALPS thumbsticks, Hall Effect triggers, laser-etched grips, rear buttons, and industry-leading ergonomics, plus wireless Bluetooth or USB-C connectivity for up to 40 hours of battery life.
Available now for $179.99 USD ERP. Visit Backbone.com for more information.
Thrustmaster T598X Racing Wheel
The T598X simracing wheel features Thrustmaster’s new Direct Axial Drive with Axial Flux motor and Harmony technology, delivering ultra-precise, high-fidelity Force Feedback and super-boosted sensations for demanding gamers. With a detachable wheel rim, mag-shift paddle shifters, the Raceline Pedals LTE set, and plug-and-play compatibility with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC, it’s a high-performance package ready for any race.
Available now for $599.99 USD ERP. Visit Thrustmaster for more information.
Logitech RS System
The RS50 System includes the RS50 Base, RS Wheel Hub, and Round Wheel so you can hit the track quickly and easily. This gaming steering wheel system features Direct Drive with 8 Nm of torque, Trueforce support, integrated quick release, customization, and more to support an authentic racing experience on Xbox and PC.
Available now for $699.99 USD ERP. Visit Logitech for more information.
Scuf Valor Pro Controller
The Valor Pro Wireless controller features rear paddles for faster reactions and anti-drift TMR thumbsticks for durability and precision. Its low-latency wireless connection, including 1k Hz polling on PC, customizable settings via the Scuf app on Xbox & PC, and a built-in battery offering up to 17 hours of playtime make it a great choice for competitive wireless gaming.
Available now for $189.99 USD ERP. Visit Scuf for more information.
Hyperkin Competitor Controller
The Competitor is built for precision and reliability. Featuring drift-free Hall Effect sticks and triggers and programmable back buttons – thanks to anti-friction gates, metal glide rings, and some magic under the hood, players can enjoy some of the smoothest sticks available. With plug-and-play compatibility with Xbox and PC, a detachable USB-C cable, and an ergonomic grip, it’s ready for any gaming session.
Available in white and black this holiday season for $49.99 USD ERP. Visit the Hyperkin Store for more information.
Nacon Revolution X Unlimited Anniversary Edition Controller
The Revolution X Unlimited Anniversary Edition from Nacon features a design inspired by the Xbox 360 and is built for competitive play with drift-free Hall Effect joysticks, instant triggers, and a dedicated PC performance mode. With a command center screen for quick adjustments and multi-mode connectivity, this precision-engineered controller is made to outlast every opponent.
The Revolution X Unlimited Anniversary Edition is available for pre-order now for $199.99 USD ERP. Visit Nacon for more information.
Premium Sound
Logitech G Astro A20X Wireless Headset
Experience seamless gaming across all your favorite consoles with the Logitech G Astro A20 X headset – switch systems instantly and stay comfortable through every marathon session. With dazzling Lightsync RGB, immersive audio, and a 48kHz microphone, A20X lets you immerse yourself in your favorite games.
The Logitech G Astro A20 X Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Headset is available now for $179.99 USD ERP. Visit Logitech for more information.
SteelSeries Arctis Game Buds
Enjoy crystal-clear sound and ultra-low latency wireless gaming across multiple devices with SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds, featuring 2.4GHz wireless for low latency audio, Bluetooth 5.3 for mobile, and Active Noise Cancellation to keep you focused on your game. With customizable audio presets, up to 10 hours of playtime (plus 30 hours of charge in the case), and a comfortable fit for long sessions, these GameBuds are built for gamers who want premium performance and convenience.
The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds for Xbox are available now for $199.99 USD ERP. Visit SteelSeries for more information.
Razer Blackshark V3 Pro Headset
Give your Xbox setup a competitive edge with the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro for Xbox headset – ultra-low latency wireless (as low as 10ms) makes hearing footsteps instant, the detachable fullband mic makes callouts crystal-clear, and hybrid Active Noise Cancellation blocks distractions so you can lock in. With plush swiveling earcups, hybrid memoryfoam cushions, and adjustable noise canceling levels in Razer Synapse or the Razer Audio app, it’s the clutch headset to gift (or grab for yourself) this holiday.
The Razer Blackshark V3 Pro for Xbox is available for $249.99 USD ERP. Visit Razer for more information.
Expanded Storage
Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S – 4TB
Effortlessly expand your Xbox gaming library with the Seagate Storage Expansion Card, designed in partnership with Xbox for blazing fast, plug-and-play performance that matches your console’s internal SSD. With up to 4TB of sleek, dedicated storage, you can enjoy zero-lag gaming and keep all your favorite titles at your fingertips!
The Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox Series X|S is available for $429.99. Visit Seagate for more information.
ROG Xbox Ally Accessories
Discover a lineup of accessories for the new ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X. Explore accessories that help protect your Xbox Ally devices, expand your storage options, and include two versatile docks for enhanced connectivity and convenience.
ROG Xbox Ally (2-in-1) Premium Case
The ROG Xbox Ally (2-in-1) Premium Case is a hard-shell carrying case, featuring a water-repellent exterior, unique zipper design, and a soft fleece inner liner to keep your device safe from scratches and bumps. It also includes a detachable accessory pouch for the 65W charging adapter, so you can travel light or carry everything you need with confidence.
The ROG Xbox Ally (2-in-1) Premium Case is available for $69.99. Visit ASUS for more information.
Sandisk microSD Card for ROG Xbox Ally
Take your games anywhere with a high-performance microSD card engineered for Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, offering up to 2TB of storage for up to 50 games on the go. Built for speed and reliability, it delivers fast installs and quick load times, plus rugged protection and a lifetime limited warranty for peace of mind.
The Sandisk microSD cards are available starting at $69.99. Visit Sandisk for more information.
Seagate FireCuda 530R SSD
Designed for demanding gamers, creators, and professionals, the Seagate FireCuda 530R SSD leverages PCIe Gen4 NVMe technology to deliver blazing fast speeds up to 7,400MB/s for ultra-responsive performance across desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, and handheld gaming devices. Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities, its rugged M.2 2280 form factor and full compatibility with the Designed for Xbox program ensures seamless, reliable gaming and content creation on every platform.
The Seagate FireCuda 530R SSDs are available starting at $109.99. Visit Seagate for more information.
WD_Black SN7100X NVMe SSD for ROG Xbox Ally X & PC
Play your Xbox games anywhere with the officially licensed WD_Black SN7100X NVMe SSD for for ROG Xbox Ally and ROG Xbox Ally X and PC, delivering blazing fast speeds up to 7,250MB/s read and 6,900MB/s write for ultra-responsive gaming. With capacities up to 4TB, improved power efficiency, and a one-month Xbox Game Pass Ultimate trial included, you’ll be ready to conquer your biggest gaming sessions wherever you go.
The WD_Black SN7100X NVMe SSDs are available starting at $159.99. Visit Sandisk for more information.
ROG 100W Gaming Charger Dock
Power up your device, transfer data, and enjoy display output – all from a single, travel-friendly accessory that keeps your setup flexible wherever you go. The ROG 100W Gaming Charger Dock brings ultra-fast charging and seamless connectivity to your gaming experience, so you can plug in, play, and stay ready for anything.
The ROG 100W Gaming Charger Dock is available for $99.99. Visit Asus for more information.
ROG Bulwark Dock (2025) DG300
Upgrade your setup with a versatile 7-in-1 dock featuring HDMI 2.1, USB-C, three USB-A ports, Ethernet, and an audio jack – all supporting up to 4K at 144Hz or 8K at 30Hz. Enjoy 100W USB-C power delivery, ultra-fast data transfer, and Aura Sync RGB lighting for performance and style that keeps up with every player.
The ROG Bulwark Dock is available for $139.99. Visit Asus for more information.
Dbrand Killswitch
Engineered to survive everything from drops to marathon gaming sessions, the Dbrand Killswitch is a Designed for Xbox-certified case, built for the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X. It combines impact-resistant thermoplastics, a slim 2.5mm profile, integrated kickstand, and crush-proof Travel Cover to create the holy grail of handheld gaming cases.
The Dbrand Killswitch case for Xbox Ally & Ally X is available to pre-order for $59.95 USD ERP. Visit Dbrand for more information
Exciting new hardware and accessories are available now to help take your gaming to the next level – stay tuned for even more great releases ahead! From all of us at Designed for Xbox, have a wonderful holiday and a happy New Year.
Cyber Monday is giving you a final shot at getting your hands on a new gaming keyboard, with huge discounts to help you save leading into the holidays.
As the launch of Genshin Impact Version Luna III approaches on PlayStation 5, which features the new playable character Durin and fresh updates to the story in Nod-Krai, we’re excited to reveal the DualSense Wireless Controller – Genshin Impact Limited Edition. The new controller features an ethereal white, gold, and green palette adorned with arcane glyphs of a fantasy realm, including emblems of Traveler Twins Aether and Lumine and their trusted companion guide, Paimon.
To create this special design, inspired by the magical realm of adventure within Genshin Impact, our teams at Sony Interactive Entertainment collaborated closely with HoYoverse. Here’s Wenyi Jin, President of Global Publishing and Operation at HoYoverse, to share more about the controller:
“We’re thrilled to have the opportunity to present the DualSense Wireless Controller – Genshin Impact Limited Edition to our players and fans around the world. The controller features iconic design elements inspired by Genshin Impact’s beloved Traveler Twins and Paimon, celebrating years of adventure and companionship in Teyvat, alongside our cherished memories with the community. We hope that Travelers will enjoy the company of the controller and continue to expand their adventure in Genshin Impact!”
Begin an epic fantasy adventure, build your team, and master the seven elements with this new limited edition controller. Players can continue their saga on PS5 with innovative console and DualSense controller features that enhance the gameplay experience – explore Teyvat and uncover its secrets with features including immersive haptic feedback, support for breathtaking 4K visuals, and lightning-fast loading times.
The DualSense wireless controller – Genshin Impact Limited Edition will be available in limited quantities for a recommended retail price of $84.99 / €84.99 / £74.99 / ¥12,480. Pre-orders start on December 11, 2025 at direct.playstation.com as well as from select retailers.
Starting from January 21, 2026, the controller will launch in select markets across Asia, including Japan. Additionally, starting from February 25, 2026, the controller will launch in North America, Central and South America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. The exact launch date and availability for the controller may vary by country/region.
direct.playstation.com Purchase Information
Starting December 11, 2025 at 10am ET in the U.S., and 10am local time in the U.K., France, Germany, Austria, Spain, Portugal, Italy, Netherlands, Belgium, and Luxembourg, players will be able to pre-order the DualSense wireless controller – Genshin Impact Limited Edition through direct.playstation.com in limited quantities.
When ordering directly from PlayStation, enjoy free launch day delivery for eligible pre-orders. Visit direct.playstation.com for more details.
Level Up Your Look: Xbox and Crocs Launch Exclusive Gaming-Inspired Classic Clogs
Marcos WaltenbergGM, Xbox Global Partnerships
Game-mode: enabled. Xbox and Crocs have teamed up to release an exclusive collection.
Ready up with this controller-meets-clog design that reimagines the iconic Xbox controller with fixed buttons and joysticks into the perfect shoe for couch co-op and kicking back – complete with cushioned footbeds adorned with Player Left and Player Right, which give expert-level comfort to support your next session.
Available on the Crocs website starting tomorrow, the limited-edition Xbox collection includes a 5-pack of Xbox + Jibbitz charms featuring fan-favorite characters and icons from Halo, Fallout, DOOM, World of Warcraft, and Sea of Thieves.
No matter how you choose to play, or where your holiday plans take you – the iconic Xbox controller-inspired clog will be with you along every step of the fun.
NACON has unveiled a stunning special edition of their flagship controller and the Revolution X Unlimited Anniversary Edition is a love letter to the legendary Xbox 360.
Backbone Pro - Xbox Edition: Take Your Gaming Anywhere
Earlier this year, Designed for Xbox and our friends at Backbone launched the Backbone One – Xbox Edition. Now they are back with their next generation controller, redesigned from the ground up to let you access your favorite games on mobile, PC, smart TV, and beyond.
Meet the Backbone Pro – Xbox Edition, a great gaming experience, now designed for almost any screen you own, whether you’re on your phone, tablet, PC, TV, or streaming device. Every detail, from the precise placement of the full-size thumbsticks to the laser-etched grips and Hall Effect triggers, is the result of relentless optimization.
Backbone Pro offers two ways to play: Handheld Mode, where your phone is physically connected via USB-C for low latency and no charging required; and Wireless Mode, connecting via Bluetooth Low Energy for gaming from a distance.
Backbone Pro – Xbox Edition Features
Play Anywhere: Built-in battery, USB-C, and Bluetooth Low Energy unlock gaming across devices.
Pro-Grade Control: Full-size ALPS thumbsticks, laser-etched textured grips, Hall Effect triggers, and rear buttons for precision and comfort.
Jump Into Xbox Cloud Gaming and Remote Play: Includes one month of Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to explore a growing library of games.
Seamless Play with the Backbone App
Personalize your play with custom profiles, button remapping, and effortless device switching – all within the Backbone App. Switching between phone, PC, and TV is simple, with FlowState – just a tap moves your controller from screen to screen. The Backbone App also supports Apple Arcade, Steam Link, and other controller-friendly mobile titles, so you have gaming options in addition to Xbox.
Backbone Pro vs. Backbone One
Not sure which controller to snag? Here’s an overview of both controllers at a glance:
Backbone Pro – Xbox Edition: All-new ergonomic design for comfort and precision, Bluetooth and hardwired play, full-size ALPS sticks, Hall Effect triggers, two customizable back buttons, profiles and remapping, and built in battery.
Backbone One – Xbox Edition: Ultra-mobile, hardwired plug-in design optimized for portability, classic inputs, and quick jump into the Xbox app on your mobile device, to access features including Xbox Cloud Gaming and Remote Play with the Xbox button. Compatible with USB-C devices only.
Available Now
The Backbone Pro Xbox Edition launches today. It’s available for $179.99 USD ERP through Backbone.com, xbox.com, and Amazon, with Best Buy floor placement in the US beginning November 30. Worldwide shipping is supported.
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