The Xbox Elite Series 2 wireless controller has long been our favorite high-end PC game console, but its $179 price tag is a hefty investment. Fortunately, Xbox just released a slightly less-expensive $129 version of this excellent gamepad that has the same great design with an emphasis on the essentials — and comes in a sleek white to boot.
Pre-orders and release date for the Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller
The Xbox Elite Wireless Series 2 Core Wireless Controller is available for $129 in white for pre-order now from Microsoft and will ship on September 21st. You can also order a complete component bundle for $59, which includes all the interchangeable parts found in the Standard Series 2 and is slated to launch the same day.
The $129 Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Wireless Controller in white (yes, it’s full of life) is basically the same console as its more expensive sibling, just without the interchangeable components and carrying case you’d get on the more expensive model. This means you still get a satisfyingly bulky controller with a firm rubber grip, durable buttons, a versatile circular D-pad and thumb stick adjuster as well as the ability to fully remap controls and create custom profiles via the Xbox Accessories app on Xbox and PC . It will work on Xbox One, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and gaming PCs. As the name suggests, this new version of the console comes in white, which pops a bit more than its all-black predecessor.
And if you decide you want all those extra parts down the line, you can opt for a complete component pack for $59. This bundle brings you all the interchangeable components found on the standard Elite Series 2, including four rear paddles, four interchangeable thumb sticks, an interchangeable D-pad, and a carrying case that also charges the controller. In my years with the Elite Series 2, I’ve found that paddles are going to be a huge game-changer to optimally play first-person shooters like Halo and Call of Duty, so competing players may want to consider getting the full set in the end. . It’s also worth noting that the standard Elite Series 2 is currently discounted to $154.99 in the Microsoft Store, which will save you some money in the long run if you plan on using all of its components.
Plus, after years of fan requests, the Elite Series 2 controller is also coming to Xbox Design Lab, Microsoft’s boutique console store where you can customize your console with unique color patterns. It’s coming this holiday, and based on previous Design Lab builds, it’ll likely cost a bit more than the console’s standard $179 price tag.
We’ve called the Elite Series 2 our top pick of PC controllers for discerning gamers, thanks to its luxurious build, responsive controls, and a wealth of customization options. Whether you’re waiting for a more affordable version of the console or want to pick one up in a stylish new color, there’s never been a better time to bring one home to your battle station.