Product test

The über-controller: Xbox Elite Wireless 2 tested

16.12.2019

Translation: machine translated

How much is a really good controller worth to you? Microsoft hopes almost 200 francs or euros. That's how much the new Xbox Elite Wireless 2 costs, and it really is worth the money.

Playstation users are still waiting in vain for an official Pro Controller six years after the launch of the PS4. Meanwhile, Xbox gamers are already receiving the third version of the Elite Controller. While last year's white model was merely a visual upgrade, the Elite 2 is a true successor. It is even more expensive than its predecessor, but it irons out the last wrinkles and adds a few more features.

Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Xbox One X, PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox One S, Xbox Series S)

Game controllers

EUR159,32

Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

Xbox One X, PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox One S, Xbox Series S

Chic and handy

You can feel the price of the Elite 2 at first touch. Compared to the standard Xbox controller or even a Dualshock 4, it feels much more robust. This is also due to its weight. At 345 grams, it is considerably heavier than the controllers supplied, which weigh just 280 g (Xbox One) and 210 g (PlayStation 4) respectively. This makes it slightly better balanced than the first model.

Optically, Microsoft has only made minimal changes. The Elite 2 is almost completely black, only the triggers have the typical gunmetal look, which gives the whole thing a more serious look.

New is that the front and back of the handles are now covered with a hatched surface. This makes the Elite 2 even easier to grip. Even the trigger buttons are ribbed. The texture of the Scuf Infinity for PS4 gives me a bit more grip, but along with the shape, buttons and sticks, the Elite 2 is hands down the best controller I've ever held in my hands. Every button from the menu button to the X,Y,A,B buttons to the triggers feels just right. The trigger sensitivities are perfectly tuned and I like the shape of the buttons too.

Like its predecessor, the Elite 2 comes in a stylish carrying case. This is probably primarily intended for e-sports enthusiasts who need to transport the controller frequently. However, in view of the future of streaming with xCloud, it is also likely to be used by a wider audience. The case not only offers space for cables and the detachable pedals and sticks, it even has its own USB-C port. This allows you to charge the controller while it is in the case. And you heard right, the Elite 2 no longer relies on the outdated micro USB standard but has jumped on the USB-C bandwagon.

However, I can't quite understand the decision to use an internal battery instead of a replaceable battery pack or AA batteries. The previous solution was not only more flexible, but also more sustainable. Now you no longer have the option of replacing the battery if its performance decreases. The fact that the battery lasts 40 to 50 hours is again an impressive achievement.

Like the controller of the Xbox One S or X, the Elite 2 also supports Bluetooth in addition to Wi-Fi. This means you can connect it to your smartphone or connect it to a laptop.

Even more customisable

You can still replace the analogue sticks and the directional pad. Thanks to the magnetic attachment method, this can be done in no time at all. The two analogue sticks with a hatched surface are installed as standard. However, two with a smooth surface are also included. There is also a hatched analogue stick, which is longer and particularly popular for fighting games. Last but not least, there is a short stick with a convex surface. I only use the short hatched ones. I hope the surface wears out less quickly than its predecessor - after just one year, only the underside is still rough. For the directional pad, you have the classic cross and a round one to choose from.

There are four detachable pedals on the back. This gives you four additional assignable buttons. This is primarily an advantage if you need trigger and bumper buttons in games but don't want to place your index and middle fingers on the corresponding buttons at the same time. This makes it less stable to hold the controller in your hand, which is why many gamers prefer to move the trigger function to pedals on the back. This allows you to hold the controller firmly and still press the necessary buttons. Whether you use just two or all four pedals is up to you. However, I would definitely remove them if you don't need them, otherwise you'll quickly press them by mistake.

And that's not all the configuration options. You can also adjust the trigger point of the trigger buttons. Separately for left and right. To do this, simply adjust the small lever below the triggers. Compared to the first Elite, you now have three profiles to choose from. Whether you prefer short trigger travel for shooters or long travel to accelerate with more feeling in racing games; the choice is yours.

Another new feature is that you can adjust the resistance of the analogue sticks. All you have to do is remove the magnetic sticks and adjust the screw underneath using the tool provided. There are three positions. I like the centre position best. This gives the stick a pleasant resistance, which allows for more precise movements. For me, it's not a match-deciding feature, but a very welcome one.

And because that's not enough customisability, you can use the Xbox Accessories app for Windows to make even more settings on your controller. Not only can you freely remap all buttons to your liking, you can also adjust the way triggers or sticks are triggered and their sensitivity. For example, whether the sticks should always be sensitive in exactly the same way or whether they should first react slowly and then very reactively. You can really let off steam here. You can then save up to three profiles on the controller and switch freely between them using the corresponding button. An LED display shows you which profile is currently active.

Conclusion: A lot of money for a lot of controller

When a controller costs almost as much as the entire console, it must have a hell of a lot to offer. And the Xbox Wireless Elite 2 delivers. It has a first-class finish, feels great in the hand and offers customisation options to the max. The Elite 2 leaves nothing to be desired. It's a shame that it doesn't have batteries or a replaceable battery, but this is compensated for by the excellent battery performance.

If money is no object and you're looking for the best controller for PC and Xbox One, then there's probably no way around the Elite 2. And since Microsoft has already made it clear that the new Xbox Series X will also be compatible with old controllers, you don't have to worry that the device will be obsolete in a year's time.

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Philipp Rüegg

Senior Editor

Philipp.Rueegg@digitecgalaxus.ch

As a child, I wasn't allowed to have any consoles. It was only with the arrival of the family's 486 PC that the magical world of gaming opened up to me. Today, I'm overcompensating accordingly. Only a lack of time and money prevents me from trying out every game there is and decorating my shelf with rare retro consoles.

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