Microsoft has launched the Xbox One Elite Controller, which is inarguably the best controller designed by the company. The device is not just a visual upgrade to the standard Xbox One controller. It is a fully redesigned controller that offers extreme customization and precision while gaming.
However, the greatness comes with a heavy price. The Xbox One Elite Controller costs about 2 times the standard Xbox One controller. In simple words, Microsoft has succeeded in designing the perfect Xbox One controller. It is expensive, but it is meant for highly competitive gamers only. Microsoft is aware of the fact that a casual gamer would never shell so much money just for a game controller.
At first glance, you would not be able to figure out the reason for such a heavy price. When casually observed, the Elite Controller looks like a mere slightly premium standard Xbox controller. The highly noticeable changes are the addition of a 3.55mm audio jack in the front and the inclusion of a new slider control close to the menu button.
The accessories provided along with the controller are what make it truly different. Everything comes in a nice looking case that protects the controller from damage when it’s not in use. On unboxing, you will find the elite controller, attachable thumbsticks, meter levers, a wrapped up USB cable, batteries and space for spare earbuds.
A spare directional pad along with other customization tools are held inside a moulded space. This makes its pretty convenient to keep everything together and safe, even when traveling. The Xbox One Elite Controller is quite heavier than the standard Xbox controller but the difference is not noticeable while gaming.
The thumbsticks boast metal construction and are as accurate and comfortable as expected. Also, 3 different customization options are available when it comes to thumbsticks. The 3 thumbsticks are called standard, convex pairs and tall. All 3 are comfortable enough for almost every game on the Xbox One.
One can try different combinations for different games. There is no ideal configuration for a game, it is just a matter of your own personal comfort. Some gamers might use a combo of tall and standard thumbsticks while playing Gears of War whereas some might find the configuration including a convex thumbstick and one tall thumbstick appropriate.
The whole point of such customization is to provide maximum comfort to every individual by catering to the person’s personal preferences. Due to the swift movement of metal shafts supporting the thumbsticks, all three options work super smooth.
The metal pieces that act as secondary inputs for various controls can also be adjusted according to one’s preference. There are two angled pieces and two straight ones. You can interchange their position to achieve maximum precision and comfort. It is entirely up to you whether you want to use the metal pieces or not.
The elite controller features a clean and soft rubber finish for most of its body, but the area where your palms will rest is provided with an even better diamond pattern finish. You can also customize button outputs via the app.
The Xbox One Elite Controller most definitively overcomes all the shortcomings of the standard controller. Also, the elite pad provides a bunch of customization options that further improve the total gaming experience. The case where the controller and accessories rest is close to perfect. Honestly, the Xbox One Elite Controller price is its only con!
Price: AED 699