Microsoft claims to produce the world's most advanced controllers, and the Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is the poster boy of this campaign. Coming at $179 MSRP, this is hands down, one of the most expensive, if not the most expensive, controllers in the market. Now that we've gotten the price out of the way (which is the controller's only downside) let's get on to the controller's features.
It would be a total letdown if all that money is spent on a brick, but thankfully the Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 delivers on its promise. It is indeed a great controller to play with. It raises the standards on what a premium gaming controller should be like.
Improved Grip
One of the reasons why you won't be putting this controller down is its improved grip design. Aside from its rubberized texture that keeps the controller from slipping, it's very comfortable and ergonomic.
The fact that all the buttons are perfectly placed on the face of the controller helps drive the point home. Even if you'd have to reach on to the shoulder buttons (which have their own rubberized grips) from behind the controller, it never slips. The grips really add to the gaming experience.
Face Buttons, D-Pad, Shoulder Buttons
At first, the face buttons, especially the D-Pad, felt a bit stiff. However, it only took some getting used to, and the controller felt natural already. It might have just been resistance experienced from switching controllers, which caused the initial discomfort, but it became unnoticeable after hours of gaming.
The shoulder buttons also feel perfect. The trigger buttons could be customized to three different modes, each allowing you to control how deep they press. Shorter trigger locks let you fire faster, for example.
In addition to the shoulder buttons, there are four silver paddles at the back of the controller, which you could be programmed for other functions, like taking screenshots, or just mapped for extra access to some buttons.
With lots of buttons ready to be mapped, Series 2 is a hardcore gamer's dream controller.
Customizable Analog Sticks
When it comes to the analog sticks, the Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is fit for all kinds of gamers. The default tightness of the controllers is just fine, making for a comfortable control stick.
If that doesn't suit your needs, you could change the sticks' sensitivity with just a little tinkering. That way, you could change how much pressure is needed to press and move them.
The thumbsticks themselves could be changed, with several options to choose from. The Elite Series 2 comes with two standards, two classics, one tall and one white dome. Mix and match the thumbsticks to find the ideal configuration for the situation.
If you need a more clicky way to move around, you could also add the optional faceted D-Pad.
Revolutionary Charging
The Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 also packs a lot of juice. It could last for forty hours before needing a recharge. Its USB-C ports could be used to charge them on any wall socket, but the controller also comes with an innovative charging dock.
The charging dock itself is portable, so you could carry it around and charge your controller anywhere you go.The controller case included in the package is capable of housing the various accessories in addition to the dedicated space for the charging dock. This will allow you to charge the controller without removing it from the case.
Connectivity
The Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is compatible with both Xbox One and Windows devices, although theoretically, it can be used with any Bluetooth and USB-C compatible devices as well.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Microsoft's Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 is the best controller anyone could get if you're willing to shell out $180 for it. It's deadly expensive, but it's not like you'd ever need a different controller ever again.
