The best controllers allow gamers to execute combos effortlessly and customize their gear. Despite more alternatives, Microsoft’s Xbox Elite Series 2 is the preferred option for many competitive gamers. As an official controller, the Elite Series 2 doesn’t need a wireless USB dongle on Xbox consoles. Usually, its simple connectivity and stellar build quality come at a high price. However, current discounts make the Elite Series 2 accessible to more casual players.
Gamers with small hands often find the Xbox One controller cumbersome to hold. The Elite Series 2 is also bulky and slightly larger than the standard Series X controller. Fortunately, the four back paddle buttons can reduce finger and wrist strain. Also, the Elite Series 2 has extended grips on the front and back of handles, preventing drops during intense action. At 345 grams, the controller takes effort to haul around, but Microsoft includes a carrying case.
Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Gaming Controller
$124 $179 Save $55
The Xbox Elite Series 2 is everything an avid Xbox fan would want in a wireless gaming controller, thanks to its limitless customizability features. It is versatile and works with Windows PC, Android, and iOS. Gamers can fine-tune the thumb stick’s tension for precise movements; its shorter hair trigger locks minimize travel distance for enhanced fast response times, while its rubberized grip ensures it won’t slip easily. Its battery life is also decent, with up to 40 hours of juice per charge!
- Wireless?
- Yes
- Compatible Systems
- Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, Android, and iOS
- Brand
- Microsoft
- Color Options
- 4
- Battery
- Rechargeable Battery
- Connectivity
- Wireless
- Programmable Buttons
- Yes
Why Pay More for a Modular Controller?
Customizable controllers like the Elite Series 2 morph to suit an individual’s play style. With the controller, buyers receive six analog stick covers of various sizes and a tool to adjust thumbstick tension. There are also standard and faceted D-pads, with the potential to install third-party options. On the back of the controller, gamers can swap between smaller and larger paddles. Whether a gamer prefers precise movements for racing titles or rapid inputs for shooters, the Elite Series 2 delivers.
Button remapping is also a huge advantage for the Elite Series 2. Using the Xbox Accessories app, gamers can save three profiles on the controller, with schemes that suit individual titles. Then, they can cycle between them with a dedicated button. This versatility is also available on PC with the same software. Trigger lock dead zone is also adjustable, so the controller can become as responsive as desired.
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Microsoft Xbox controllers excel on PCs and other devices, with multiple connectivity options. Desktop gamers must purchase a wireless USB dongle for the lowest latency performance. The Elite Series 2 also has Bluetooth, which facilitates pairing to Android tablets, media players, and smart TVs for cloud gaming. Its battery life stands at an impressive 40 hours, and this version of the controller ships with a wireless charging dock. If you wish to avoid constantly changing AA batteries, the Elite Series 2 may be worth upgrading for this reason alone.
Microsoft sells a Core version of the Elite Series 2 controller without as many parts and accessories. This configuration comes in Blue, Red, and White colorways, but otherwise is difficult to distinguish on product listings. The Elite Series 2, with all available components, is more often sold in black. While the Core is cheaper, the price difference doesn’t justify what perks it’s missing.
There is no shortage of wireless esports controllers when considering other controller brands. The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro has Hall Effect analog sticks that overcome stick drift issues. Its mechanical buttons also please professional gamers with satisfying clicking feedback. The Scuf Instinct Pro is another popular choice for tournament action. Most Scuf controllers are streamlined, and the performance-focused Instinct Pro is much lighter than the Elite Series 2.
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