Esports is an ever-evolving world, and for serious gamers, the proper gear can mean the difference between success and failure. All of that has changed with the Elite series of Xbox controllers, the gold standard for years. After Xbox Elite Controller Series 1’s unreservedly massive success, showered in some of the finest praise and plaudits even its successor, the Xbox Elite Controller S2, can’t match, the people are now collectively asking one electrifying question: When is Xbox Elite Controller S3 landing?
Gamers are always on the lookout for news, sifting through forums like Reddit for even the slightest whisper of a new model. We are excited for a third generation of this high-end Xbox controller. With the Xbox Series X|S systems well and truly here, there’s a pack of players now that’s looking for that next top-level piece of hardware to allow them to let loose their state of play.
This extensive article will delve as deeply as possible into everything we know and can glean, both logically and from previous iterations, about the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3. Here, we delve into a potential release date, what specs it may have, how much it could cost, and all the latest rumours. Also, we will compare it with its predecessors and competition, delve into the current Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 Core, and answer every one of your pressing questions regarding the best Xbox Pro controller out there!
The Big Question: Are We Getting an Xbox Elite Controller Series 3?
Before we start talking wishlists and guesswork, let’s get the big one out of the way: Microsoft has not yet confirmed the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 at this time. There’s been no press briefings, no product announcements, and no official launch date.
That’s not to say one isn’t in the works just because there’s been no official word. The thread for an Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 reddit discussion shares this demand. Gamers are optimistic, and industry trends would seem to indicate a sequel is not a matter of if, but when. The Elite Series 2 came out in 2019, and for a tech accessory’s lifespan, that sounds like a pretty reasonable time for a refresh.
The Possible Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 Drop Date
Gamers love to guess when a new Xbox Elite controller will arrive, so we’re wondering about an Xbox Elite controller series 3 release date. If Microsoft sticks to previous patterns, a new premium accessory could be announced at a big gaming event, such as E3 (or whatever E3 will become) or The Game Awards. It’s a holiday 2024 or early 2025 launch, which would make a five-year gap since the Series 2, enough to allow the engineers more breathing room to do something novel.
Until we hear from Microsoft, any date is pure conjecture. We suggest keeping an eye on the official Xbox news channels for the most accurate news.
Legacy of Excellence: The History of the Elite Controller
To determine just what the Elite Series 3 might entail, we have to understand the groundwork laid with its predecessors. The Elite series didn’t just happen; it was the direct result of demand for a more customizable, premium gaming experience.
The OG Game-Changer: Xbox Elite Controller Series 1
The first one, the original Xbox Elite Controller, which came out in 2015, was a revelation. It introduced the central pantheon of ideas that would shape an entire generation of controllers under the “pro controller” moniker. It’s the first, first-party controller that gave you:
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Swappable Components: Players could swap out the D-pad (from a standard cross for an individual faceted disc) and thumbsticks (different heights and shapes).
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Back paddles – map to any button. Paddles are made with high-grade reinforced polycarbonate. Paddles can be configured on the face of the controller. Both short & long paddles are included. Jump & Reload without having to use the thumbsticks! That was a huge edge in twitchy shooters.
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Hair Trigger Locks -Physical switches that would limit the trigger pull distance, allowing for rapid fire in-game.
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High Quality Build: It was all soft-touch finished, stainless steel parts, and a nice weight that made it feel like it had some beef to it over the regular controller.
The Xbox Elite Series 1 (or Xbox One Controller Elite for short) set a new precedent, showing there was a demand for an upmarket, bespoke Xbox controller.
Best Xbox Elite Controller Series 2
In 2019, Microsoft released the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2. This wasn’t a kind of incremental update: it was a root-and-branch rethink which fixed many of the criticisms of the original model, and added a whole bunch of new features. Many still regard the Xbox Elite Series 2 as one of the best controllers ever made.
(For those worried that it has the same fault with stick drift, I’ll say that the sticks feel a bit more solid on this version than the series 1.) Key improvements over the Elite Series 2 controller:
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Interchangeable Tension Thumbsticks: Swap between aggressive or more relaxed thumbstick tension using the included tool that allows you to adjust the tension of the thumbsticks, to make them looser or tighter to your thumb preference.
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Internal Rechargeable Battery: The Elite Series 2 ditched AA batteries for an internal battery with up to 40 hours of battery life, with a premium charging dock that can even charge the controller when it’s inside its case.
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Three-Position Trigger Locks: Trigger locks have also been improved to allow for three adjustment positions, providing players with even more customisation options.
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Redesigned Wrap-Around Rubber Grips: Grips have been redesigned for improved feel, shape, and sensitivity, to provide optimal grip during gameplay, including a better ergonomic fit and comfort of the grip, and share the look more aesthetically and extend the life of the grip.
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Bluetooth Connectivity: Open up the Xbox Elite Controller 2 world to PC play, remote play, and much more.
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Onboard Profiles: Use one of four profile slots to save your players’ unique settings, and get feedback profiles and shortcuts to the photo buttons.
First, the Xbox Elite 2, the current flagship, is a sturdy and feature-packed piece of tech that would set the bar for whatever the next Elite controller comes out.
The Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 Core: What is it?
Microsoft Launches Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 Core. To democratise the pro experience, Microsoft revealed the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 Core. This brings me to a frequently asked question: “Why is the White Elite 2 controller cheaper?”
The Elite Series 2 Core is, for all intents and purposes, the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller in a white (and occasionally red or blue) palette. It only differs in price and what it comes with. The Core model includes only the controller and the thumbstick-adjustment tool.
The paddles, additional thumbsticks, different D-pad, and charging dock/case are all available as part of a “Complete Component Pack” purchase. This piecemeal approach allows players to hook into the ecosystem at a lower price point and spend extra on components as needed.
What is the Difference Between the Xbox Elite Series 2 and the Core?
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Full Elite Series 2: Includes controller, all 4 paddles, all 4 sticks, a second D-pad, charge dock, USB-C cable, and case.
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Elite Series 2 Core: This is just the controller with the thumbstick-adjustment tool. All other parts sold separately.
Take away the paddles, and for players who ‘just’ want the premium build and adjustable-tension sticks, the Elite Core makes for an excellent, cheaper alternative.
The Wishlist: Our Hopes for an Xbox Elite Controller Series 3
The Series 2 is great, but technology doesn’t wait. An Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 could build off that and solve the couple of remaining issues. I will do an Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 review in the future, and those key points are important in a review of one of these.
Well, while this is a wishlist, here’s some stuff I’d like to see in the Xbox Elite Controller 3:
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Hall effect thumbstick: It’s the feature most requested by a mile. A problem endemic to almost all modern controllers (including the Elite Series 2) is “stick drift,” where the internal sensors wear down and begin to register phantom inputs. Hall Effect joysticks are all magnets and electric conductors (obviously avoiding physical wear and friction) and should, in theory, be immune to stick drift and last for a very long time.
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Enhanced Durability and Build: The Elite Series 2 is a beast, but there have been some reported cases of bumpers breaking or rubbery grips flaking off after a bit of use. The Elite Series 3 could potentially have even stronger materials or a better adhesive application, so it stands the test of time after years of intense game-playing sessions.
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Mechanical “Clicky” Buttons: Many expensive third-party controllers (such as some Razer models) use microswitch-based face buttons to give a tactile, “mouse-click” experience. This results in quicker actuation and satisfying feedback that a lot of competitive players appreciate. The same applied to the ABXY buttons would be a huge improvement.
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Advanced Haptics: Sony’s PlayStation 5 controller, the DualSense, brought a level of nuance to haptic feedback and its adaptive triggers that the world had never seen. Xbox has decent rumble, but a Series 3 could feature more sophisticated haptics that immerse players even deeper in the action by replicating the texture of a surface, say, or the tension on a bowstring.
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Increased Customization: Personalization is what can sell the Xbox Elite controller. A Series 3 could achieve this and more. Think swappable faceplates for different colors and designs, or the ability to easily swap the entire thumbstick module if it ever fails.
What Will The Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 Price Be?
A premium controller has a premium price. The Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 was released with an MSRP of USD 179.99. With inflation, R&D costs, and the potential addition of more high-end tech such as Hall Effect sticks and even better haptics, you can assume a $179.99 to $ 199.99 release price for the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3, if not even slightly higher. That would put it up against other pro-tier controllers such as Sony’s DualSense Edge.
The Competition: Where Does the Elite Fit In?
The Xbox Elite doesn’t exist in a vacuum. The Pro Controller market is full of excellent options. It’s important to know how the Elite stacks up.
Scuf vs Xbox Elite 2: Which is better?
This is a classic debate. Scuf is a third-party manufacturer that customizes regular controllers with pro features.
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Scuf Controllers: Have the best amount of aesthetic modification. You can select colors, designs, finishes, trigger types, and more. They’re quick to innovate, and many of their features are later adopted by first-party controllers. But they’re usually more costly than the Elite, and if something goes wrong with your controller, warranty/repair work is handled through Scuf and not Microsoft.
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Xbox Elite Series 2: Uses the Xbox accessories app to integrate with the Xbox ecosystem. It is a true first-party product, which means perfect compatibility and support. It has (very) restricted cosmetic customisation, but great functional customisation (stiffened sticks, onboard profiles) and at a relatively more uniform price.
Scuf, the highly customized, upscale boutique option, and the Elite, the integrated, dependable workhorse, are frequently the two extremes from which to choose. As for longevity, both have been known to have problems. The long answer to “Do SCUF controllers last longer? Doesn’t have no clear-cut answer, as it can vary greatly based on which model and usage.
What Xbox Controller do the Pros Use?
This varies widely. The Xbox Elite Series 2 is used by many top players as a result of its dependability, low latency (when wired), and first-party support at competitions. But many others have sponsorships or personal preferences for Scuf, Razer (like the Wolverine series), or Victrix controllers. There’s no such thing as an absolute “best” controller; professional players generally use whatever feels best and gives them the most confidence. The best Xbox Pro controller is ultimately a choice that is yours and yours alone.
Is an Elite Controller Worth It?
This is the million-dollar question for any gamer contemplating a high-end peripheral.
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For Competitive Players: Hell yes. If you’re a Call of Duty, Halo, Apex Legends, or Fortnite player, the ability to jump, slide, or build with paddles without taking your thumbs off the aiming stick is a serious competitive advantage. The Hair triggers and remapping make the Elite a force to be reckoned with!
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For a More Premium Experience: You don’t always have to be a hyper-competitive gamer to enjoy the Xbox Elite. The smooth, premium feel and the easy-to-grip profile, not to mention the customizations for the game, get you that added advantage, no matter what game you play.
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Should You Get the Xbox Elite Core? Yes, particularly if you’re short on cash or you’re not sure if you’ll use all those extra components. On Paper, it gives you the same high-gloss build quality and adjustable-tension sticks for a more reasonable price. You can always purchase the paddles and other ingredients later.
Yes, for most gaming, a regular Xbox controller is perfect, but the Elite controller is a niche device for gamers willing to push the bar to the next level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The following is a straightforward response to the most popular questions about the line of Xbox Elite Controller line.
Is there such a thing as an Xbox Elite Series 3 controller?
When was Elite Series 3 released?
Which is better, the Scuf or the Xbox Elite 2?
Is the Xbox Elite Core a good value for money?
Is the Xbox Elite controller better?
What is the distinction between the Xbox Elite Series 2 and Core?
What controller do pros use for Xbox?
Why is the White Elite 2 controller cheaper?
Do scufs last longer than regular controllers?
Conclusion: The Future is in Future is in Our Hands
All the hype around the rumored Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 reinforces one thing: Microsoft’s most dedicated Xbox fans demand a dedication to premium quality, high-performance hardware. Until then, there’s always the current Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, as well as its affordable Core sibling, to reign supreme in the controller world. They provide a real advantage for tryhards and a decadent, elevated experience for everyone else.
Microsoft has shown with the first two versions that they know what hardcore gamers like. If they figure out how to make an Elite Series 3 with modern features like clicky Hall Effect thumbsticks and better durability, they won’t just have a niche luxury accessory on their hands; they’ll have the king of controllers. For now, the fate of the elite controller remains unchanged, but the future, whenever it comes, looks very bright.
