Recommended Free Tools
The Xbox Elite Series 2 adds adjustable thumbstick tension, shorter trigger locks, Bluetooth, a built-in rechargeable battery and more onboard profile storage than the original Elite. Xbox rates its battery for up to 40 hours per charge, but the official sources cited here do not provide a comparable Series 1 runtime figure.
At a glance
| Feature | Original Elite (Series 1) | Elite Series 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Launch | Launched in 2015, according to Xbox’s Series 2 announcement. | Announced in 2019 in the same Xbox Wire announcement. |
| Thumbstick tension | An adjustment feature was not established by the official sources cited here. | Adjustable using the included thumbstick adjustment tool. |
| Trigger locks | Series 1-specific details were not established by the official sources cited here. | Shorter hair-trigger locks; Xbox says the controller recognizes trigger-lock adjustments. |
| Grip | A directly comparable description was not established by the official sources cited here. | Wrap-around rubberized grip. |
| Battery and charging | No directly comparable runtime figure was established by the official sources cited here. | Built-in rechargeable battery rated by Xbox for up to 40 hours per charge. The full package includes a charging dock and braided USB-C cable. |
| Connections | The official sources cited here do not establish all Series 1 connection modes. | Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth or USB-C cable. |
| On-controller profiles | A Series 1 profile count was not confirmed by the official sources cited here. | Up to three custom profiles plus a default profile, switchable with the Profile button. |
| Cross-generation part compatibility | Not established by the official sources cited here; check that replacement parts are specified for your controller’s generation. | |
What Series 2 adds
More control over stick feel and trigger travel
Series 2 lets you adjust thumbstick tension with the included tool, so you can choose a lighter or firmer feel. Its shorter hair-trigger locks reduce trigger travel for players who prefer a quicker press. Xbox says the controller recognizes trigger-lock adjustments. The cited official material does not establish a matching Series 1 feature specification, so this comparison does not assume what the older controller can or cannot do.
A different grip and connection options
Xbox describes the Series 2 grip as rubberized and extending around the controller. It also supports Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth and a USB-C connection. Bluetooth may be useful with supported PCs and other devices, but check the platform’s requirements and the game or app you intend to use.
Rechargeable power and included charging accessories
Xbox’s 2019 announcement says Series 2 has a built-in rechargeable battery rated for up to 40 hours per charge. That is the manufacturer’s stated maximum, not an independent test result. Because the official sources cited here do not give a comparable Series 1 runtime, this figure does not establish how much longer one controller lasts than the other.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
#1 Best Overall
- XBOX ELITE WIRELESS CONTROLLER SERIES 2: Play like a pro with adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grip, and shorter hair trigger locks..Audio : 3.5mm stereo headset jack. Also compatible with the Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter and all other Xbox controller accessories made by Microsoft.
- CORE ESSENTIALS: Includes just the components you need to unleash your best game. Additional components sold separately for even more customization with the Complete Component Pack.
- LIMITLESS CUSTOMIZATION: Exclusive button mapping options in the Xbox Accessories app—even pick which color the Xbox button lights up with.*
- CUSTOM PROFILES: Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly.*
- EXTENDED GAMEPLAY: Stay in the game with up to 40 hours of battery life and refined components that are built to last.*
The full Series 2 package includes a charging dock and braided USB-C cable, according to the Microsoft Store listing. Confirm the contents of the exact listing or bundle you are considering; package details can vary.
More profiles stored on the controller
Series 2 can store up to three custom profiles as well as a default profile. Use the Profile button to switch among the stored configurations, as described on the Xbox product page.
Rank #2
- XBOX ELITE WIRELESS CONTROLLER SERIES 2: Play like a pro with adjustable-tension thumbsticks, wrap-around rubberized grip, and shorter hair trigger locks.
- CORE ESSENTIALS: Includes just the components you need to unleash your best game. Additional components sold separately for even more customization with the Complete Component Pack.
- LIMITLESS CUSTOMIZATION: Exclusive button mapping options in the Xbox Accessories app—even pick which color the Xbox button lights up with.*
- CUSTOM PROFILES: Save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and switch between them on the fly.*
- EXTENDED GAMEPLAY: Stay in the game with up to 40 hours of battery life and refined components that are built to last.*
Interchangeable controls in the full package
Xbox lists interchangeable thumbsticks, paddles and D-pads, along with a thumbstick adjustment tool, case, charging dock and cable, for the full Series 2 package. Check the exact bundle before buying rather than assuming every listing includes the same pieces. The official sources cited here do not establish whether Series 1 and Series 2 control parts fit across generations.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Which controller should you choose?
Choose Series 2 if its added adjustments suit you
Series 2 is the more straightforward choice if adjustable stick tension, shorter trigger locks, Bluetooth, rechargeable power with a dock, or multiple onboard custom profiles matter to you. Those are specific additions and features documented by Xbox; whether they are worth the difference depends on your preferences and the price and condition of the item available to you.
Rank #3
- 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
Consider Series 1 only after checking the actual listing
If you are considering an original Elite, assess the particular used or remaining-stock controller rather than relying on assumptions about its condition or included accessories. Check its condition, the parts included and the seller’s return terms. Current Series 1 availability and pricing are not established here.
Verify the generation before buying replacement parts
Do not assume thumbsticks, paddles or D-pads interchange between generations. Look for a replacement explicitly identified for your exact controller model, and confirm fit with the seller or manufacturer before ordering.
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.
