Microsoft has announced a new, more affordable version of its pro-level controller. The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 – Core (that’s a mouthful) comes in white, and is now available to preorder. It costs $129.99 and will be released September 21. See it at Amazon.
Preorder Xbox Elite Series 2 Core Controller
Also at Microsoft Store
Functionally, the Core controller is almost identical to the standard Elite Series 2 controller (which is currently on sale for $154.99 at Amazon). The only difference, besides the color, is that it comes with less stuff. The standard Elite Series 2 controller comes with a carrying case, charging doc, four rear paddle buttons, additional thumbsticks, and an additional D-pad. The Core version does not.
If you buy the Core version and decide that you want all that extra stuff, you can buy it in a bundle for $59.99. Add it up, and that would actually cost you $10 more than buying the standard Elite Series 2 at MSRP. So, it’s your call which one you want to get.
So what features does the Core version have? It has a rubberized grip for better stability. It has shorter hair trigger locks you can turn on to get shots off quicker in shooters. You can adjust the tension in the thumbsticks using a tool that comes with the controller.
The main things the Core controller lacks are the rear paddles and the swappable components.
If color customization is your thing, you might want to hold off on buying this. Microsoft also announced that the Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 will be added to the Xbox Design Lab starting this holiday.
Chris Reed is a deals expert and commerce editor for IGN. You can follow him on Twitter @_chrislreed.
Source: IGN.com Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core Is Up for Preorder