The key features listed for the Elite 2 are:

• Unmatched performance
  The Elite Series 2 builds upon learnings from the original Elite Controller and provides a cutting-edge gaming controller experience unlike anything else on the market today. A brand-new feature that comes with the Elite Series 2 is adjustable-tension thumbsticks. You can choose between three different resistance settings, including options to match the same thumbstick resistance as Xbox 360 or standard Xbox One controllers. The new controller also comes with an additional, shorter hair trigger lock setting where the trigger pull distance is shorter than ever, helping you fire faster. The controller now automatically recognizes adjustments to the hair trigger locks, so you won’t need to make changes in the Xbox Accessories app each time you change the trigger locks. Additionally, new wrap-around rubberized grips extend to the top of the controller for more control and comfort.

• More ways to customize
  The Elite Series 2 comes with new interchangeable thumbsticks and paddle shapes, so you can better tailor the controller to your gaming preferences. You can now save up to 3 custom profiles on the controller and instantly switch between them and a default profile with the dedicated Profile button. New LED lights on the top of the controller indicate which profile is selected. The updated Xbox Accessories app* provides the Elite Series 2 with limitless customization for remapping buttons, triggers, bumpers, and paddles – this includes new features like remapping voice commands (‘record that’, ‘take a screenshot’ etc.) to buttons. You also get more choice in how you connect your Elite Series 2 to your devices, including Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth, and USB-C.

• Designed for extended gameplay and durability
  For the first time ever, we’ve included a built-in rechargeable battery with up to 40 hours of battery life per charge. Our long-life battery is designed to operate at its full capacity for years of use. The controller comes with a USB-C cable and charging dock, giving you multiple options for charging your controller. The Elite Series 2 is built to last with re-engineered components including the bumpers, thumbsticks, and grip material for improved resilience. We developed new firmware to automatically calibrate thumbsticks for improved dead zone control. There’s also a premium carrying case for added protection.

For someone like myself who never purchased an original Elite Controller, the second one looks very appealing. And I do think the extra dollars for features is worth the money on a strictly RRP VS RRP comparison. Maybe if you can find the first generation Elite Controller for a lot cheaper once the second one is out — that’d be a different story.

Are you planning to upgrade your Elite Controller? Or planning to invest in the Elite Controller 2? Let us know in the comments below.