Microsoft has released the new Elite Series 2 Core controller. Available in white, it’s a more affordable option for a “pro” Xbox controller, but it loses most accessories like paddles and interchangeable thumbsticks. They now come in a separate optional package. After reading the release and checking the website listing and seeing “redesigned components”, I decided to pick one up and see how it performs. So far, for better or worse, it seems more of the same. Make sure to click on the video below to see all the details.
I’ve been a fan of the Elite series since its launch – I’ve played a first generation Elite for years with no issues. However, for some gamers, this line of controllers has been a huge headache. Every time I talk about how much I like them in one of my controller reviews, the YouTube comments section fills up with gamers who have had issues with them.
So when Microsoft announced the Elite Series 2 Core saying it had redesigned components built to last, I knew I had to get one. Is it still plagued by the face button or bumper issues that so many reviews have mentioned before?
At $130 for the controller itself and $60 for the accessory pack, my total came to $203 with tax. That’s more expensive than the older Elite Series 2 non-core, which comes with the same accessories for $180, but can often be found for less.
Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Controller: Design
As far as I know, the only design difference is that the Elite 2 Core comes in a white colorway. Even though my Xbox Series X is black, the white controller looks sharp. It may show more grime over time, but I’m not too concerned about that. I let my kids play with the stock controller with their dirty hands.
Otherwise, the Elite 2 Core has all the design features of the non-core. You can find my review of that controller here for more details. Rubberized grips, three-way adjustable trigger stops, three custom profiles and adjustable thumbstick tension are all top features of this Core controller.
It still has a 40-hour internal battery that is rechargeable via the included USB-C cable for the core controller.
Elite 2 complete components package
The $60 Complete Components Pack takes the Elite 2 Core to the same customization options as the standard Elite 2 controller by adding a carrying/charging case, four paddles, four additional thumbsticks with different designs, and an interchangeable D-pad.
Alternatively, if you want the paddles but don’t want to pay $60 for the whole kit, there are 3rd party paddles available on Amazon for around $11 with some decent reviews. I wanted to get the full kit for this review, so I chose to go with the one from Microsoft.
Personally, the paddles are the main reason I love the Elite controller so much. They are the best implementation of buttons on the back of a controller I’ve tried. Once you get used to that setup, it’s very comfortable.
Xbox Elite 2 Core Controller: Video
Xbox Elite Series 2 Core: In Use
If everything works as intended, the Elite Series 2 Core is still the best Xbox controller I’ve used. The paddle setup is my favorite way to increase what a controller is capable of. If you’re still using an OG Elite controller, the Elite Series 2 and Series 2 Core paddles require a little more power to operate than the original.
Otherwise the D-pad is responsive and the sticks perform well for me so far. They are snappy and responsive and I haven’t noticed any stick drift in the short amount of time I’ve been using them. When testing the sticks on gamepad-tester.com, there is a bit of input when I return the sticks to neutral, but I haven’t seen any floating sticks in the game.
Some problems persist
As exciting as it was to hear that the Elite 2 might be getting better, unfortunately it’s not all perfect. A Reddit user posted a video showing some serious face button registration issues. I too have had similar problems. While it’s not as bad as what the video showed, I occasionally notice face button inputs not registering. I would say maybe 5% of the time I press the “a” face button or “y” face button the input is not registered.
Another YouTube channel, Gamer Haven, also released a full teardown of the Core controller versus a stock Elite 2, and visually there is no difference. Everything turns out to be the same.
I’ve reached out to get feedback on exactly which components have been “redesigned” with the Elite 2 Core controller, but haven’t heard back from my contacts yet. Unfortunately, it seems like nothing has changed.
It’s a huge shame that this issue persists as many buyers had issues with it on the older model. The Elite Series 2 has been around since mid-2019. It should have been an obvious area in need of improvement, along with everything else Microsoft decided to tackle. In fact, I’d think customers would be fine with paying more money to ensure their “premium” Microsoft Xbox controller would be reliable for years to come. I know I would, at least.
Now the Elite series is a mixed bag for most. Many users have had different problems, but there are just as many who have had no problems. My original Elite controller still works fine. So there’s a chance that if you get one, you’ll be all right. But, it’s a gamble. Given the language used in the press release and on the Xbox website, I’m quite disappointed to see that it doesn’t look like the controller has actually been updated at all. I may have misinterpreted it, but I also feel that the “components redesigned” line is quite misleading.
9to5Toys Take
I’m hoping to hear from someone from the Xbox hardware team or their PR company to find out exactly what has changed with the Elite 2 Core controller. But unfortunately, it still looks like there could be issues with these controllers that will plague buyers. As Xbox’s premium offering with years of feedback and returns, this just shouldn’t be a thing anymore.
Subscribe to the 9to5Toys YouTube channel for the latest videos, reviews and more!
0 Comments