The new and improved version of the original Xbox Elite Wireless Controller has taken the gaming experience to a whole new level. With several improvements that make it the best Xbox controller on the market, the Xbox Elite Wireless Series 2 Controller is a pro-level gamepad that promises to elevate your gaming experience.
In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the Xbox Elite Wireless Series 2 and its features to help you decide if it’s worth investing in.
Xbox Elite Series 2 Price and Release Date
Let’s start by talking about the elephant in the room – the price. At £159.99 / $179.99 / AU$249.95, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 doesn’t come cheap. In fact, it costs nearly three times as much as the standard Xbox Wireless Controller. However, for pro-gamers or serious gaming enthusiasts, it’s worth every penny. It’s also being added to Xbox Design Lab in late 2022, so expect customisation options to bump up that price even higher.
Xbox Elite Series 2 Design
The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is a sleek and weighty gamepad that comes in a hefty carry case with a wireless charger pack (that can also be wired), a USB-C cable, and a variety of buttons. The controller itself is matte black, with rubberised grips covering both controller legs. On the front, there are the standard X, A, Y, and B buttons, alongside the standard Xbox, share, and menu buttons, and a profile button.
The best thing about the Series 2 is that there are also changeable analog sticks and D-pad buttons that you can simply pop off and replace magnetically with any of the buttons included with the controller. You get a set of six thumbsticks, including two standard, two classic, one tall, and one white dome. In addition, there’s a set of four paddles, including two medium and two mini, and a set of two D-pads: standard and faceted. The tension of the analog sticks can also be adjusted using a little screwdriver.
At the rear of the controller, there are four silver paddles – two on each side – and two switches that allow you to adjust the controller’s hair trigger locks. The trigger switches have three settings, with each further restricting the amount of give when pulling the trigger buttons. The trigger buttons are silver and on the top of the controller alongside the LB and RB buttons, a Bluetooth connection button, and a USB-C port. The Series 2 can connect to both an Xbox One and PC. Finally, the bottom of the controller has an audio jack and a port for the Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter.
Xbox Elite Series 2 Performance and Xbox Accessories App
The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 offers more customisation options than ever before, taking your gaming experience to the next level. You can customise the controller’s button mapping through the Xbox Accessories app (which is much more refined nowadays and you need to download it separately), allowing you to configure everything from stick sensitivity to vibration and brightness. You can even set a button to be your ‘shift’ key, so other buttons can have more than one use.
The most important aspect of the Series 2 is setting up uses for your new paddles. We found it useful to assign them to the X, A, Y, and B buttons to avoid having to move our hands from the standard controller position. If you can’t decide on just one set-up, don’t fret, you can save three custom profiles – and one default profile – on the controller and switch between them.
This makes it easy to switch between custom button mappings for different games or even different characters within a game.
But the customisation options don’t stop there. The Xbox Accessories app also lets you adjust the sensitivity of the triggers and the analog sticks, allowing you to fine-tune your controller for your personal preferences. You can also adjust the haptic feedback and the brightness of the Xbox button, so you can create a personalised experience that suits you best.
In terms of performance, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is a real powerhouse. The wireless connectivity is strong and reliable, with no noticeable lag or delay. The controller also feels incredibly responsive and precise, thanks to its adjustable sticks and hair trigger locks. The hair trigger locks make it easier to pull the trigger buttons quickly and with less force, which is particularly useful for games that require fast reflexes.
One of the standout features of the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is its compatibility with both Xbox One and PC. This means that you can use the same controller for both your console and your PC gaming, without having to switch between different controllers or set-ups.
XBOX ELITE SERIES 2 WIRELESS CONTROLLER: PROS AND CONS
So, is the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 worth the investment? Let’s break down the pros and cons.
Pros:
- Incredible customisation options, including interchangeable buttons and adjustable sticks and triggers
- Strong and reliable wireless connectivity
- Hair trigger locks for faster response times
- Built-in battery with up to 40 hours of playtime
- Compatible with both Xbox One and PC
- Sleek and comfortable design
Cons:
- Hefty price tag
- May be too bulky for some gamers
- Xbox Accessories app needs to be downloaded separately
Overall, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is an exceptional piece of hardware. It offers unparalleled customisation options, rock-solid performance, and a sleek and comfortable design. However, it does come with a high price tag and may not be suitable for gamers who prefer a lighter, more streamlined controller.
XBOX ELITE WIRELESS CONTROLLER SERIES 2: VERDICT
In conclusion, the Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controller is the best Xbox controller on the market right now. Its customisable design and high-performance features make it an essential piece of hardware for serious gamers who demand the best. While it may not be the most affordable option out there, it’s definitely worth the investment for those who want to take their gaming experience to the next level.