The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 won one reviewer over after trying controllers from Sony, Xbox, GameSir, and 8BitDo. Its appeal came down to fit, rechargeable power, customization, and a way to connect to a PC through Xbox Wireless. That makes it a compelling personal pick—not an objectively proven “best controller of the generation.” And “Microsoft forgot about it” is a rhetorical reaction to how little the reviewer felt Microsoft talked about it, not an established fact about Microsoft’s marketing.
Why the Elite Series 2 stood out to the reviewer
In a first-person review credited to MakeUseOf author Suman Biswas, the Elite Series 2 became the writer’s preferred PC controller after trying DualShock, Xbox, GameSir, and 8BitDo models. The reasons were practical: ergonomics that suited the reviewer, a built-in rechargeable battery, customizable controls, and the option to use Xbox Wireless on PC. Those preferences reflect one person’s experience; the source does not report a controlled comparison of the controllers.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
The headline’s claim that Microsoft “completely forgot about” the controller should be read the same way: as the reviewer’s expression of surprise at what they perceived as limited promotion, not as a measured finding about Microsoft’s activity.
Check which Elite Series 2 package you are buying
The full Elite Series 2 package described in the review includes a carrying case, charging dock, swappable thumbsticks and D-pad, back paddles, and a braided USB-C cable. A secondary comparison says the full kit comes with multiple stick, paddle, and D-pad options, while the Elite Series 2 Core has a reduced accessory bundle.
#1 Best Overall
- PLAY LIKE A PRO — The XBOX Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core delivers pro-level precision, durability, and control with adjustable-tension thumbsticks, shorter hair trigger locks, and a wrap-around rubberized grip.
- DESIGNED WITH XBOX DESIGN LAB — This XBOX Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core in Robot White was designed with XBOX Design Lab, the only official platform for custom XBOX controllers. Featuring a distinctive color combination across the top case, bumpers, triggers, and ABXY buttons.
- ADJUSTABLE-TENSION THUMBSTICKS — Fine-tune your aim with thumbsticks that let you adjust resistance for improved accuracy, consistency, and control in every match.
- SHORTER HAIR TRIGGER LOCKS — Fire faster and react quicker with three-step hair trigger locks that reduce pull distance for rapid input in competitive gameplay.
- CORE ESSENTIALS — Includes just the components you need to unleash your best game. Add even more customization with the Complete Component Pack, sold separately, for extra paddles, thumbsticks, a D-pad, carrying case, and charging dock.
Because the configurations differ, compare the exact listing contents before buying. If you want the case, dock, paddles, or broader choice of components, weigh the full kit against the Core plus any accessories you would need to buy separately. Current prices and sale availability were not verified.
Does the Elite Series 2 work on PC?
The review reports that the controller can connect over Bluetooth or Xbox Wireless and work with Windows 10 and Windows 11. The secondary comparison also describes USB-C connectivity. The reviewer preferred an Xbox Wireless Adapter on their PC, but that is their setup preference, not a requirement established for every PC.
These connection details come from the review and its secondary comparison; current official Microsoft specifications were not independently verified. Check the current product and accessory information for your specific Windows setup before purchasing.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Battery life: separate the reviewer’s experience from the advertised figure
After a year of regular use, the reviewer reported getting about 35–36 hours per charge from their controller. That is an individual report, not a controlled test or a promise of how long another unit will last. The secondary comparison attributes an “up to 40 hours” figure to Microsoft, but that claim was not independently checked against a current official product page. Neither number should be treated as a verified side-by-side result.
Rank #3
- Elite Performance: Experience professional-level gaming with adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grip, and shorter hair trigger locks for enhanced control and precision
- Includes Core Controller and USB to C-USB Charging Cable.
- This listing does not include: Carrying Case, Charging Dock, Paddles, Additional Thumbsticks, or Dpad.
- Custom Controls: Map buttons to your preference, create and store up to 3 custom profiles, and switch between them seamlessly during gameplay
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Seamlessly connect and play on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Windows PC with USB-C connectivity and Bluetooth wireless technology
Elite Series 2 vs. DualSense Edge
The reviewer also bought a DualSense Edge and found it heavier and shorter-lived between charges than the standard DualSense. They report that its right stick began drifting within a year and that they struggled to find a replacement module locally, eventually importing one. These are personal experiences, not evidence of general defect rates or a worldwide shortage. The reviewer still considers the Edge a strong choice for someone gaming exclusively on PS5.
For a real buying decision, compare the options that matter to your setup rather than treating one reviewer’s experience as a universal verdict:
Rank #4
- Play like a pro with the Xbox elite wireless controller series 2
- Experience limitless customization and exclusive configuration options with the Xbox Accessories app
- Stay in the game for longer with upto 40 hours of rechargeable battery life. Use Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, or the included USB C cable to play across your Xbox One and Windows 10 devices
- Compatible with Xbox Series X, Xbox One, Windows 10
- Package and total cost: Check the precise contents of the full Elite Series 2 and Core bundles, then include any accessories you would buy separately.
- Platform and connection: Consider whether you need a controller for Windows, PS5, or both, and which connection methods your setup supports.
- Controls and customization: Weigh the paddles, interchangeable components, and profile switching you will actually use.
- Power and charging: Compare your charging preferences and treat individual battery reports separately from official claims.
- Fit and weight: Comfort is personal; the review’s preference is not a substitute for trying a controller if you can.
- Stick repair: Check what replacement options are available for the exact controller and region before relying on a repair path.
Customization and stick replacement are different questions
The reviewer says the Xbox Accessories app supports customization and profile switching. That is part of the controller’s appeal for someone who wants to adjust controls rather than use a fixed layout.
The same review describes the Elite Series 2 as using conventional potentiometer sticks and mentions replacing them with aftermarket Hall-effect or TMR sticks as a DIY modification. It does not verify a particular part, its compatibility, repair safety, warranty effect, or Microsoft support. Treat this as a reported modification—not a confirmed repair recommendation—and verify those details before opening or changing a controller.
Best Value
- PLAY LIKE A PRO — The XBOX Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 features over 30 ways to play like a pro. Designed in collaboration with pro-level players, it puts exceptional performance, customization, and durability where it matters most.
- ADJUSTABLE-TENSION THUMBSTICKS — Fine-tune your aim with thumbsticks that let you adjust resistance for improved accuracy, consistency, and control in every match.
- SHORTER HAIR TRIGGER LOCKS — Fire faster and react quicker with three-step hair trigger locks that reduce pull distance for rapid input in competitive gameplay.
- INTERCHANGEABLE COMPONENTS — Swap thumbstick toppers, D-pads, and paddles to tailor your controller to your preferred gaming style. Includes 6 thumbsticks, 4 paddles, 2 D-pads, carrying case, and charging dock.
- SAVE AND SWITCH PROFILES — Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly with the dedicated Profile button. Even pick which color the XBOX button lights up as.
Who should consider it?
The Elite Series 2 is most relevant to a PC player who values the reviewer’s combination of ergonomics, rechargeable power, customization, and Xbox Wireless connectivity, and who has checked that the desired accessories are in the package they plan to buy. The Core may make sense if its reduced bundle suits your needs; compare its total cost with the full kit before deciding.
For a PS5-only player, the reviewer still sees the DualSense Edge as a strong option. Their reported weight, battery, and stick experiences can help identify questions to investigate, but do not establish how another unit will perform.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
