Xbox One Elite Controller Series 2
"The Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 is the best game controller we have ever used."
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Huge buttons and triggers
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Excellent control pad
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Fully customizable rear paddle
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Adjustable analog sticks
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Very solid build
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Case has lots of bells and whistles
Microsoft's standard Xbox One controller lacks the fancy DualShock 4 touch bar on the PS4 or the "HD Rumble" of the Nintendo Switch Joy-Con, but its reliability and design make it undoubtedly great. There is very little to improve – either by correcting features or adding new ones – but Microsoft has found a way with the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2.
With a price tag that matches the impressive design and build quality, it costs the equivalent of three Xbox One games at full price. Even so, it's easy to see why within a few minutes of using it. This is the best video game controller ever made and a simple recommendation for competitive gamers.
What is the same?
The Series 2 Xbox Elite Controller is based on the regular Xbox One controller, so the placement of buttons and sticks feels familiar. Both shoulder buttons and the triggers feel almost identical to the standard Xbox One controller in terms of driving distance and pressure required.
The connectors on the base of the controller reflect the normal model with a 3.5mm jack and the proprietary connector that came with the controllers of the 2013 console. Accessories provided for the standard controller should fit without any problems, unless they need to be wrapped around the back.
This is the best video game controller ever made.
Although the charging port is still next to the sync button, it's USB-C instead of micro-USB, so cable compatibility may be an issue.
Classic Xbox design
Lisa Marie Segarra / Digital Trends
The look can be deceptive, and although the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 looks like a standard Xbox One controller at first inspection and feels like a standard Xbox One controller, it offers a lot of bells and whistles that you won't find in the standard design.
The players will immediately notice that the directional pad is circular, which is strange. Fortunately, it is removable and can be replaced with a traditional cross-style directional pad. After toggling, it becomes the best d-pad I've ever used, with a firm tactile click that doesn't require excessive force. This design will be used for the upcoming Xbox Series X console, so it will be more common by the end of 2020.
Similar to third-party offerings like the Scuf Vantage, the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 has removable analog sticks that are held in place by magnets. They can be easily removed and replaced with the alternatives contained in the carrying case. Players who prefer a convex design can switch easily, as can those who want a shorter or larger racket.
However, the adjustable voltage regulator below is more impressive than the options offered. With an included key, players can move their sticks looser or tighter, depending on their preferences. I found it a bit loose by default, but it took less than a minute to repair and didn't require disassembly other than popping the stick out.
The tension of the triggers themselves cannot be adjusted as with the Scuf Vantage, but they do have a three-stage hair release system. By default, they move roughly to the standard controller, but flipping the switch can reduce that by more than half. For first person shooters, a short travel distance can increase the competitiveness of players and it is possible to leave them in different settings.
New features and customization
Lisa Marie Segarra / Digital Trends
The Series 2 corresponds to the first Elite Controller design from Microsoft and has four removable paddles on the back. By default, they are programmed on each of the four face buttons so you can keep your thumbs on the analog sticks while performing other functions. With the Xbox Accessories app on Xbox One or PC, these can be reprogrammed for other functions, including pressing a button on the analog sticks.
Multiple profiles for specific games or multiple users can be saved. If you hold down the special profile button on the front of the controller, the paddles are completely deactivated. This came in handy when playing hectic games like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, so I didn't have to worry about accidentally swapping a weapon by pounding a paddle. Removing the paddles is a breeze as they are also magnetically connected. If a guest is against it, the removal takes only a few seconds.
The paddles can be completely reprogrammed.
Since the paddles work by pressing a smaller hidden button underneath, they leave a small hole when removed, which is hardly noticeable. No wires are visible inside, and dust or crumbs are unlikely to accumulate if left out permanently. Spending almost $ 200 on a failed controller and removing its biggest feature may seem silly, but the customization is valued above all.
The tote bag is great
Lisa Marie Segarra / Digital Trends
A carrying case is usually no longer considered once the controller has been removed, but Microsoft has chosen the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2. The bag has magnetic slots for all the accessories included. Aside from being easy to store, it improves the transportation of the controller without worrying about one of the small parts rolling around or falling out when the case is opened.
The housing has slots for all the accessories supplied.
It also has an integrated charging station and a hidden cable connection, so you don't have to remove the controller to charge it. It's not a necessity, but it does add a bit of flair to justify the cost.
Our opinion
Yes, it's expensive, but the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 is a phenomenal controller. You will find it difficult to use something else after spending a few hours playing it, and it was difficult for us to find bugs.
Is there a better alternative?
Provided that the price does not matter, there is no better alternative.
How long it will take?
The battery can last up to 40 hours when fully charged. The controller is designed to withstand abuse and is much harder than the standard Xbox One controller.
Should you buy it
Yes, unless you are a very occasional player who doesn't need the frills or doesn't care. It is the best video game controller I have ever used.
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