Microsoft Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Xbox One/PC)

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

Microsoft’s flagship controller, and still the benchmark most pro pads are measured against. The Elite Series 2 is built around adjustability: nearly every part of how it feels in the hand can be changed, saved to a profile, and switched mid-game.

Component swapping is the headline. The box includes six interchangeable thumbsticks (standard, classic, tall and domed), two sets of paddles, and two D-pads — the standard cross and a faceted disc for fighting games. Everything attaches magnetically, so changes take seconds. New for the Series 2 are adjustable-tension thumbsticks, letting you dial in stick resistance with the included tool, and three-position hair trigger locks that shorten trigger travel for faster firing.

Four rear paddles clip on beneath the grips, each mappable to any input, and wrap-around rubberised grips give a secure hold through long sessions. The whole controller is built from noticeably higher-grade materials than the standard pad, with a weight and solidity that’s immediately obvious in the hand.

Unlike the standard Xbox controller, the Elite Series 2 has a built-in rechargeable battery rated at up to 40 hours, charged via the included USB-C cable or by dropping it into the supplied charging dock. Connection is via Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth for Windows, Android and iOS, or USB-C wired.

The Xbox Accessories app on Xbox and Windows handles deeper configuration — button remapping, stick sensitivity curves, trigger and vibration settings — with three custom profiles plus a default stored onboard and switchable using the profile button on the front.

In the box / specifications

• Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows 10/11, Android, iOS
• Connectivity: Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, USB-C wired
• Up to 40 hours rechargeable battery, charging dock included
• 6 thumbsticks, 4 paddles, 2 D-pads
• Adjustable-tension thumbsticks with tool
• Three-position hair trigger locks
• 3 onboard custom profiles + default
• 3.5mm stereo headset jack
• Carry case and USB-C cable included