The Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 is that the best game controller ever. Seriously.
Microsoft’s standard Xbox One controller lacks the flamboyant touch bar of the PS4’s DualShock 4 or the “HD Rumble” of the Nintendo Switch Joy-Con, but its reliability and style make it undeniably great. there's little or no to enhance – either by correcting features or adding new ones – but Microsoft found how with the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2.
With a tag to match its impressive design and build quality, it costs the equivalent of three full-priced Xbox One games. Still, it’s easy to ascertain why within a couple of minutes of using it. this is often the simplest computer game controller ever made, and a simple recommendation for competitive players.
What’s the same?
The Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 is predicated on the regular Xbox One controller, therefore the button and stick placement feel familiar. Both shoulder buttons and therefore the triggers feel almost just like the quality Xbox One controller, in terms of travel distance and required pressure.
The ports on the bottom of the controller mirror the traditional model, with a 3.5mm jack also because the proprietary port that shipped with the 2013 console’s controllers. Any accessories meant for the quality controller should fit it without issue, provided they don’t got to wrap round the back.
This is the simplest computer game controller ever made.
Though the charging port remains next to the syncing button, it’s USB-C rather than micro-USB, so cable compatibility could also be a problem .
Classic Xbox design
Looks are often deceiving, and despite resembling and feeling sort of a standard Xbox One controller upon first inspection, the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 offers plenty of bells and whistles you won’t find on the quality design.
Immediately, players will notice the directional pad is circular, which is odd. Luckily, it’s removable and may get replaced with a standard cross-style directional pad. Once switched, it becomes the simplest directional pad I’ve ever used, with a firm tactile click that doesn’t require excessive force. This design are going to be used for the upcoming Xbox Series X console, so it’ll be more common by the top of 2020.
Much like third-party offerings like the Scuf Vantage, the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 features removable analog sticks held in situ by magnets. They’re easy to pop off and replace with the alternatives included within the carrying case. Players preferring a convex design can easily switch, as can those that need a shorter or taller stick.
What’s more impressive than the choices offered, however, is that the adjustable tension dial underneath. Using an included key, players can give their sticks looser or tighter movement to suit their preference. I found them slightly loose by default, but fixing this took but a moment and required no disassembly apart from popping off the stick.
The triggers themselves can’t have their tension adjusted just like the Scuf Vantage, but they are doing have a three-level hair-trigger system. By default, they travel about as far because the standard controller, but flipping the switch can cut this down by quite half. For first-person shooters, a brief travel distance can make players more competitive, and it’s possible to go away them in several settings.
New features and customization
Sticking with Microsoft’s first Elite Controller design, the Series 2 features four removable paddles on its back. By default, they’re programmed to every of the four face buttons, which allows you to keep your thumbs on the analog sticks while performing other functions. Using the Xbox Accessories app on the Xbox One or PC, these are often reprogrammed to other functions, including a button press from the analog sticks.
Several profiles are often saved for particular games or multiple users, and holding within the special profile button on the front of the controller will disable the paddles completely. This came in handy when playing hectic games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, so I didn’t need to worry about accidentally swapping a weapon by bumping a paddle. Removing the paddles may be a breeze since they’re also magnetically connected. If a guest is against them, removing them only takes a couple of seconds.The paddles are often completely reprogrammed.
Because the paddles function by hitting a smaller hidden button underneath, they leave a small hole when removed, but it’s hardly noticeable. No wires show inside and it’s unlikely to cause any dust or crumb buildup if they’re overlooked permanently. it's going to seem silly to spend almost $200 on a flowery controller and take away its biggest feature, but customization is valued in particular else.
The carry case is great
A carrying case usually isn’t given a reconsideration once the controller is removed, but Microsoft went all out with the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2. The case features magnetic slots for all of the included accessories. apart from easy storage, it improves transporting the controller without fear if any of the tiny pieces will start rolling around or fall out when opening the case.
Plus, it's a built-in charging dock and hidden wire port, meaning you won’t need to remove the controller to charge it. While it’s not a necessity, it does add a pleasant little bit of flair to assist justify the value .
Our take
Yes, it’s expensive, but the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 may be a phenomenal controller. You’ll find it difficult to use anything after spending a couple of play sessions with it, and that we were hard-pressed to seek out any flaws.Is there a far better alternative?
Provided that price isn’t a problem , there’s no a far better alternative.
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