Xbox has just revealed a new variant of Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. The original Xbox One Elite Wireless Controller was released in 2015 and offered more features and various customization options for users to personalize their experience.
In 2019, Microsoft released an upgraded version of this controller called Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. It came with a few new features such as improved grips, adjustable-tension thumbsticks, and an additional hair trigger lock. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 was priced at $179.99, and Xbox has now revealed another variant of the Elite controller at a new price point.
The new controller is called Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Core, and it comes in white. The Core version includes all the essential parts of the Elite controller, including the rubberized grip, shorter hair trigger locks, and adjustable-tension thumbsticks. Furthermore, it boasts a battery life of up to 40 hours and comes with all the customization options available to owners of the Elite Series 2. However, there is a big difference between the standard and the Core variants of the Elite Series 2 controllers. The regular Elite Series 2 controller comes with a set of premium interchangeable parts including different paddle shapes, D-pad, and thumbsticks that are absent from the Core version. Additionally, it has a carrying case and a charging dock which are not included with the Core variant.
As a result, Microsoft has priced Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Core at $129.99. Customers who want to purchase the interchangeable parts can opt to buy the Complete Component Pack for $59.99. Fans in select markets can pre-order both the controller and the interchangeable parts bundle starting today. Finally, Microsoft also confirms that it’s bringing the Elite Series 2 controllers to Xbox Design Lab this holiday, allowing users to further personalize their devices.
Footage of the white Xbox Elite Series 2 controller leaked last month, although many probably expected it to be a simple color swap. The reduced price point may push new users to give the Elite controller a chance, and this move gives customers an option to purchase the interchangeable parts later down the line.
Sony revealed its own version of a Pro controller at Gamescom Opening Night Live. The new PS5 controller is called DualSense Edge, and it comes with several customization options for players to personalize their gameplay experience. Sony has not revealed the price or release date for the DualSense Edge controller, and it’ll be interesting to see how it compares to the Elite Series 2 controllers whenever it launches.