Microsoft has released the Elite Xbox Wireless Controller Series 2. This advanced controller is now available at the usual gaming hardware retailers in the high street and online at around £160 in the UK (including a direct from Microsoft choice, via the link above). For the price you get over 30 advancements delivered by this pro-gaming PC-friendly hardware sequel.
Highlights of the new design are that it features the following:
- adjustable-tension thumbsticks
- shorter hair trigger locks
- wrap around rubber textured grips
- new re-engineered interchangeable components
- up to 40 hours of rechargeable battery life via internal battery
- case/dock has built-in charger
- 3x custom profiles and 1x default profile on the controller
- voice commands
- customisation via the Xbox Accessories app on Xbox One and Windows 10
When you buy this controller, you will find quite a number of components in the box alongside the controller and case, as follows - Set of 6 thumbsticks: Standard (2), Classic (2), Tall (1), Wide Dome (1), Set of 4 paddles: Medium (2), Mini (2), Set of 2 D-pads: Standard, Faceted, Thumbstick-adjustment tool, Charging dock & USB-C cable. That is quite a lot of kit.
Of course the advancement in price compared to the original Elite Xbox Wireless Controller, from £120 to £160, might put some people off, as that is almost the price of a console bundled with a standard controller. Serious gamers might find the extras and advancements irresistible, and PC gamers are quite used to splashing similar amounts on peripherals.
