Closer Examination

What a contrast from the Xbox Elite Series 2, which is far more subtle, in line with the standard black Xbox controllers, though with a lot more going on there in both build quality and gunmetal gray accents. I had mentioned in that review how color customization is often a feature that sells controllers alone, and SCUF plays to its strengths there. Xbox quickly picked up on this and introduced multiple colorways with the Xbox One controller revision 1, and even more with revision 2 where Xbox Design Lab made a debut and is still going strong. This allows you to further customize your controller to your specific tastes, and by default, the latest Xbox wireless controller comes in five color options—Carbon Black, Robot White, Shock Blue, Pulse Red, and Electric Volt. Potentially confusing names aside, I have the Shock Blue version characterized by a blue face plate and white back.

This is clearly the Xbox controller layout, which I dare say more PC users love than dislike. You still have the dual thumbsticks placed at a diagonal angle, a directional pad (D-pad), four face buttons, as well as the Xbox button, view button, and menu button. Then things change compared to the previous-generation Xbox One controllers (revisions or otherwise) with a dedicated share button as well as a faceted D-pad that seems like a hybrid of the older design and the even-more-faceted D-pad on the Xbox Elite Series 2. The actual size of the controller is also slightly smaller from before, which means those with small to medium-sized hands will be able to grip around the sides better, or even more in some cases. Adding to this is the gripped rubberized back that is again a massive improvement for the usability of the controller. This is especially relevant in a tense gaming session where sweaty palms won't just slide off a smooth plastic surface. I highly appreciate the updates thus far, which are taken from positive user feedback for the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller and really make it seem overpriced now.


The side view shows more of the rounded profile, as well as the various connectivity options on the front and back, including the 3.5 mm jack and Type-C port. The bumpers, also referred to as shoulder buttons, and triggers have a textured finish to the black plastic. The Xbox logo flaunts itself to others watching you use the controller, reminding them that you have the proper first-party controller, too.


The back is where we see fewer changes from the previous generation, and this is where the Elite Series 2 really shines with its integrated battery as well as cool charging pad that works really well with the case and cable. This controller does not have any of that, instead relying on a plastic battery compartment cover which opens up to reveal where the two provided AA batteries go. These are non-rechargeable batteries and plenty fine to get going, but you may want to purchase aftermarket rechargeable NiMH batteries to use with your own USB Type-C cable for wired connectivity in addition to charging the batteries at the same time.


Seen above is just how different the Xbox wireless controller (Series X|S) is compared to the Xbox Elite Series 2—a last-gen controller now—as well as my now-ancient Xbox 360 wired controller. I do not have a stock Xbox One controller, but the SCUF Prestige seen above is the same at heart, and a lot more is in common now, including the button layout at the front. We now also better see how the newer controllers have taken some of the best features from the Xbox Elite Series 2 while also having color customization, and the new controller will of course cost far less, too.