Xbox Elite 2 controller review: Microsoft’s best Xbox controller just got better

When Microsoft announced the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 earlier this year, I was very interested, but slightly wary. For the past four years, I have been using the Elite controller, which is the best Xbox controller I have ever used. But after a replacement, it happened again because the handle fell off, and since then, I have been playing with the damaged controller. Combined with a similar story, I’ve heard that bumper failures or texture handles slipped into place, and it’s clear that Microsoft has some quality control issues on its original advanced $150 controller.

Microsoft’s design changes to the Xbox Elite 2 controller seem to be mainly c-sounding at first, but they have gotten deeper and really changed the way you use this controller. The first significant change compared to the original product is the new wraparound texture handle. As I wrote before, these grips are controversial on the original Elite controller. In the past two weeks, I have been trying to torture them. I think it can be said that the design of the handle is better than the original. Now they stretch over to your thumb and stretch over the palm of your hand against each part of the Elite 2. This makes the controller’s grip less slippery and almost cool during long game play.

In addition to these new features, Microsoft has made many minor changes that are not immediately apparent. Now, the Xbox button or Elite 2 controller’s power button you use to navigate the Xbox One dashboard is now stronger and louder. There are also three LEDs lit to let you know which profile was selected. Much like the original video, there is no instant button remapping on the device, but you can create three profiles to instantly switch between them.

The Xbox Attachment app allows you to fully customize all the buttons on your Elite 2 controller. There are four additional paddles on the back that may be a bit redundant for most people. I have always found it more comfortable to use one or two of the blades and remove the unused blades. This choice and flexibility reflects the level of customization you get with the Elite 2 controller.

I have mapped the “Jump” button to one of the paddles so I can do it in the shooting game without having to remove the thumb from my fingertips. It definitely gives me a slight advantage of the fast-paced first-person shooter mobility compared to competitors using conventional controllers. You can also map options such as “Record” to record your gameplay.

The new feature of Xbox Elite 2 is the use of button shifts. Option. This means that you can hold down the joystick or button and activate the remapping commands for any other button on the controller. This macro-like feature is especially useful for strategy games that require fast and continuous input of many actions, built in Fortnite and even to improve sensitivity to the target. Dejected scene.

The Xbox Accessories app does allow you to make a lot of customizations here, almost an overwhelming choice. I like this flexibility, and I’m sure we’ll bring a lot of interesting options for various games here.

Microsoft also adjusted the triggers on Elite 2 to have texture patches and the option to use shorter locks that trigger hair. You can adjust these triggered locks in three levels, and the two triggers can be individually adjusted to these different lengths. I hope that these can be associated with profile switching, because in a game like “Destiny 2” I found that I hope that the trigger length of some guns is shorter, and I will periodically update in PvP games. Exchange loads and weapons. [194590] [194590] [194590] [194459066] [194459067]

Another major change in the input mode of the Elite 2 controller is the adjustable tension finger lever. I like what Microsoft does here. There is a metal adjuster in the box that looks like a SIM card removal tool that you can use like a screwdriver to adjust the tension of your fingertips. Simply pop the fingertip cap and slide the tool into place to choose between three levels of tension. The default setting is the loose style used on every Xbox One controller today, but at the third level you feel very nervous. I am still trying every game, but I am used to the tension between the middle, so it is more important than normal.

Much like the original Elite, Microsoft also offers a set of six interchangeable fingertips with two standards, two classic (Xbox 360 style) and a single high and wide dome option. You can also find multifaceted D-pads or standard keyboards on all Xbox One controllers.

Microsoft also added USB-C and Bluetooth support to the Elite 2 controller. This way, travel with this controller and easily use it on your laptop or even on mobile games and Microsoft Project xCloud Preview iOS or Android devices. The only downside is that if you pair this device with another device, it will delete any devices you have previously paired with. Therefore, you can’t use it on a Windows 10 PC and then easily switch to Xbox One without having to manually re-pair each time. This is an annoying problem, especially considering that Microsoft has solved this problem with a Surface headset that seamlessly switches between devices.

USB-C charging is a good complement, and Microsoft even includes a smart charging dock in the suitcase of the Elite 2 controller. Simply place the charger on top of this magnetic base and connect the USB-C cable to the back of the case to charge anytime, anywhere. I have removed the dock from the box and placed it on the table, but the box integration is perfect for traveling. The only downside to this charging dock is that Microsoft has replaced the built-in battery for the Elite 2. Microsoft promises to play for 40 hours on a single charge, and I think I have almost reached this number in the past two seasons. week. When charging, the micro LED above the profile switch button glows amber. [194590] [194590] [194590]

Of course, it is impossible to know the service life of this battery. I used to use rechargeable battery solutions on the Xbox One, and these solutions were used up in a few months. When using the Elite 2, I used to simply dock it after most sessions, but if the battery on my previous Elite controller was used up, I just need to replace the battery. This is no longer an option, I have to stop playing or connect the USB-C cable to continue. I really hope that battery life will remain stable over the next few months.

Now, the only thing that really lacks on the Elite 2 controller is the button remapping on the device that some professionals would like to see. In addition, I feel that Microsoft has really solved most of the complaints about the original Elite controller and introduced some great new options, such as adjustable tension on the fingertips. I really hope that Elite 2 will remain stable in the coming months. Of course, in the next few weeks and months, we will pay close attention to battery life, bumpers and textured grips, but for now, the best Xbox controllers have become better. If you are willing to spend $179.99 on the Xbox controller, then the upgrade is worth it.