Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller Hits Lowest Price of the Year
▼ Summary
– The controller features four removable back paddles that can be used individually or together, located for natural finger placement.
– It includes customizable components such as swappable stick caps, adjustable stick tension, and interchangeable directional pads for personalized use.
– Users can create and switch between three control profiles via the Xbox Accessories App, allowing remapping of paddles, stick sensitivity, and vibration settings.
– The Elite Series 2 has a rechargeable battery lasting up to 40 hours, supports USB-C charging, and comes with a braided cable and magnetic dock.
– Released in 2019, it is praised as the top premium controller for Xbox and PC, noted for its ergonomics, weight distribution, textured grips, and sturdy build.
For gamers seeking a competitive edge, the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller delivers a premium, highly customizable experience that stands out from standard offerings. Its defining feature is a set of four removable back paddles, thoughtfully positioned where your fingers naturally rest. Players can choose to use all four simultaneously or opt for a single paddle on each side, tailoring the setup to their personal playstyle.
While the paddles attract significant attention, the controller’s customization doesn’t stop there. It includes six interchangeable thumbstick caps for its high-quality metal analog sticks, and a special tool lets you adjust the tension on both sticks to your preference. It is important to note that these are not Hall Effect sticks, so stick drift remains a possibility, just as with the standard Xbox Wireless Controller. Many users, however, report no such issues with their own devices.
A unique circular 8-way directional pad is designed for swift, precise movements, though it may require a short adjustment period. For those who prefer a classic layout, a traditional 4-way D-pad is included as a swappable alternative. Further expanding its versatility, the Elite Series 2 features physical switches on the back that allow you to lock the triggers at three distinct stopping points, perfect for different game genres.
Using the Xbox Accessories App, you can create and save up to three distinct control profiles directly onto the controller. These profiles can be cycled through instantly during gameplay. The app provides deep customization, letting you remap the paddles and other buttons, and fine-tune settings like stick sensitivity and vibration intensity.
A major quality-of-life improvement over the standard controller is its integrated rechargeable battery, which boasts an impressive battery life of up to 40 hours on a single charge. Charging is convenient via the USB-C port or by simply placing the controller on the included magnetic charging dock. The package also comes with a braided nine-foot USB-C cable that stores neatly in the carrying case’s mesh compartment.
Even though it launched in 2019, the Elite Series 2 continues to be regarded as the top-tier premium controller for both Xbox and PC. After extensive testing of numerous high-end controllers across all major platforms, its ergonomic design and overall feel remain unmatched. The superior weight distribution, textured grips, and a noticeably sturdier shell create a tangible difference that is apparent the moment you pick it up.
(Source: GameSpot)
