I’ve been a gamer for as long as I can remember, and over the years, I’ve learned that a good controller can make all the difference in my gaming experience. But when it comes to competitive gaming, I needed something more. That’s when I started to look into the world of “pro” controllers, and the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller seemed like the perfect fit for my needs.
- Sold as 1 Each.
- Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 for Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series X and PC. Tailor...
- Swap thumbstick toppers, D-pads, and paddles to tailor your controller to your preferred gaming...
- Stay in the game for longer with up to 40 hours of rechargeable battery life and refined components...
Things to Think About Before Buying a Pro Controller
Pro controllers are designed to give you an edge in competitive gaming by offering features like back paddles, adjustable thumbsticks, and customizable button mapping. They’re a great investment if you’re serious about improving your game, but they’re not for everyone. If you’re a casual gamer, or if you’re on a tight budget, a standard controller might be a better option.
Before you buy a pro controller, there are a few things you should consider:
- Your Gaming Style: Are you a competitive gamer who needs every edge? Or are you more of a casual gamer who just wants to enjoy themselves?
- Budget: Pro controllers can be expensive, so make sure you’re comfortable with the price tag.
- Compatibility: Make sure the controller is compatible with your gaming console or PC.
- Features: What features are most important to you? Back paddles, adjustable thumbsticks, customizable button mapping?
Introducing the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller
The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller is a premium controller designed for competitive gamers. It boasts features like adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grip, shorter hair trigger locks, and interchangeable components. With customizable button mapping and up to 40 hours of battery life, this controller promises to elevate your gaming experience to the next level.
Compared to its predecessor, the Elite Series 2 Core is a more streamlined version, offering many of the same core features but at a lower price point. It’s a great option for gamers who don’t need the full suite of features and accessories found in the original Elite Series 2.
Here are some pros and cons of the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core:
- Pros:
- Exceptional build quality
- Adjustable thumbstick tension for a customized feel
- Back paddles for enhanced control
- Comfortable grip
- Long battery life
- Cons:
- Expensive
- No interchangeable components (like the full Elite Series 2)
- Some users have reported issues with button responsiveness
Features & Benefits: A Deeper Dive
Adjustable Thumbstick Tension
One of the most talked-about features of the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller is its adjustable thumbstick tension. This feature allows you to fine-tune the resistance of the thumbsticks to match your personal preference.
If you prefer a tighter, more responsive feel, you can crank up the tension. For a looser, more relaxed feel, you can loosen the tension. This is a great feature for competitive gamers who want to make sure their thumbsticks are perfectly calibrated for their playstyle.
The adjustable tension is achieved through a small screw located at the base of each thumbstick. To adjust the tension, simply use a small screwdriver to turn the screw clockwise to increase the tension or counterclockwise to decrease it.
Back Paddles
The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller also features four back paddles that you can customize to perform various actions. This allows you to map actions like reload, jump, or melee to the back paddles, freeing up your thumbs for other inputs.
The back paddles are incredibly responsive and well-placed. The placement of the paddles feels natural and intuitive, and I found myself easily adapting to using them in my games. The paddles are made from a durable material, and they feel solid and reliable.
The ability to remap the back paddles in the Xbox Accessories app is also a huge plus. You can easily customize the paddles to match your specific needs and preferences. This makes the controller much more versatile, and it allows you to adapt it to any game you play.
Hair Trigger Locks
The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller also comes with hair trigger locks that allow you to shorten the travel distance of the triggers. This can be beneficial in games where quick trigger responses are essential.
The hair trigger locks are activated by a switch on the back of the controller. This switch allows you to instantly adjust the triggers between normal and shortened travel distance. The locks are very effective, and I noticed a significant difference in my trigger response times when using them.
I found that the hair trigger locks were particularly useful in first-person shooters, where I could fire more quickly and accurately.
Wrap-Around Rubberized Grip
The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller features a wrap-around rubberized grip that provides a secure and comfortable hold. This grip helps to prevent the controller from slipping, even during intense gaming sessions.
The rubberized grip is very effective, and I found that it significantly improved my control over the controller. I also found that it made the controller more comfortable to hold for long periods, which was a big plus.
Customizable Button Mapping
The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller allows you to customize button mapping to your liking. You can remap almost any button on the controller, including the face buttons, shoulder buttons, and back paddles.
The ability to customize button mapping is a game-changer for competitive gamers. It allows you to create a controller layout that perfectly suits your personal preferences.
I’ve found that button mapping can be particularly useful for assigning specific actions to the back paddles, as this allows me to perform those actions more quickly and efficiently.
The Verdict: Is the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core a Worthwhile Investment?
While I’ve been impressed with the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller‘s build quality, customizability, and comfort, there are some downsides that might deter some gamers.
One notable drawback is the price point, which can be a barrier for some gamers. However, considering the features and build quality, the cost might be justifiable for those serious about competitive gaming.
Another concern is the lack of interchangeable components, which can be a big draw for some gamers. However, for those who don’t need the full suite of customization options offered by the full Elite Series 2, the Core version can be a more affordable and practical choice.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to buy the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller depends on your personal needs and preferences. If you’re a competitive gamer who wants the best possible controller, this is a great option. However, if you’re a casual gamer or if you’re on a tight budget, you might want to consider a standard controller.
What Other Gamers Say
I’ve scoured the internet to get a feel for what other gamers think about the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller, and it seems to be a popular choice amongst those looking for a premium controller. Many gamers have raved about its features and responsiveness, making it a top contender in the competitive gaming market.
The Bottom Line
If you’re searching for a controller that can enhance your gaming performance and provide a comfortable, customized experience, the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller is a solid choice. It offers a balance of features and affordability, making it a great option for competitive gamers who want to improve their gameplay.
Click here to check it out and see if it’s the right fit for you!