Microsoft Xbox Series X controller uses AA batteries despite rivals switching to rechargeable
Microsoft announced at The Game Awards in December 2019 that the new Xbox Series X console would ship with a wireless controller requiring two AA batteries.
History of battery choices
The original Xbox shipped with a wired controller, while the Xbox 360 introduced a wireless unit running on replaceable cells. Sony moved to internal rechargeable batteries with the PlayStation 3, and Nintendo adopted them for the Wii U in 2012. Microsoft has continued using AA batteries for standard console editions through the current generation.
Industry comparison
By the time the Xbox Series X launched, both major rivals had already abandoned replaceable batteries in their controllers. The new Xbox controller design still requires customers to bring their own AA batteries for operation. This decision contrasts with the internal rechargeable battery systems found on competing hardware from other manufacturers.
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