Is the Xbox Core Controller or Elite Series 2 Better for You?

As Xbox Cloud Gaming becomes more relevant, players with PCs and Macs alike will be able to get in on the newest Xbox titles without needing an Xbox at all. By going to their website and signing in, Xbox All Access members can play games from their library and Xbox Game Pass games right on their computer from a web browser. However, players who want to get the most out of their games without investing in a high-tech keyboard and mouse setup may still want to invest in a controller for their gaming endeavors.

Modern-day Xbox controllers come in two flavors: the Xbox Core Controller and the Elite Series 2 Controller. These controllers have made numerous quality of life improvements over their predecessors, including better d-pads, texturized grips, share button implementation and more, making them the most appropriate options for gaming now and into the future. However, the two controllers differ vastly in price. The Elite controller is about 100 dollars more than the core controller, so it is important to know which peripheral is worth investing money in.

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The Core Controller has everything players need to feel in control while gaming. The controller feels great in hand, and all the buttons are very responsive. The d-pad is also one of the best in the gaming world, despite not having the customization options of the Elite Series 2. Unlike its competition, it does run on AA batteries; this does have the added benefit of not having to replace your controller should it stop holding a charge, but investing in rechargeable batteries may be worthwhile.

That said, the controller comes in nearly endless different colorways, making sure there is a stand-out controller for every player. Black is the most common color, but players can order the controller in any color with the Xbox Design Lab. There are also various special edition controllers, like the Aqua Shift Xbox controller with rubber grips and a shiny blue finish. Furthermore, limited-edition collaboration controllers will be available, such as the Forza Motorsport 5 themed Xbox controller coming later this year. Prices range from a modest $49.99 (on sale) to $69.99 for special/limited edition controllers like the Aqua Shift and the Forza Horizon 5 model.

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The Elite Series 2 comes with multiple extra bits and bobs that allow players to customize every aspect of their gaming experience. Similar to Series 1, the Series 2 comes with interchangeable joysticks, d-pads and tools to enable gamers to tweak the controller with a unique level of precision. The Elite 2 also stands out thanks to its read paddles. Like the rest of the controller, players can map these paddles to whatever input a play desires, so no more reaching for the B button to melee while simultaneously trying to turn a corner.

The Elite Series 2 is also rechargeable and includes a special dock for the controller; the case actually includes a passthrough for a USB cable so you can slot the dock into its case and charge it in there. Assuming that its owner needs to sleep, the battery should never die with a battery life of 40 hours, so plugging it in overnight should give it the juice it needs to stay active all day. However, these upgrades come with a price. The standard Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 retails for $180, while the more coveted limited edition Halo Infinite variant costs $200.

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The decision here comes down to the gamer. Gamers who need an entry-level controller and want to play games in their downtime will find the core controller very serviceable. The Xbox controller is one of the best controllers on the market and has much more versatility than the Playstation Dualsense or the Nintendo Joycons. It also has numerous customization options, so players can express themselves through their controller of choice without the need to empty their wallets.

On the other hand, hardcore gamers who accept nothing but the best will find the Elite controller to satisfy their every whim. With interchangeable parts, rear paddles and exorbitant battery life, the Elite controller will find itself in the hands of gamers who strive to be the master of their craft and desire premium gear to accomplish their goals. However, with a price more than double that of the core controller, it is intended for the most dedicated gamers.

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