The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is one of the top gamepads for PCs and the Xbox One/Xbox Series consoles. It provides a great feel and customization options for hardware and software that the regular Xbox Wireless Controller lacks. It’s also rather costly. Microsoft now provides the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core (referred to as the Elite Core from here on out).
The Elite’s carrying case, cradle, rear paddles, additional analogue sticks, and direction pads were all removed by Microsoft, which resulted in cost savings. Since the connectors are still on the gamepad’s back and the controller looks somewhat bare without them, removing the paddle feels strange.
The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 has a slick, cosy, and substantial design. When the Series 2’s package is opened, a large travel case, a wireless charger pack (that can also be wired), a USB-C cable, and a number of buttons are all visible.
Unlike its counterpart, which only had rubberized grips on the backs of the legs, this controller is matte black and has grips on both of its legs. The normal Xbox, share, menu, and X, A, Y, and B buttons are present on the front, along with a profile button that we’ll discuss later. However, the brilliance of the Series 2 is that it also features interchangeable analogue sticks and D-pad buttons that you can easily pop off and magnetically swap out for any of the controller’s other buttons.
Six thumbsticks are included in the set: two are regular, two are classic, one is tall, and one is white dome. A set of four paddles, comprising two medium and two small paddles, and a set of two D-pads, standard and faceted, are also included. Using a small screwdriver, the analogue sticks’ tension can easily be changed. There are three settings, and each one tightens the sticks a little more.
These buttons and sticks are virtually interchangeable, allowing you to choose the most comfortable gaming environment for yourself. Four silver paddles, two on each side of the controller’s back, and two switches that let you change the hair trigger locks are located there. Each of the three settings for the trigger switches further limits how much give there is when the trigger buttons are pulled.
The trigger buttons, which are silver, are located on the top of the controller along with the LB and RB buttons, a Bluetooth connection button, and a USB-C port (as is to be expected). Both an Xbox One and a PC can be connected to the Series 2. The Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter port and an audio jack are located on the controller’s bottom.
The built-in battery of the Series 2 is the most appreciable design improvement over its predecessor. The controller’s battery may be recharged for up to 40 hours either utilising the wireless charging dock or by plugging in the USB-C to a power source.
