The Xbox Elite 2 controller is viewed as one of the best controllers money can buy. As the second entry in the Xbox Elite controller series, it makes many subtle changes that help distinguish it from the original model.
When it launched back in 2015, the Xbox One Elite controller was the best controller on the market for Xbox users. Providing all the comforts of the the newly redesigned Xbox One controller plus multiple customization options like back-paddles and interchangable thumb sticks, the first Elite controller set a new standard that all controllers were held to from then on. With the launch of the Elite 2 controller, the question then became how such a strong design could be improved upon. Well, the team at Microsoft found many slight areas to make the Elite series better, ranging from the actual controller's design to further internal refinements of features found in the Elite 1.
The External Differences Between the Xbox Elite 1 and 2
At first glance, the controllers look practically identical. They retain the same shape, with smooth handles that fit into the palm of the hand, interchangable thumbsticks, directional-pad, and back paddles, and the iconic Xbox "X" sits confidently at the center top of the controller. However, upon closer examination, the distinctions of Xbox Elite 2 become apparent, with differences that make for an all-around cleaner, softer-looking controller. The sleek design of the Xbox Elite 2 helps make it a great controller.
Overall, the hard lines and bright accents of the Xbox Elite 1 have been done away with in the Xbox Elite 2. Looking at the front of the controller, the handles that were once just plastic have been replaced with a textured, rubberized grip, that wraps all the way around the controller's wings. Likewise, the tips of the triggers now feature a similar textured surface, catching the finger instead of the smooth plastic of the Elite 1. Lastly, the neon green accents of the Elite 1, not like the forest green of the Halo Infinite Xbox Elite 2, have been completely done away with. The Xbox Elite 2 controller is entirely black.
The Internal Differences Between the Xbox Elite 1 and 2
To put it simply, the Xbox Elite 2 can do everything that the Xbox Elite 1 does, but with more customization and additional features. Starting once again with the front of the controllers, the thumbsticks of the Elite 2 have been overhauled, allowing users to adjust the tension in their movements. This does not conflict with controller dead zone or sensitivity—both are still in play. With the enhanced resistance, ideally there is actually less movement occurring. This allows for players to adjust their aim more precisely making snipes in Call of Duty: Warzone and other shooters that much easier.
As for the back of the controller, much is the same between the two models. Both controllers offer limitless button mapping options with the four-included back paddles, as well as unparalleled control with the hair trigger locks. These Impulse Triggers were introduced with the Xbox Elite 1, and are controlled by a toggle switch, allowing players to adjust how far they must pull the trigger for the controller to read the input. On the Elite 2, the hair trigger locks can be adjusted even shorter. However, it is worth noting that the triggers lack built-in rumble, not operating like the adaptive triggers of the PS5's DualSense.