pad_xbox_one_elite

Is the Xbox One Elite Controller worth the upgrade? Should you really spend £130 on an Xbox One controller? Ever since Microsoft unveiled the customisable Xbox One Elite Controller at E3 2015, there’s been quite the buzz around it. Going on sale alongside the long-awaited Halo 5: Guardians, the professional eSports-grade pad has proved exceedingly popular and is still seeing limited stock levels at most major retailers. But as you refresh that Amazon page for the millionth time, you might want to take some time to consider whether the Xbox One Elite is really worth the investment, even if it can now be had for less than its original £130 RRP. Xbox One Elite Controller vs Regular Controller – Price. The first stumbling block for the Xbox One Elite Controller is the price. If you want to buy a regular pad, you’re looking at an investment of around £45 or £50 with the Play and Charge Kit as well. Due to stock issues, we’re currently seeing the Xbox One Elite Controller retail for around £175, so make sure you wait for some fresh stock before hitting that Buy Now button. Xbox One Elite Controller vs Regular Controller – Design. The most obvious change with the Xbox One Elite Controller is its visual design. It’s still got the same genetic make-up as the original Wireless Controller, but it now features a matte black finish with metal detailing, as well as customisable paddle, analogue stick and D-pad options. The interchangeable items can be swapped out for the other options you’ll find in the box, and it’s all done via magnets. Sign up for the newsletter. Get news, competitions and special offers direct to your inbox. It’s worth noting that the Xbox One Elite Controller comes with a braided Micro USB cable too, which is an absolute necessity for tournaments. Xbox One Elite Controller vs Regular Controller – Triggers and Bumpers. Although we much prefer the force feedback triggers of the regular Xbox One pad to the PS4’s DualShock 4, the Elite Controller takes it all a step further. Xbox One Elite Controller vs Regular Controller – Analogue Sticks. As we’ve mentioned before, the Elite Controller improves the durability of the regular analogue sticks with a reinforced ring. But there’s much more to the Elite’s sticks than that. When you open the carry case for the Elite Controller, the pad is kitted out with similar analogue sticks to the regular controller – albeit reinforced with metal. They’re the standard concave version with a grip around the edge. But underneath the controller sit two additional options in the case. First up you’ve got the tall versions of the concave sticks, but you’ve also got a set of domed analogue sticks that fall in between the other two options in terms of height. The customisations go further than that when you get into the Xbox Accessories app, with the option to choose from various sensitivity curves ranging from Delay or Smooth to Aggressive or Instant. Having the option to really drill down into the sensitivity of your sticks and having the choice of swapping out for alternative options is definitely a boon over the regular pad. Xbox One Elite Controller vs Regular Controller – Buttons and Paddles. Aside from the swappable analogue sticks and D-pad, the big bonus of having the Xbox One Elite Controller is the fact that the Xbox Accessories app allows you to completely customise your button mapping. You can even add four extra buttons using the four paddles on the rear of the Elite Controller. These will automatically be assigned to the four face buttons, so you don’t need to move your thumb as much – thus decreasing reaction times. For us, the paddles initially became useful as an alternative to the L3 and R3 button presses, as it’s much faster to sprint away from enemies this way. The Elite Controller can store two button configurations at any one time. All you need to do is program them from the Xbox Accessories app and assign them to slot one or two. There are some presets for top games like Gears of War: Ultimate Edition, Halo 5: Guardians, Forza 6 or even Sunset Overdrive, but you can also take the time to make your own. This button mapping is something you do now have on the regular Xbox One Wireless controller via the app, though. You just won’t get the paddles. Xbox One Elite Controller vs Regular Controller – D-pad. With the Xbox Elite Controller you also have the option to choose the D-pad you’d like to use. Both are metal, for increased durability (and to keep your thumb cool). But one is the normal cross-shaped D-pad, while the other is faceted. The latter is our preferred one now – although it doesn’t function as much like the touchpad on the Steam Controller as we’d like – as it allows you to roll your thumb between options without having to reposition. It’s perfect for fighting games, as it allows quicker combos, and also it just looks more visually impressive. If you’re looking for the best controller money can buy, the Elite Controller is it – unless you like the look of the more garish SCUF Infinity 1. Microsoft has obviously honed its Wireless Controller design by adding vital tweaks and upgrades to make the Elite Controller, well… Elite. Start saving those pennies! Have you upgraded to the Xbox One Elite controller and, if so, what do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. Unlock your full-gaming potential with this pro-level controller that adapts to your unique style of play and gives you the competitive edge. Compatible with Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X consoles. To celebrate Forza Motorsport 7, SCUF has teamed up with Porsche and Turn 10 Studios to create this limited-edition controller. It's custom crafted with an exclusive silver finish, red and black racing stripes, black carbon fiber accents, and real Alcantara leather handles. Compatible with Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X consoles. Free shipping. Free returns. Description. Unlock your full-gaming potential with this pro-level controller that adapts to your unique style of play and gives you the competitive edge. Compatible with Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Xbox One X consoles. Select a Microsoft Store location. We’re expanding our pick-up-in-store service to more Microsoft Store locations every day. Note: In-store availability subject to change without notice. Sorry, the service was unavailable. Please try again later. Unfortunately, we found no Microsoft Store locations within 100 miles, but we can always ship items to you. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. Game-changing accuracy. Give your gaming a helpful boost with the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. It adapts to your hand size and play style, so you get better control across all gaming genres. The new, faceted D-pad enables easier and more reliable combo execution, while the traditional D-pad provides precise control to change weapons or call in a strike. This fit's personal. Swap between a variety of metal thumbsticks and D-pads for personalized control and ergonomics. Discover configurations that can improve accuracy, speed, and reach with thumbsticks of different shapes and sizes. Interchangeable paddles. Packing four slots for interchangeable paddles, it's easy to attach and remove paddles on the fly. Now you don’t have to take your thumbs off the thumbstick to execute intricate jump, aim, and shoot combos. Hair Trigger Locks. Fire faster and save precious time with the flip of the Hair Trigger Locks. Each trigger has one for independent control. And with the app,* you can fine-tune the trigger settings to fit your playing style. Infinite freedom and flexibility. Customize your experience even further with the easy-to-use app. Adjust trigger min/max values, thumbstick sensitivities, and button assignments, so the controls are exactly the way you want them. Designed to perform. Stainless steel thumbstick shafts, D-pads, and paddles are built to last. Low-friction, reinforced rings around each thumbstick minimize wear and provide buttery-smooth action. Be ready for anything. Each profile you create in the app is stored in the cloud, and two profiles can be saved on the controller too. So no matter where you play, your profiles are always with you. In the box. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller or SCUF Forza Elite Wireless Controller Carrying case (911 GT2 RS Carrying Case with SCUF Forza Elite) 4 paddles (+ 4 SCUF paddles with SCUF Forza Elite) 6 thumbsticks: standard (2), tall (2), and domed (2) (3 SCUF domed and 3 SCUF concave with SCUF Forza Elite) 2 D-pads: faceted and standard SCUF Forza Elite only: SCUF Paddle Hatch with Porsche Crest. Tech specs. For use with Xbox One systems and PCs running Windows 7 or later. PC use requires included USB cable or Wireless Adapter (available Holiday 2015). Drivers available at xbox.com/xboxone/PC-controller. Includes 3.5mm stereo headset jack. Also compatible with the Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter and all other 1st party Xbox One controller accessories. Features Impulse Triggers** and rumble motors. Motor control can be adjusted in the app. 348g (+/- 15g) when using with 4 paddles, faceted D-pad, AA batteries, and standard thumbsticks attached. Wireless or wired using included 9’ USB cable. Data transfers through the USB cable when connected to the controller and console/PC. 2 AA (included). Compatible with Xbox One Play & Charge Kit (sold separately). For use with Xbox One systems and PCs running Windows 7 or later. PC use requires included USB cable or Wireless Adapter (available Holiday 2015). Drivers available at xbox.com/xboxone/PC-controller. Includes 3.5mm stereo headset jack. Also compatible with the Xbox One Stereo Headset Adapter and all other 1st party Xbox One controller accessories. Features Impulse Triggers** and rumble motors. Motor control can be adjusted in the app. 348g (+/- 15g) when using with 4 paddles, faceted D-pad, AA batteries, and standard thumbsticks attached. Wireless or wired using included 9’ USB cable. Data transfers through the USB cable when connected to the controller and console/PC. 2 AA (included). Compatible with Xbox One Play & Charge Kit (sold separately). Ratings and reviews. To rate and review, sign in. Your review. Thanks. Your review will post soon. There was an error posting your review. Please try again later. All user reviews. Triple the cost & more features but workmanship worse. Xbox Elite controller owner since day one release. First controller failed just after 3 months. Left bumper plastic clip broke leaving the bumper free to swing like a door. Upper right paddle button stopped working. After a spending several hours on the phone with MS Support they finally swapped the controller even though it had past its 90 day warranty. That's right the same warranty they provide for a $20 headset is the same warranty for a $150 Wireless controller. (Unless you bought the console controller bundle then you get the full year.) The replacement controller failed after 4 months with right stick drifting issues and the left bumper clip breaking again. Purchased 3rd controller from local store with 2 yr extended warranty. This one is now being replaced due to right stick drifting issues, bumper failure and paddle buttons not clicking. I would like to write about what I like about the controller but MS only gives me 1000 characters, I'm out of room. GET THE EXTENDED WARRANTY. 29 out of 32 people found this helpful. the only bad thing is the grips fell apart and did not hold up. 9 out of 9 people found this helpful. Wears out fast. The RB button broke within 6 months, left thumbstick will act up and move your aim in shooting games when not touching it after about 6 months, the rubber handgrips are also falling off. If it had a year long warrenty it'd be way better. HUUUGE waste of money in the long run, SAD. 23 out of 27 people found this helpful. Busted bumper. Controller feels solidly made. Fit and finish seem acceptable. But, within 30 days the right bumper broke, as has been extensively documented in these reviews and those elsewhere. In my case, the failure was within the 90 day warranty period. As stated elsewhere, this warranty is criminally short for a product of this expense. Purchase at your own risk. 28 out of 36 people found this helpful. I have had my elete controler for less than 1 year. I love everything about the controller (when it is working!) I knew I had a problem when the controller wouldn't stay synced to my Xbox unless I had the micro usb cable plugged into it, essentially making it a wired controler. I have watched countless YouTube videos on how to fix the issue. New batteries, power cycled my Xbox, updated controler. You name it is tried it. Microsoft suggested I purchase a new controler. My original controler that came with my Xbox still works perfectly! I spent 150$ on this beast. I'd say worth every penny if it worked. I don't make a ton of money and I'm just disappointed that my elete controler didn't even last one year when the original I have had twice as long still works just fine. I'm more dissatisfied with the customer service I received from Microsoft. I buy Microsoft products because I feel they are the best, but Microsoft makes it hard to be a loyal customer with poor customer service. Great controler (when it works) buy at your own risk. Once you purchase this controler if it malfunctions your stuck with an expencive paper weight. 9 out of 10 people found this helpful. Works great till it breaks. I agree with a lot of the reviews here. This controller is great in every aspect of gaming. Everything feels fresh and tactile. The weight was also a big thing that made this controller great for me. Unfortunately like others I only got to use my controller for about 6 months until the Left Bumper just fell off. I take great care of things and would never do something like throw them. So when this happened I was extremely disappointed. If you're looking for a great 6 month controller, this is it. (Model 1698 if anyone was wondering). 4 out of 5 people found this helpful. DO NOT WATSE YOUR MONEY. I have gone through two of these controllers. On my first one, the thumb sticks broke and for the second one the back rubber gripping fell off and the same thumbstick issue. I really don't see how they value this controller at 150 dollars. When issues come up on the controller Microsoft policy on a premium controller is absolutely crap. If you want one buy it but pray that you will not have any issues. 12 out of 15 people found this helpful. waste of a 150 bucks.too bad i cannt rate the thing 0. Back grips is coming off.right bumper broke.Must games i have tried to use the hair trigger switch thing.Doesnt work to fire the guns in the game .I wouldnt tell anyone to buy a elite controller.They better off just mailing microsoft the cash and keep using a normal controller. 21 out of 29 people found this helpful. Piece of trash. Keep loosing the buttons beacause they are on there with magnetics so whenever you flick up or anything like that the button flys of the taller buttons are impossible to use and the peddles on the back are way to sensitive wish I could rate a 0 star. 21 out of 30 people found this helpful. Quality is just the same as original controller. It's just a regular controller with more weight and more mappable buttons. Bumper broke and 90 day warrenty conveniently ended before. sweet. 14 out of 19 people found this helpful. Translate to English. Язык Microsoft Store: United States - English. Вас интересует язык Microsoft Store: Россия - Русский? Перевести на русский. You are shopping Microsoft Store in: United States - English. Are you looking for Microsoft Store in: Россия - Русский? Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. The world’s most advanced controller. Get free shipping and hassle-free returns when you buy direct from Microsoft Store. $149.99** MSRP. Improved performance and fit. The Xbox Elite controller adapts to your hand size and play style with configurations that can improve accuracy, speed, and reach with thumbsticks of different shapes and sizes. Swap between a variety of metal thumbsticks and D-pads for personalized control and ergonomics. Interchangeable paddles. The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller has four slots for interchangeable paddles that you can attach or remove without any tools. The paddles give your fingers more control, so you don’t have to take your thumbs off the thumbstick to execute intricate jump, aim, and shoot combinations. With the app*, you can assign a wide range of inputs to each paddle. Hair trigger locks. With the flip of the Hair Trigger Locks, you can fire faster and save valuable time with each trigger pull. Hair Trigger Locks stop the trigger movement after the shot and get you ready for the next one. Simply flip the switch again to get back to full-range trigger motion, or use the app to further fine-tune your settings. Limitless customization in the app. Customize your experience even further with an easy-to-use app.* Adjust trigger min/max values, thumbstick sensitivities, button assignments, and more. Create as many controller profiles as you like in the app and instantly change between 2 of them in game with the built-in Profile Switch. Designed for performance. Every detail is designed to meet the demands of competitive gamers: low-friction, reinforced rings around each thumbstick minimize wear and provide buttery-smooth action while the rubberized diamond grip gives the controller a substantial feel and added stability. The enhanced grip allows you to hold the controller with less effort. The soft-touch finish on the top case provides a luxurious feel. What’s in the box. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Carrying case Set of 4 paddles Set of 6 thumbsticks: standard (2), tall (2), and domed (2) Set of 2 D-pads: faceted and standard USB cable AA batteries. Specifications. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. Get free shipping and hassle-free returns when you buy direct from Microsoft Store. $149.99** MSRP. Elite Button Mapping. Mass Effect: Andromeda – Power Player Configuration. Halo Wars 2 – Master Strategist. Battlefield 1 – Hair Trigger Mapping. Get the drop on your enemy with quick access to all the most important infantry combat functions in this preset. Battlefield 1 – Pilot Elite Mapping. A preset focused on the Aviator in all of us with easy access to the most important airplane based controls. Battlefield 1 – Tanker Elite Mapping. Rumble across the battlefield in your armored beast with this Tanker focused preset. Battlefield 1 – Mobility Elite Mapping. Smoothly traverse the Battlefield on foot with this soldier movement focused preset. Forza Horizon 3 – Manual Transmission Elite Mapping. Tuned for the casual style of play so you can accelerate, brake and interact with features with ease. Forza Horizon 3 -Automatic Transmission Elite Mapping. Tuned for the casual style of play so you can accelerate, brake and interact with features with ease. Recore – Color Affinity Master Elite Mapping. Tuned for the player looking to make quick and fast color affinity changes. Recore – The Navigator Elite Mapping. Tuned for the player looking to maximize jumping and dashing while turning. Dead Rising 4 – Elite Mapping. Tuned to maximize mobility and short range attacks to fend off large groups of zombies. Halo 5 – Guardians Campaign Elite Mapping. A modified version of the default controller layout that’s tuned for strategic action in the Campaign. Halo 5 – Guardians Multiplayer Elite Mapping. A modified version of the default controller layout that’s tuned for dominance in the Multiplayer Arena & Warzone. Halo 5 – Fishstick Elite Mapping. Tuned for players used to having melee on R-Stick Click. Halo 5 – Helljumper Elite Mapping. Tuned for Hell Jumper style of play so that you can simultaneously move, aim, jump and melee with ease. Forza Motorsport 6 – Manual Transmission Elite Mapping. For drivers preferring a manual transmission. Tuned to allow gamers to drive in manual mode similar to a supercar - improving car control and lap times. Gears of Wars Ultimate Edition – Melee Master Multiplayer Elite Mapping. Built for classic PvP controls, this configuration allows you to run, cover slip, or switch weapons without taking your thumb off the stick. Don't buy Microsoft's $150 Xbox One controller just yet. Microsoft unveiled a new Xbox One controller at E3 this week, called the "Xbox Elite Wireless Controller." The controller itself is extremely useful and customizable, but there's a major catch: It costs $150. That's more than double the price of a normal Xbox One controller ($60), which is already expensive as is. Here's the extra features you're getting from the "Elite" controller: A rubberized diamond grip. You will never drop this thing. A redesigned directional pad (D-pad) for better precision, which can also be removed and replaced with the traditional D-pad design A 3.5mm audio jack so you can plug in your headset, so others around you don't have to listen to your game as you play it Four new paddles on the bottom, which replicate the four face buttons so you don't have to move your hands to perform split-second actions Redesigned analog sticks that are less resistant to wear. They can also be replaced with convex analog sticks (similar to the design on the PlayStation 4's controllers) The ability to map any button or trigger to any part of the controller, and even adjust the sensitivities of those components. Even the most hardcore gamers will find few complaints with this controller, since everything can be customized to your liking, and it's generally friendlier towards all types of games and gamers. And since you can pre-configure settings and switch between those different load-outs for different games using those tiny green buttons on the back of the controller, it's easy to change your controller layout on the fly. The major downside, obviously, is the price. Keep in mind, the actual Xbox One console is $350, so if you plan to buy two Elite controllers, that's another $300 right there. If you want a complete set - 4 Elite controllers, for all of those multiplayer games like "Halo" - that's going to cost you a whopping $600. Mind you, these are premium controllers that you'll likely not need to replace anytime soon. But the price of the Xbox Elite Wireless Controllers adds to the total price of the Xbox One: If you don't have the console yet, buying an Xbox One and just a single Elite controller will put you back $500. And that doesn't even include the price of games, which cost upwards of $60 apiece, or the other accessories you might want to buy, like a quality headset. There's not much wrong with the current $60 Xbox One controller - I asked my Xbox One-owning colleagues, who all say the controller hasn't broken or deformed since purchase - but it 's great that Microsoft wanted to build a better one. That said, $150 is exorbitant for a few improvements that arguably should be standard. So wait until the eventual price drop, either during a flash sale or during the holiday season, when everything is cheaper. Keep in mind, the original Xbox One system cost $500 (with the Kinect peripheral included), but Microsoft quickly lowered the price to better compete with Sony's PlayStation 4. In time, the same thing will happen to this Elite controller. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. Rock-solid build quality. Extremely customizable. Good selection of accessories. Works wired or wireless. Very expensive. Customization options limited to Xbox One and Windows 10. The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller is one of the best feeling, most flexible gamepads you can get for your Xbox One or Windows 10 PC. The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller is Microsoft's top-of-the-line gamepad, with build quality, features, and a price tag that completely dwarf the standard Xbox One controller. This heavy-duty, customizable gamepad will run you $149.99, but it feels so good in the hand and it works so well with Xbox One and PC games that it earns our Editors' Choice. If you want to use it with a PC, though, you'll want to make sure you have Windows 10 installed to get the most out of the controller. Similar Products. Valve Steam Controller. Nintendo Wii U Pro Controller. Google Gamepad for Nexus Player. Nvidia Shield Wireless Controller. The big differences are a two-position mode selector switch located above and between the right analog stick and direction pad, and a set of four removable metal paddle buttons that snap magnetically into slots on the underside of the controller. These paddles can be mapped to function like any other button on the controller, including pressing the digital pad, clicking the analog sticks, and pulling the pressure-sensitive triggers (but not pulling the analog stick in any given direction) . A small switch located above each pair of paddles mechanically limits the trigger buttons' range of motion, if you don't want to deal with the full pull distance of the triggers. Besides removing the paddles, you can also take out and swap the caps of the analog sticks and the direction pad, all of which click into place with magnets. The Elite Controller comes with two pairs of analog sticks with concave rubber caps at different heights, a pair of DualShock 3-style convex rubber caps at the lower height, plus both a circular eight-direction cover and a standard cross-shaped cover for the direction pad. All of these components, along with the connectors built into the gamepad, are completely metal except for the rubber coatings of the caps of the analog sticks. Non-control aspects of the controller are largely the same as the standard Xbox One gamepad, as well. A micro USB port on the top lets you connect the controller with an included cloth-wrapped cable to your Xbox One or a compatible PC either to charge or use as a wired controller. A small button for wireless pairing sits just to the left of the port. A connector on the bottom of the controller, between the hand grips, accepts the standard Xbox One gaming headset or adapter. A door on the underside of the controller, above the slots for the paddles, holds the two AA batteries required for the gamepad to function wirelessly. Build Quality and Accessories. The Elite Controller comes with a hard zip-up carrying case with foam inserts for all of the interchangeable components, including the paddles if you don't wish to use them. The included USB cable is a lengthy nine feet, so you can easily use it as a wired controller from your couch. Two non-rechargeable batteries are also included so you can use the gamepad right away, but at $150, a built-in rechargeable option, like the battery built into the DualShock 4 controller, would have been preferred. The Elite Controller stands as a stark contrast to Valve's Steam Controller , which we've also looked at. Both are functional Windows gamepads, but the Elite Controller uses a thoroughly conventional Xbox layout while the Steam Controller uses touch-sensitive pads as the focus of its control scheme. The build quality between the two is also drastically different; the Elite Controller feels nearly bulletproof and very solid, while I found the Steam Controller to feel a bit cheap. These customization options are also available to Windows 10 users, along with wireless connectivity. If you want to use it with Windows 7 or 8, however, you'll need to use a wired connection with the included cable, and you won't have access to the Xbox Accessories app. The controller worked flawlessly with a Windows 10 PC as well, getting recognized as soon as I plugged it in. Shovel Knight and Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance worked with the gamepad as soon as I started them up, and they both felt extremely responsive. Revengeance was slightly floaty with the default sensitivity settings, but that's the sort of situation where the Xbox Accessories app can be used to tweak things to your liking. The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller is a very expensive gamepad, and the sticker price alone will be enough to turn off some gamers. However, it's a rock-solid controller that's adjustable to a neurotic extent, and its compatibility with both Xbox One and Windows systems gives you plenty of options for use. If you're the kind of gamer who lives with your hands glued to a gamepad (and that gamepad isn't a DualShock 4 connected to a PlayStation 4 ), this could be a very good investment for you. It's built to last, feels great in the hand, and works with pretty much anything you can throw at it on a Microsoft platform, so it earns our Editors' Choice. If it's too pricey, or you prefer the PlayStation layout, there are a few roundabout ways to connect a DualShock 4 to your PC as an alternative. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. Bottom Line: The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller is one of the best feeling, most flexible gamepads you can get for your Xbox One or Windows 10 PC. About the Author. Will Greenwald has been covering consumer technology for a decade, and has served on the editorial staffs of CNET.com, Sound & Vision, and Maximum PC. His work and analysis has been seen in GamePro, Tested.com, Geek.com, and several other publications. He currently covers consumer electronics in the PC Labs as the in-house home entertainment expert. See Full Bio. More From Will. Harman Kardon Allure. Retro-Bit Super Retro-Cade. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. Build a smarter home with tips, how-to stories, product reviews, and more delivered right to your inbox. Subscribing to a newsletter indicates your consent to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. // Most Popular Articles. Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest About Us PCMag Digital Edition Newsletters Encyclopedia RSS Feed More From Ziff Davis: Computer Shopper ExtremeTech Geek AskMen Everyday Health IGN Offers.com Speedtest.net TechBargains Toolbox What to Expect RSS Feeds Site Map Contact Us Privacy Policy. PC, PC Magazine and PC PCMag.com are among the federally registered trademarks of. Ziff Davis, LLC and may not be used by third parties without explicit permission. We have updated our PRIVACY POLICY and encourage you to read it by clicking here. Microsoft Xbox Elite Controller review: Luxury gaming and customization, at a price. Elite Wireless Controller for Xbox One is head and shoulder buttons above the rest. Its price tag -- $150, £120 or AU$200 -- puts it in an exclusive class, but the Elite controller is one of the most customizable, comfortable and luxurious controllers we've ever used. by Jeff Bakalar. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15. Microsoft Xbox Elite Controller. Hot Products. Apple iPhone X. Samsung Galaxy Note 8. Google Home Mini. Google Pixel 2 XL. The Good The Elite controller is an ultra-satisfying, high-end Xbox One and PC controller that offers an impressive amount of customization on its analog sticks, D-pad and triggers, and introduces back paddles. The Xbox Elite app allows for even more personalization, including the ability to remap every button on the controller. The Bad It's tough to justify that hefty price. The back paddles are very easy to hit accidentally if you're not accustomed to them. Rechargeable batteries would not have been too much to ask. The Bottom Line Its $150, £120 or AU$200 price tag certainly puts it in an exclusive class, but the Elite controller is one of the most customizable, comfortable and luxurious controllers we've ever used. Review Sections. CNET Gaming Microsoft Xbox Elite Controller. The Elite Wireless Controller for Xbox One and PC is one of the most comfortable controllers I've ever held. It's head and shoulders ahead of other controllers for Microsoft's console and other platforms. The only problem is its eyebrow-raising price: $150, £120 or AU$200. Odds are you probably don't need to spend that kind of money -- two and a half times more than a regular wireless pad -- on an Xbox One controller. But for the privileged few, the Elite is an indulgence that delivers in ways no other controller can. It's immediately noticeable how much heavier the Elite is than the original Xbox One controller. It feels substantial and luxurious. Every button on the controller operates with flawless tactile feedback and satisfying smoothness. A matte rubberized coating wraps most of the controller, with the grips getting an extra textured detailing. It feels like you're holding a really high-end gadget. The included molded carrying case demands it not be left on a coffee table or couch. Impressive build quality aside, the Elite controller's main selling point is the massive amount of customization possible with the analog sticks, triggers, D-pad and more. It comes with three sets of magnetic, stainless steel analog sticks that can be easily swapped in and out. Two sets of concave-topped sticks, one of normal height and another twice the height, and one set of domed sticks can be mixed and matched to your specific taste. The analog ball joints feel really solid too and they have a certain buttery springiness that the original controller just doesn't offer. I enjoyed using the taller concave right stick for first-person shooters -- it makes precision aiming much easier. There are two D-pads included with the Elite, a traditional "plus" design and a circular, almost octagonal shape that makes hitting diagonal directions a bit easier. Both easy swap out with magnetic fittings. Hot Products. Apple iPhone X. The best iPhone asks you to think different. Samsung Galaxy Note 8. Excellent, powerful -- and pricey. Google Home Mini. Google Home Mini sounds great but lacks vision. Google Pixel 2 XL. Google Pixel 2 XL: What we know so far. August Smart Lock (2017) August's affordable Smart Lock is solid, even sans Siri. This week on CNET News. Discuss Microsoft Xbox Elite Controller. Be respectful, keep it clean and stay on topic. We'll remove comments that violate our policy. Engadget. Nintendo Labo hands-on: Cardboard has never been this fun. ‘Diablo’ creator’s next game is a 2D dungeon crawler. Nintendo Labo gadgets can be remixed with 'Toy-Con Garage' Latest in Gaming. Nintendo Labo hands-on: Cardboard has never been this fun. ‘Diablo’ creator’s next game is a 2D dungeon crawler. Nintendo Labo gadgets can be remixed with 'Toy-Con Garage' Spotify teams with Discord to soundtrack your gaming chats. Xbox One Elite controller review: A better gamepad at a steep price. Xbox One Elite Wireless Controller. Get more info. Critic 10 Reviews. Key Specs. Type Controller / gamepad Connection Wireless Console compatibility Microsoft. Is a gamepad worth $150? That's the question Microsoft is asking with the Xbox One Elite controller, a revamp of its almost two-year-old paddle that shipped with the Xbox One. The company isn't targeting this as a device for the mainstream, though. Rather, the Elite is instead for highly competitive gamers -- the type that'd mod their controllers with third-party accessories for greater precision. The customization it offers comes at a steep price, costing over twice as much as the standard $60 controller. Why should you care? Because the vanilla Xbox One controller feels like a cheap knock-off of the vaunted Xbox 360 pad that came before it. Microsoft said it spent over $100 million designing it, considering smell-o-vision and even a built-in projector for the gamepad, only to wind up with a mostly inferior clone. It has too many sharp edges, feels incredibly hollow and seems, well, cheap. Honestly, one of the biggest reasons I don't play my Xbox One much as my PlayStation 4 is because I prefer the latter's DualShock 4 controller. Keep all that in mind when you consider the following statement: I've been using the Elite controller for almost a week and I haven't wanted to put it down; this is the Xbox One gamepad we should've had from the outset. Engadget Score. Feels great in-hand; very grippy finish throughout Loads of customization options Mature, understated design Improves on the standard Xbox One gamepad in every way Bumper buttons are finally, actually usable. Expensive Levers and faceted d-pad don't feel secure Feels heavy at first Clamshell case doesn't keep everything in place Customization options could be overwhelming for some. The Elite controller is the best Xbox gamepad Microsoft has ever made, but it doesn't come cheap. At $150, your best bet is waiting for a price drop or a bundle deal unless you're dead-set on getting a leg up against folks online. Gallery: Xbox One Elite controller | 28 Photos. Out of the box, the Elite looks like a superficial upgrade. Aside from the 3.5mm headphone jack up front and the new slider control underneath and equidistant from the Menu and Options buttons, you'd be forgiven for confusing the Elite pad with the standard one. It's when you start futzing around with the different thumbstick options or snapping metal levers into the underside that the gamepad starts looking unique. The Elite comes with a clamshell case that has a molded space for the controller, a cargo pouch for spare earbuds, batteries and the pack-in, braided micro-USB cable (a requirement for most tournaments) that will tether the pad to a console. There's also a molded rubber holder that keeps the four control levers, two sets of thumbsticks and spare directional pad in place. The idea behind the latter is that it'll keep your extra parts secure during travel so they don't fall out after unzipping the case. In practice, everything stayed in place for me aside from the faceted directional pad -- its section is too loose to keep that from bouncing around. On the flip side, the cross-style option fit incredibly snugly. The first thing I noticed when I picked up the controller to pair it with my console was how heavy it was compared to the standard gamepad. Microsoft says that with all four levers attached, a pair of included Duracell AAs and standard thumbsticks, the Elite weighs 348 grams, give or take 15. That's 12.3 ounces compared to its predecessor's 9.9 ounces. Honestly, though, the only time I noticed was when I picked it up since more often than not, when I'm gaming, my hands rest in my lap. That heft likely comes from the Elite's revamped innards. The thumbsticks feel incredibly springy and precise, thanks to their metal construction. I've never been a fan of the sticks on the Xbox One pad. They've always felt rough and just weren't comfortable to me. With the Elite, I had the option of choosing among three different sets (standard, tall and a pair of convex heads) and changing them on the fly, but most of the time I was perfectly happy with the standard set. All are incredibly comfortable, though, and have the same premium feel as the rest of the controller. Customization station. Depending on the game, I opted for different configurations. For Halo 5: Guardians , I stuck a standard stick on the left and one of the twice-as-tall options on the right. With Forza Motorsport 6 , I reversed that. Why? With shooters, the extra height gave me more leverage and ensured I wouldn't hit a face button by accident while aiming my assault rifle at my quarry. In a racing game, the added height made steering a lot easier. Not only have the thumbsticks gotten an overhaul, but also the pots they sit in did too. Microsoft added a low-friction ring to where the stick makes contact with the faceplate and the result is pretty dramatic. Movement just feels smoother because the metal shafts glide effortlessly around when you're pushing them toward the edges. It makes using the controller a bit quieter, too. The sync button's now sharing a lime green hue with the d-pad socket, hair-trigger locks and contact points for the control levers. What are those? Metal pieces between an inch and an inch and a half long that act as secondary inputs for any button on the controller. There are four total (two angled, two straight) and you can arrange them in a number of different ways, some correct and others less so. It's possible, for example, to arrange them in a way where they'll overlap. Like the rest of the custom options, these hold in place magnetically and if you'd rather not use them, that's entirely up to you. One of my biggest complaints about the standard controller is how stiff the right and left shoulder buttons are. They have an incredibly narrow sweet spot to register a depression and using them has always felt really hit or miss to me, with the innermost edge being damn near impossible to press in. With the Elite, that gripe's been eliminated. Here, they're a little easier to press at their outermost edges, but even at the opposite end (where the actuators reside) it takes dramatically less effort and is more even all the way across. Both the shoulder buttons and the triggers below feature a matte silver finish versus the standard's slippery black gloss, and the latter's throw is about 3/16 of an inch shorter. And rather than the standard triggers' squishy feel, these make a firm click when you bottom out. The battery tray is in the same place as before, but now it has markers indicating what position the hair-trigger locks are in. Immediately on either side are the recessed metal knobs that take the analog triggers and dramatically reduce the distance you need to pull before your on-screen gun fires. I couldn't find a use for the faceted d-pad during my review, but supposedly it's better for pulling combos in fighting games. As a button masher (rest assured I'm not quitting my day job for eSports) it felt like the magnet was barely able to hold the concave piece of metal in place. Sure, it looks cool, but once I installed the metallic cross d-pad, I never took it out. The A, B, X and Y buttons changed from green, red, blue and yellow, respectively, to all black. And the aforementioned standard headphone jack rests off to the side of where the previously required headset adapter did on the standard controller, while a legacy connection for purpose-built headsets like the Astro A40 Xbox One Edition sits next to it. It's a smart move because it doesn't alienate anyone who bought a specific headset previously. To me, the standard controller has always felt like a prototype rather than a final product -- with its rough edges and other questionable design choices. That isn't the case here. The Elite features a soft rubber finish on a majority of its surface, with a more aggressive diamond-pattern grip where your palms rest underneath. The DualShock 4 has a textured underside too, but it can't hold a candle to this. For example, sliding the Elite across the glass desk in my home office proved pretty difficult. I might as well have been dragging a pencil eraser across it. Even after a four-hour Halo 5 session, the controller didn't feel like it'd slip out of my moist palms. The customization options don't stop with the hardware -- there's an app that gives you the chance to completely rebind every button's function (aside from Menu and Options) to a different one. Want the digital shoulder buttons to perform the trigger duties? I can't recommend that, but go right ahead. How about adjusting the A, B, X and Y buttons so they mimic Nintendo's non-standard layout? Have at it. Effectively, this gives you complete control of how your gamepad works, without being subject to the tyranny of pre-defined control schemes on a game-by-game basis. Gallery: Xbox Accessories app | 23 Photos. Beyond that there's a raft of other custom settings. The new slider button allows for swapping between two onboard control schemes, but you can create and save as many as you want to your system profile and access them from anywhere with an internet connection. There are independent adjustments for thumbstick sensitivity (slow start, fast start, instant, default) that govern how much distance the sticks need to travel before in-game movement registers. An option for adjusting trigger sensitivity and dead-zone is here too. Also, if you've ever wanted to turn down the haptic feedback, or turn it off completely, there's an option for that as well. Really, all that's missing is the ability to turn the guide button's light off completely and the option to permanently invert the right stick's Y-axis. The latter's especially puzzling considering you can swap left and right thumbstick assignments (so movement maps to the right stick and aiming goes to the left) within the app. Let's say you're like me and are incredibly overwhelmed by the complexity of remapping every button on the controller. That's where game developer-made presets come into play. There are only a handful available right now and they're all for first-party games like Halo , Forza 6 and Gears of War, but Microsoft promises more are en route for Star Wars: Battlefront III and Call of Duty: Black Ops III . The Halo 5 preset tailored to campaign mode, for instance, liberates squad commands and waypoint location from their cumbersome position on the d-pad to the control levers. Reaching down to the d-pad to tell Team Osiris to attack an enemy is awkward, but assigning that task to the levers makes perfect sense because it's always within reach. More dramatic is the difference the levers make in Forza 6, where they serve as paddle shifters and a clutch for manual transmissions. They're really useful; I've never been comfortable using a stick shift with a gamepad, but since I don't have the space in my apartment, a racing wheel isn't feasible. That isn't the case anymore. But, having all four levers in place (manual requires two; manual with clutch doubles that) clutters things up a bit. Anytime I put all four on regardless of the game, I ran the risk of accidentally pressing a few simultaneously. What's more, of everything on the controller, the levers feel most likely to fall off while playing because the magnets don't seem as strong as elsewhere on the gamepad. The previous controller's battery life is incredible, and after roughly 15 hours during my review, the fresh set of standard AAs had only worn down to 75 percent capacity. I have no doubt that the Elite will match or best its forebearer's battery lifespan, especially considering the options for adjusting haptic motor intensity. Again, is all of this worth $150? That answer depends on how much and what you play on Xbox One -- regardless of your pro-gaming aspirations. Even disregarding the hardware customization options, there are considerable improvements. Were the Elite a $30 premium over the standard controller instead of $90, my recommendation would be a lot easier. Instead I'm hesitant: One of the controllers will set you back almost half of what the console you'd use it with costs. Sure, the Elite doesn't feel like a cheap toy, but everyone else might want to hold out for a price drop considering that the customization app is coming for the standard controller too, and the rubber handgrips I'm so fond of exist on another official gamepad. If you've been waiting to buy an Xbox One, go for the upcoming Elite bundle that packs the controller and a console sporting a 1TB hybrid drive for $499 because for now the controller's price is too hard to justify on its own. Nintendo Labo hands-on: Cardboard has never been this fun. Nintendo's crazy Switch accessories aren't so crazy after all. ‘Diablo’ creator’s next game is a 2D dungeon crawler. ‘It Lurks Below’ is slated to come out later in 2018. YouTube's live TV service is now available on Apple TV. The rollout may finally be complete. Snapchat's in-app Snap Store peddles memetastic merch. Because who doesn't want a dancing hotdog toy with a removable bun? 2017 was Amazon's best year for new Prime subscriptions so far. It raked in a whopping $1.9 billion in profits last quarter as well. Use the Xbox Accessories app to configure your Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. When you open the Xbox Accessories app, you'll see two buttons, Configure and Device info . Note If you have more than one controller connected, you'll see all the controllers when you move right. If several people are signed in, the assigned profiles will appear above the controllers. Device info. Choose Device info to rename your controller, turn on Copilot , and see general information about your controller. Select Configure to create and edit custom configurations for your controller. Your saved configurations stay with your profile and are available on any Xbox One or PC your controller is connected to. Get started by browsing in Community configurations and adding ones you like to your own list of configurations. Or choose New configuration to make one from scratch. Below these options are the configurations that are currently assigned to the two slots in your controller. The next section down lists all your saved configurations. Select one to perform these actions: Edit is where you do your customization, including these options: Button mapping - Use the top drop-down menu to select which button you want to change and then, under Map to , select the corresponding button that you want to remap its functionality to. The image of the controller on the screen will update to show you which buttons are which. This screen also gives you these options: Left and right stick sensitivity - Select Left stick or Right stick to customize and control how each stick responds during gameplay. Once you've chosen the stick you want to customize, you can select Default , Delay , Aggressive , Instant , or Smooth depending on how responsive you want the stick to be in your game. For example, if you want the controller to respond faster over a shorter stick movement, select Instant . You'll see a graph that shows you the response curve of the stick. Note Depending on the game you play, these settings will have different responses. One way to test your settings is to set Slot 1 to Default and Slot 2 to your customized setting. Trigger sensitivity - Adjust the maximum and minimum ranges of your triggers. You have two options for customizing them—with the hair-trigger mechanical switch on your controller or with the Trigger sensitivity section in the app. The hair-trigger mechanical switch works great for shooting games, because it reduces how much you need to pull on the triggers to fire. It may not work as well for driving games, since you need the accelerator to go the full distance for maximum acceleration. Adjusting the trigger sensitivity comes in handy here. You can change the max and min thresholds for the triggers. For example, if you shorten the max distance, you'll get to maximum acceleration with less pulling of the trigger. Try setting your two slots differently and adjusting in real time to see the differences. Vibration - Adjust the vibration sensitivity of your controllers. You can independently adjust four motors: Left trigger , Right trigger , Left main (in the handle), and Right main . The motors are at a default of 100% and can be adjusted down to 0%. When you adjust these slides, this changes the intensity of the vibration. Xbox button brightness – Decrease the brightness of the Xbox button if you prefer, down to 10% of standard brightness. This is especially useful if you like playing in the dark. Save to slot 1 / Save to slot 2. The slots correspond with the Profile Switch in the middle of your Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. You can have two different profiles saved to your controller at one time. For example, if Slot 1 is your shooter profile and Slot 2 is your racing profile, just flip the switch and you're ready to go. You won't need to adjust any other settings. You can also do this while you play a game. Your configuration of the slots travels with your controllers. If you take your controller to a friend's house, the configuration will be saved on the controller and usable there. If you customize Slot 1 or Slot 2 on your controller on a different console, the new configuration will be saved to the controller and overwrite your old configuration. Make a copy of the configuration so you can use it as the basis of a new configuration without having to start over. Change the name of your saved configuration. For example, if your configuration is for playing Halo 5, you can name it Halo 5 or anything you want. Deleting the configuration doesn't affect the controller, it just erases the configuration. Servicing your Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. Replace removable parts. If you misplaced removable parts, order replacements online at the Xbox Online Service Center. Check out licensed third-party options. If your removable parts don't function properly, you'll need to replace your controller. Replace your controller. Before you request a replacement controller, check the troubleshooting topics at All about your Xbox Elite Wireless Controller. Many issues that affect your Xbox Elite Wireless Controller can be resolved with the help of these topics. Important If you do need to send your Xbox Elite Wireless Controller to our service center, do not send removable parts with your controller. They will not be returned to you. Keep all the removable D-pads, paddles, and thumb sticks. You'll receive a replacement controller without these parts, so you'll need to use those original parts with the replacement controller. Visit the Xbox Online Service Center to request an Xbox Elite Wireless Controller replacement. Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1. Which is the best pro gamepad for you? When it comes to professional-grade Xbox One controllers, you’ve really only got two options if you want the best of the best. There’s the Microsoft own Xbox One Elite Controller, which is a fully customisable pad with metal trimmings. But then there’s also the SCUF Infinity 1 from a well-established third-party manufacturer. But it’s another customisable pad that’s strongly worth your consideration. We’ve put the two pads through their paces to make sure you’re spending your money wisely. Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Price. The biggest hurdle for upgrading to an enhanced gamepad will be the price. If you’re still classing yourself as a “casual gamer”, a controller that’s over the £100 mark might seem like a massive waste of money. But the more hardcore and professional gamers among us will think that’s the price you have to pay in order to get the type of controller that serves all your gaming needs. The Xbox One Elite Controller retails for £129.99 RRP, but it’s proving rather difficult to get your hands on, with most retailers currently sold out or with limited stock. The SCUF Infinity 1 pricing is a little more complicated. Prices start at £95.99 for the basic black and white versions, but once you start personalising and customising the Infinity 1, prices can reach a lofty £202.50 if you go for all the bells and whistles. Those available without personalisation are priced at a maximum of £127.99, though. Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Design. But if you’re willing to spend some serious dosh, the design of your professional controller will really swing your decision. Whether it’s the triggers, rear paddles, button mapping or the analogue sticks that are really important to you, there’s a ton of difference between the SCUF and Microsoft pads. Customisation options aside, there are some basic differences in the overall design. The Elite pad is kitted out with metal on the triggers, bumpers, D-pad and the shafts of the analogue sticks. The rest is finished with a matte soft-touch plastic and a monochrome colour scheme, making for a far more sophisticated and mature look. The SCUF Infinity 1 is also finished with a soft-touch matte plastic, which comes in a variety of colours. The analogue sticks are a glossy plastic, as is the D-Pad and triggers/bumpers. In the build-your-own tool on the SCUF website, you can make your Infinity 1 as garish or as understated as you like – or even pick an eSports team’s colours. Sign up for the newsletter. Get news, competitions and special offers direct to your inbox. Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Triggers. When it comes to games like FPS titles at a competitive level, the speed of your triggers for aiming and getting that kill in really matter. The Xbox One Elite Controller features new Hair Lock Triggers, which allow you to restrict the travel of both triggers independently. You do this by flipping the shiny green switches on the back of the controller. It’s quick and easy to do, and makes sure you have immediate control over your trigger travel – even on a per-game or mid-game basis. However, you’ll need to do this for every single game if you want to go for the full personalisation option. The Xbox One Elite Controller is certainly easier to adjust on the fly and feels more responsive. Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Paddles. Both the Xbox One Elite Controller and the SCUF Infinity 1 feature four rear paddles for providing alternative button options at the touch of a finger (rather than a thumb). The SCUF Infinity 1’s paddles all hang vertically down the back of the gamepad from a boxy panel. They’re stiff, responsive, but sometimes feel a little out of reach. They’re not permanent though, as you can remove them from the rear of the controller, meaning they’re not going to dangle there if you don’t want them to. The SCUF Pad comes with the paddles automatically mapped to the face buttons, but in order to remap them you’ll need to have added the Electro-Magnetic Remapping feature during your build and then use the Mag Key to switch inputs. It’s a little complicated to do, as you need to remap each button individually using the magnets and button pressing. The Xbox One Elite Controller paddles on the other hand are all removable. Everything attaches using magnets and it’s just a case of flicking the paddles out of their rear sockets – which you’ll be tempted to fiddle with at first like a child with a loose tooth. They’re much better positioned for your fingers, so you don’t have to adjust the position of your hands. And it’s a lot easier to remap the Elite’s paddles. It’s done via the Xbox Accessories app available for Windows 10 and Xbox One and can be done on a per-game basis. I particularly like using them as alternatives for the L3 and R3 inputs. Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Grip. If you’ve ever felt like the Xbox One controller lacks that gripability, you’ll be pleased that both the Infinity 1 and the Elite come with enhanced grips. The Xbox One Elite Controller’s monochrome colour scheme is broken up by grey, faceted matte rubber grips on each handle. They mould into your hands and make sure that, regardless of your sweaty palm situation, the controller stays put. The standard option on the SCUF Infinity 1 features soft rubber grips, but when you build your SCUF pad, you have the option to add FPS grips to the controller. For the extra £11.99, the FPS Grips also add Adjustable Hair Triggers and the Trigger Stop Mechanism, along with the circular SCUF logo detailing that adds extra grip. It’s a bit sticky with a sweaty palm, though, but still miles better than the standard Xbox One controller. The Elite just has that extra comfort. Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Analogue Sticks. One of the key differences between the two pro-grade controllers is the analogue sticks, both in their material construction and the options available. The Elite Controller comes with three different analogue stick options in the box, with the spares stored within the controller’s clamshell case. You get a set of standard concave sticks, a set of longer versions that improve reach and finally, a set of regular length domed analogue sticks. All of the Elite’s analogue sticks feature metal shafts, with hard matte plastic pads. The rings around the analogue sticks themselves are reinforced with metal for enhanced durability. The analogue sticks on the Elite Controller are held in by strong magnets, meaning swapping out the sticks is just a case of pulling out the current options and snapping on a different set. You can opt for different choices for each analogue stick too, if you don’t want matching. It means you won’t be able to swap out analogue sticks on the fly from the off, though. There is the option to purchase additional options from the SCUF store. For £10.99 you get a set of three analogue sticks – either three domed or three concave (regular, medium or long). That means if you want to upgrade both of your sticks you’re going to have to buy two packs to get matching. And they’re a bit annoying to swap out. You’ll need to use the strange hubcap-style gadget, which slots over the analogue stick and twists to remove the outer ring. You can then pull off the analogue stick, replace it with a new one and reattach the ring. The SCUF Infinity 1’s analogue stick and rings are also made out of a hard plastic rather than the metal on the Elite. SCUF explains that they’re actually made of a “high-grade self-lubricating material” that “provides a pro-grade finish offering improved smoothness, life and feel of thumbsticks”, but I’m not convinced. Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: D-Pad. Both the Xbox One Elite controller and the SCUF Infinity 1 are available with a pair of D-pad options. As with the analogue sticks, the Elite Controller comes with both options included in the box. There’s a metal version of the normal cross-shaped D-pad, or the rather more flashy metal faceted option that’s great for fighting games. These also swap out using magnetic attachments for easy switching. Again, the SCUF pad requires you to upgrade the D-pad when building. The option akin to the faceted Elite D-pad is called the Control Ring in SCUF land, and allows you to have a more lucid selection process. It’s an extra £6.99 on top of the base £95.99 price, but it’s well worth it to get this matte plastic ring D-pad. That’s because when you don’t want to use it, you can simply prise it off and reveal a regular glossy plastic D-pad underneath. Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Customisation. We’ve outlined most of this before, but it’s important to remember that the Xbox One Elite Controller comes with all the various customisation options in the box along with a clamshell case to keep it all in. For your £129.99 investment you get the three sets of analogue sticks, two D-Pads and four paddles. There’s no worries about having to buy additional kit (unless you lose something, because at present there are no spares available to buy). But to get the same amount of customisation options for the SCUF, you’re going to need to personalise your controller with all the top-notch features and buy some additional accessories. The base price for the SCUF Infinity 1 is £95.99. But to get the customisation on the triggers, the Control Ring D-Pad, paddle remapping, FPS Grip and your choice of a single set of analogue sticks bumps that price up to £142.53. You’ve then potentially got the choice to buy additional analogue stick options, which will cost you either £10.99 for one set of three, or £21.98 to get three matching sets. That’s a whopping £164.51 (and you’ve still not got a carry case). Xbox One Elite Controller vs SCUF Infinity 1: Button Mapping. And then there’s the issue of button mapping. The SCUF Infinity 1 only allows you to remap the paddles, which must be enabled in the build your controller menu before you buy – it’s known as Electro Magnetic Remapping. This will then allow you to customise your paddle configurations using the SCUF Mag Key included with the EMR option. It’s a fiddly process and one I’ve not quite managed to master as yet. However, that means you’ll need to adjust the paddle configurations for each game manually, as there’s no way to store profiles on the controller or your Xbox One itself. The app gives you the option of remapping every button on the controller, using game specific presets, adjust various sensitivities including analogue stick respond and triggers and more. You can also save two profiles to the controller itself, switching between them using the toggle you can see above. Loading a new one only takes a few seconds too, if you’re playing multiple titles in one session and want to have the full customisation experience. The Xbox One Elite Controller just has the edge on the SCUF. It features more customisation options out of the box for a lower price, is easier to customise, and has full button remapping. Plus those metal details and the monochrome colour scheme make it feel far more premium.