The Xbox Elite Series 2 is getting some eye-catching color schemes
Mario or Sonic?
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The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core controller is finally getting alternate colorways, and you’ll be able to buy them very soon.
Available from April 11, the Xbox Elite Series 2 controllers' Core variant will be purchasable in either vibrant red or blue color schemes. These versions of the pad come in at $139.99 / £124.99 / AU$189.95, which is $10 / £10 pricier than the standard white version (although prices are listed as being the same for Australians).
The Core version of this ‘Pro’ adjacentXbox Series X|S controller is identical to the more expensiveXbox Elite Series 2. However, it does not include extras like swappable sticks, back paddles, a charging dock, or a carry case. Instead, you can buy the Complete Component Pack separately, which includes all the above for $59.99 / £54.99 / AU$79.95.
The price works out about the same this way, but the Core pad is a good option if you’re not too fussed about the Elite Series 2’s accessories.
Sonic (and Mario) Colors
While the vibrant red and blue might seem like obvious, or uninspired, color choices here, they are at least more options for a controller that, until now, only had one standard white finish. That is if you don’t want to pay extra for a custom controller aesthetic viaXbox Design Lab.
I do quite like the choices of color, but part of me wishes the D-pad and face buttons were black or at least a different shade of red and blue to contrast better against the controller’s casing. This is sort of the case with the white Core controller, which features a metallic, off-white shade on the d-pad, and I think it looks great.
Two more color choices is a good start, but I hopeMicrosofthas plans for more color schemes further down the line. TheXbox Wireless Controllerhas a vast number of alternate color schemes, from basic primary colors to flashier designs such as the cosmic Lunar Shift and the funky, translucentForza Horizon 5version.
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Ultimately, though, if you’re looking for the full ‘Pro’ controller experience, I’d still recommend buying the standard Xbox Elite Series 2 controller with all the bells and whistles. Swappable sticks and back paddles alone add tons of customizability to your playstyle, and the pad feels a little lacking without them.
Rhys is TRG’s Hardware Editor, and has been part of the TechRadar team for more than two years. Particularly passionate about high-quality third-party controllers and headsets, as well as the latest and greatest in fight sticks and VR, Rhys strives to provide easy-to-read, informative coverage on gaming hardware of all kinds. As for the games themselves, Rhys is especially keen on fighting and racing games, as well as soulslikes and RPGs.
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