3D Print Xbox Controller Accessories | DIY Gamer Gear

If you own a 3D printer, then you have a pretty effective troubleshooter. Whether you’re trying to expand your storage, fix a broken item, or just do something fun and quirky, 3D printers offer a lot of versatility for users of all skill levels. One place where you might be surprised to find many 3D printable options is your game controller, specifically the iconic Xbox Wireless Controller.

The Xbox Wireless Controller has been the standard Xbox design since the Xbox One era, with only a few minor design and hardware changes implemented over the years. For many, it is the standard for a gamepad, but it is far from perfect. There are many official accessories to improve or add new features to your Xbox controller, but why do it when you can make them yourself? Whether you’re looking to add some style or improve the usability of your controller, these 3D printable accessories will improve its use for gaming.

In recent years, Xbox has made great strides in accessibility, thanks to devices like the Xbox Adaptive Controller and a host of accessibility options. But what if you just need something simple that lets you manipulate the analog sticks a little easier? If you just need something that allows you to make a small additional purchase on your controller, Xbox has you covered with a free 3D printing option.

Available from Xbox’s Design Lab service, these adaptable thumbsticks let you expand your controller’s analog sticks in any way that suits you best. These official free download files consist of six different styles of joystick, available in various sizes, so you can find the type of joystick that is most comfortable for you. Simply download the file to your 3D printer and print as many adapters as you need in the style you want. Then, it’s just a matter of plugging them into your controller and jumping into the game you want to play.

It’s hard to be a fan of racing games. If you want a 100% accurate setup, whether you’re looking for arcade perfection or a perfect simulation, you’ll spend a fortune on bulky gear, from pedals to USB-connected steering wheel controllers and more. If you don’t, you’ll have to play with a controller, which is far from ideal.

But what if you could 3D print your own middle ground? There are several impressions for an Xbox controller mini-wheel adapter, a rack-and-pinion-based system that allows you to adapt your controller for racing games. Basically, the system connects the joystick to a printed mini-wheel steering component. You can then control the steering wheel with your thumbs using movements similar to driving a real car. It’s not as good as a fancy and incredibly expensive racing steering wheel controller, but it might be the best option and it only costs you a couple of dollars in filament. Pair them with some 3D printed Xbox controller paddles for a full racing experience on Xbox.

You may have more than a few controllers, whether for your console or for any of the countless uses of an Xbox controller. From different colors to limited edition releases designed after your favorite games, or even something stylish you created using the Xbox Design Lab, controllers have a lot of personality these days. If you have a controller that you’re particularly proud of, you probably don’t want to just throw it in the trash under your TV.

You could show it and your 3D printer can help you. There are a large number of 3D printed Xbox controller stands available and they vary greatly in style and design. You could opt for something simple: a nondescript, plain-colored stand that lets your Xbox controller take center stage. Or go all out with something complex, like a Kraken tentacle, a cozy pillow, or even your favorite character holding it. Whatever you choose, these are a fun and easy way to show off your controller between gaming sessions.

Xbox Play Anywhere is easily one of the most underrated features the company offers, allowing you to buy a game and play anywhere, whether it’s your console, your PC, or the Rog Ally X. It’s also included on your phone, but playing on it can be a real chore. Even if you have one of the biggest new phones on the market, your phone’s screen is still positively tiny. Plus, you have to balance that with holding a controller!

So why not print a solution yourself? You can find many phone holders for your Xbox controller. These sit on top of the controller and hold the phone in place, so you can play with the controller without having to find the perfect place to rest the phone. They’re great if you’re looking to stream something on your couch but don’t want to use the TV, or if you’re on the go and don’t want to carry your entire console with you.

Historically, Xbox has always tried to have some personality with its console, whether it was limited edition Xbox consoles or Xbox 360 faceplates that added a touch of personality to the console. Unfortunately, newer consoles have lost many of these features and fans have had to resort to modifications to consoles and controllers to give their machines some flair.

If you’re looking to upgrade your Xbox controller, you can use your 3D printer to create new faceplates. Fans have created many interesting and unique designs, like an engraved “Fortnite” controller faceplate or this particularly interesting rock texture design. Or, if you’re like many SlashGear readers and love Milwaukee tools, you can customize your controller with this Milwaukee faceplate. Whatever you choose, 3D printers and fan-designed templates give you the opportunity to customize your experience in a way Microsoft won’t let you, assuming you’re comfortable with a little disassembly of your controller.