At E3 2019, Microsoft showed off its new Xbox Elite Controller Series 2, which we've been talking about for quite a while. Many of our previous rumors were confirmed, including an internal battery, complete with a charging dock, three profiles with indicator lights, improved hair trigger locks, tension control for the joysticks, and an array of other small refinements.
During the showcase, we managed to get a closer look at the new Xbox Elite Controller Series 2, so you can get a better idea of what to expect.
For the most part, the Series 2 looks relatively familiar at first glance, but the devil's in the details. The grips on the reverse now cover more of the bodywork across the back and seem to have less clearance off the plastic than the previous Elite controller. Owners of the previous controller have long reported flimsy rubber grips, which had a tendency to fall off after a while. Microsoft has never officially owned the problem, but I've had it happen to two Elite controllers in my possession. Hopefully, this new manufacturing process will solve those issues.
The new controller sports Bluetooth finally as well, making it a powerful and highly configurable option for PC gaming too. As you can see, the controller sports three lights which represent separate profiles you can arrange for different games, swapping out keybinds and so on. The triggers also have refined locking states, and have rubberized grips.
The charging dock looks similar to solutions we've seen from third parties over the years. It's hard to tell how it'll work in practice since we weren't able to get hands-on, but hopefully, it'll sport a magnetic functionality to help keep it stabilized.
We won't know just how good it is until we get to give it rigorous testing when it launches on November 4, 2019. As good as the last Elite controller was, issues with wear and tear on the rubber grips and triggers held it back from achieving true greatness. We'll have to wait and see if the new version has ironed out the manufacturing troubles. If you're ready to go, it's available now for preorder.
At long last, the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller has been updated. Series 2 brings big improvements to the table, such as Bluetooth connectivity, a charging dock, adjustable tension for the thumbsticks, and much more.
Excellent and affordable Xbox accessories
Up your Xbox experience with one (or all) of these budget accessories, all of which are approved by the gamers of Windows Central.
PowerA Play & Charge Kit for Xbox One ($15 at Amazon)
This charging kit keeps your Xbox One wireless controllers juiced up, and it offers batteries for two controllers. At just $15, this is hands-down our favorite budget charging companion.
ElecGear 4 Port USB Xbox One S Hub ($19 at Amazon)
This brilliant little USB splitter hub attaches perfectly to the side of your Xbox One S console. It's ideal for use with chargers, controllers, headsets, and more.
Controller Gear stand ($13 at Amazon)
Proudly display your Xbox gamepads with this stylish and functional stand. The licensed design is minimalist and black, and it has a hidden storage compartment, making the price of $13 a real steal.
