With the Elite Series 2 and the Core Edition, Microsoft offers two very similar controllers. But which one should you buy?
With the Xbox Elite Series 2, Microsoft has had a pro controller on the market for years, and it is considered a recommendable controller by many players. Since the end of 2022, there is another version of the Elite 2, the Elite 2 Core Edition, available. But what are the differences?
Xbox Elite Series 2 or Core Edition, which should I buy? MeinMMO explains the differences and helps you with your purchasing decision.
Xbox Elite Series 2 vs Elite 2 Core – Price
How much do the controllers cost? The price is the most obvious difference between the Xbox Elite Series 2 and the Core Edition:
- The Xbox Elite Series 2 has a suggested retail price of 180 euros.
- The Xbox Core Edition has a suggested retail price of 130 euros.
In direct comparison, you save 50 euros when opting for the Core model.
Xbox Elite Series 2 vs Elite 2 Core – Design
There are some differences in design between the two models. The Core controller has a large white area in the middle, while the Elite Series 2 is uniform in color.
However, with the Elite Series 2, you have more color options: In the Xbox Design Lab, you can customize and personalize your controller. The Core Edition does not offer this option.
If you don’t care much about the colors and are solely focused on the functions, you can safely ignore this point.
Xbox Elite Series 2 vs Elite 2 Core – Functions
Both models offer you the following functions:
- You can adjust the tension of the two thumbsticks with a provided tool.
- Both models offer trigger stop switches: This allows you to adjust the pressure depth of the triggers more finely.
- Both devices offer rubber grips with the same ergonomic shape.
- The battery life is expected to be very similar for both models.
Both controllers also offer the ability to create profiles for specific buttons. This can be done via the Xbox Accessories app on the PC. In theory, you can remap any button on your controller.
In terms of functionality, the controllers differ little from each other, while the differences in accessories are more pronounced.
Xbox Elite Series 2 vs Elite 2 Core – Accessories
The biggest difference between the two controller options that Xbox offers lies in the included accessories with both controllers. Because they vary significantly:
- The Elite Series 2 Core includes the controller, a tool for the thumbsticks, and a braided charging cable.
- The Elite Series 2 additionally offers a charging station, four paddle buttons, extra thumbsticks of varying sizes, and an optional D-pad. As a bonus, there is also a carrying case for the controller.
Basically, with the Core model, you have the option to purchase the accessories later. The so-called “Component Pack” costs about 50 euros and offers you the same accessories that are already included with the Elite Series 2.
With the “Component Pack,” the Core model becomes like the Elite Series 2 – but without the color options:
Xbox Elite Series 2 or Elite 2 Core – Which one should I buy?
The Elite Series 2 offers you the ultimate package of accessories and personalization options. However, you will also pay around 150 euros for it. This is especially worthwhile if you want to buy a pro controller for paddles and wish to adjust the buttons more finely.
The Elite 2 Core is the entry-level package, but you will have to forego color personalization and much accessories like the paddles. Essentially, you can buy these items later. With the “Component Pack” for about 60 euros, the Core model also becomes like the Elite Series 2 – but without the color options.
If you are already considering or know that you will purchase the “Component Pack,” it is better to go directly for the Elite Series 2, as it is cheaper than buying the items separately.
| Elite Series 2 | Elite 2 Core | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | 179.99 euros | 129.99 euros (+ “Component Pack” for 60 euros) |
| Color | Black, selectable colors in Xbox Design Lab | Blue, red, or white |
| Functions | Adjustable thumbsticks and trigger switches, rubber grips, ergonomic shape | Adjustable thumbsticks and trigger switches, rubber grips, ergonomic shape |
| Accessories | Tool for thumbsticks, braided charging cable | Tool for thumbsticks, braided charging cable, charging station, four paddle buttons, extra thumbsticks, optional D-pad, carrying case |
Is there a third option? If you don’t need accessories or additional features, you can also go for the standard Xbox controller. It will only cost you 60 euros, but it does not offer any of the additional functions and you can only retrofit the standard controller to a limited extent.
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