What is the difference between the Xbox Elite Controller Series 1 and Series 2?

The key difference is that the Elite Series 2 is an upgraded version of the Elite 1, with more customization options and improvements to design and connectivity, but at a higher price point. While the Elite 1 remains an excellent high-end controller, the Elite 2 represents the latest evolution of the premium pro-level Xbox gamepad.

At their core, both deliver a robust, customizable experience for competitive gaming well beyond a standard Xbox controller. Let‘s take a detailed look at how they compare.

Overview of the Elite Controllers

The Xbox Elite line of controllers cater to dedicated Xbox gamers who want to customize their experience and eliminate any compromise for competitive play.

Some core design principles they share:

• Premium Construction: Built with high quality materials for a premium feel and durability

• Enhanced Ergonomics: Textured rubberized grips improve comfort and control

• Customization: Interchangeable parts and remapping options to tailor to your needs

• Pro-level Extras: Paddles, hair triggers and other enhancers for performance

The Elite 2 takes these principles even further with upgraded features. But both deliver a level of quality far above a stock Xbox controller. They are an investment targeted at hardcore gamers who want to avoid any barrier between them and game domination.

Xbox Elite Controller Series 1 Overview

Released in 2015 alongside the standard Xbox One controller, the original Elite was a revelation for what a premium controller could offer.

It introduced a suite of customization and ergonomic options not seen before in a first-party controller:

• Interchangeable Thumbsticks – Tall, short, domed & concave; enhanced grip
• Swappable D-Pad – Faceted, separated directional pad
• 4 Rear Paddles – Removable with different shapes/lengths
• App for Button Mapping – Reassign any button/stick functions
• Hair Trigger Locks – Shorten trigger pull for faster firing
• Rubberized Grips – Wraparound texture for comfort & control
• Carrying Case – For transport & storage of components

This level of physical and software customization was unparalleled. The Elite 1 established the precedent for pro-level controllers centered on customization and quality.

What‘s Improved in the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2

Building on the strong foundation of the Elite 1, the Series 2 controller added even more customization along with design upgrades:

• Adjustable-Tension Thumbsticks – Fine tune exactly how tight/loose the sticks feel
• New Shorter Hair Trigger Locks – For reduced travel distance before firing
• Bluetooth Connectivity – Connect wirelessly to PCs and mobile devices
• Rechargable Integrated Battery – Up to 40 hours per charge; USB-C charging
• Rubberized Grips Improved – New wrap-around texture and material
• Charging Dock, Case & Cable – For elegant charging and transport

While the Elite 1 already offered excellent quality and customization, the Series 2 improves upon it in almost every area. The new adjustable tension thumbsticks in particular really take customization to the next level.

Physical Dimensions and Weight

Both controllers share an almost identical physical design and layout. But there are some subtle differences in size, weight and materials used:

Elite Series 1

• Length: 7.6 inches
• Width: 4.6 inches
• Height: 2.6 inches
• Weight: 348 grams

Elite Series 2

• Length: 7.7 inches
• Width: 4.7 inches
• Height: 2.6 inches
• Weight: 345 grams

They are close to identical in size. The Elite 2 shaves off a few grams of weight, likely due to more extensive use of lightweight composites in its construction.

Build Quality and Materials

Given their premium branding and pricing, expectations are high for the build quality and materials used in the Elite controllers. Both deliver a construction that feels solid and durable.

Some key material choices:

• Thumbsticks – Reinforced metal shafts under the rubber grip cap
• Directional Pad – Metal underlying the plastic pad for responsiveness
• Triggers/Bumpers – Metal levers covered in textured plastic
• Front Shell – Plastic; soft touch matte finish
• Back Grips – Rubberized textured plastic for comfort and control

The Series 2 uses higher quality plastics in its front shell for greater durability. And the rubberized grips wrap further around the controller for more coverage and improved comfort.

Both instill confidence in being able to withstand regular gaming use – but delicate handling is still advised given their premium pricing.

Size/Weight Comparison

Spec	Elite Series 1	Elite Series 2
Length	7.6 inches	7.7 inches
Width	4.6 inches	4.7 inches
Height	2.6 inches	2.6 inches
Weight	348 grams	345 grams

Battery Life

One major difference is the battery system used in each controller:

• Elite Series 1 – Relies on AA batteries only; around 30 hours life. No integrated rechargeable cell.

• Elite Series 2 – Integrated rechargeable lithium ion cell; up to 40 hours life per charge. Charges via USB-C.

Having an integrated battery makes keeping the Elite 2 powered much more convenient. You don‘t have to deal with swapping AA batteries or managing a charging kit.

Connectivity and Latency

The Elite 1 connects via a standard Xbox wireless protocol using a proprietary 2.4GHz signal. This provides fast, low latency connections to an Xbox One. But it lacks Bluetooth and wired USB connectivity.

The Elite 2 brings the controller more up to date with:

• Bluetooth – Allows wireless use with PCs/mobile
• USB-C – Wired connection option
• Proprietary Wireless – Same fast Xbox wireless protocol

Input lag is extremely low on both controllers when used wired or on proprietary wireless – around 3-5ms. Bluetooth sees slightly higher lag around 12-15ms.

Customization Options

A major appeal of the Elite controllers is the range of customization offered through interchangeable components and software remapping:

Interchangeable Parts

• Thumbsticks – Multiple heights & shapes
• D-pad – Standard or faceted options
• Paddles – Varying lengths and shapes

App Software Customization

• Button mapping – Reassign any functions
• Thumbstick curves – Fine tune response
• Paddle control – Program paddle assignments
• Hair trigger range – Set slider for fast fire

The customization app provides complete and intuitive control over the controller‘s operation. Combined with the swappable physical parts, you can precisely tailor it to your needs.

Adjustable Tension Thumbsticks

This is the Elite 2‘s standout new feature. Each thumbstick has an adjustment dial allowing you to set just the right tension level for your play style:

• Settings range from 1 (loose) to 9 (tight)
• Find the perfect balance of precision vs reaction time
• Tighter settings work well for shooters needing accuracy
• Looser settings suit games demanding fast flick motions

This tuning of the exact physical resistance takes customization to the next level. It‘s an innovative addition that competitive players are praising.

Profile Switching

Both controllers allow you to save multiple control profiles and switch between them on the fly. This enables you to tailor controls and sensitivities for different games and swap configurations instantly.

For example, you could have profiles set up specifically for:

• First person shooters
• Racing games
• Fighting games
• MOBA titles

Profiles switch seamlessly without menus for true custom controls across all your games.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Ergonomics and comfort are excellent on both Elite controllers thanks to:

• Textured rubberized grips
• Contoured shape fitting natural hand position
• Thumbstick indentations for grip and precision

The grip texture in particular stands out – it feels very secure in hand even during intense gaming moments. The Series 2 improves on this with grips wrapping further around the controller.

Size and weight are very similar between them, so they feel comparable in hand. But the new materials and grip coverage give Series 2 a slight ergonomic edge.

User Feedback on Comfort

In user reviews and discussions, some consistent feedback on comfort emerges:

• "Feels great for long sessions" – Rubberized texture prevents hand strain

• "Sticks are tight and responsive" – Very precise control response

• "Paddles feel intuitive" – Easy to integrate paddle moves into play after practice

• "Well balanced weight" – Light enough for comfort; hefty enough to feel premium

Both score very well in ergonomics – critical for a high-end controller. The Elite 2 gains an edge with its enhanced grip coverage.

Quality Control Concerns

One issue flagged by some original Elite owners is a tendency for the thumbsticks to develop "stick drift". This is where the sticks register input even when not being touched.

There are multiple potential causes – damage from drops or dirt ingress weakening the stick box sensors. But some users experienced it straight out of the box.

Microsoft did extend the warranty to account for these issues. But stick drift remains a concern on both models for longevity and reliability. Although many owners report no issues after years of heavy use.

Teardown Insights

Looking inside these controllers reveals care and attention lavished on their internal design. iFixit have conducted complete teardowns providing some interesting insights:

• Modular construction – Many components screw in allowing repairs/swaps
• Flexible ribbons – Connect boards for reliability
• Elaborate cooling – Graphite shielding prevents overheating
• Reinforced soldering – Robust connections avoid cracks or breaks

While obviously not user serviceable, the internal design indicates careful quality control and engineering.

Accessories and Extras

A range of accessories and extras are available for the Elite controllers including:

• Cases – For protection during transport
• Charging stands – Elegant charging solution
• Charging docks – Charge controller and spare battery pack
• Thumbstick sets – Packs of replacement sticks
• paddle sets – Get additional paddle size and shape options
• Skin kits – Customize look with skins and decals

First party Microsoft accessories provide the best match and compatibility. But third party options are also available, often at more affordable pricing.

Bundles including cases and extra components are a popular way to get a complete Elite controller package.

Price and Value Comparison

A significant point of difference between the controllers is pricing:

• Elite Series 1 – Original MSRP of $149.99

• Elite Series 2 – MSRP of $179.99

Given a ~4 year gap between releases, the Elite 2‘s higher pricing is somewhat justified by the upgrades offered. However it is still undeniably a premium investment.

Value depends largely on your usage:

• For competitive play, the customization and quality is well worth it
• For more casual players, the cost is harder to justify

There are occasional bundle deals and sales making them more affordable. Overall though, expect to pay a premium – these are premium controllers after all.

Alternatives from Scuf, Razer and PowerA

For those seeking customizable pro controllers, there are alternatives from third party brands:

Scuf Instinct Pro

• Interchangeable thumbsticks & paddles
• trigger stops
• excellent ergonomics
• $159.99 MSRP

Razer Wolverine Ultimate

• Mecha-tactile button triggers
• extra buttons on face
• chroma RGB lighting
• $159.99 MSRP

PowerA Fusion Pro 2

• Modular back paddles
• mappable buttons
• as low as $85 sales price

These offer many pro-level features at lower prices than the Elite 2. They are missing some premium touches but deliver great customization.

For those on a budget, they provide an affordable Elite-like experience for dedicated competitive play. But expect a slight compromise in build quality from Microsoft‘s first party premium offering.

My Impressions After Extensive Use

Having used both Elite controllers over countless hours of gaming across many titles, here are my key impressions:

• The ergonomics and grip are excellent – my hands never feel fatigued
• Build quality is clearly a tier above standard controllers
• Customization options let me optimize for any game
• Paddles feel intuitive once you practice and build muscle memory
• The adjustable tension sticks deliver incredible fine tuning
• They upped my performance and consistency noticeably

If you have the budget, I firmly believe investing in an Elite controller will give you a competitive edge and tangible improvement for serious gaming. They are pricey, but deliver a pro-level experience that standard controllers simply can‘t match.

Summary – Which Controller is Right for You?

So which Elite controller comes out on top? Here is a quick 2-paragraph summary:

The Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 represents the pinnacle of premium controller engineering and innovation. For hardcore gamers chasing every competitive advantage, and wanting the latest technology and customization, the Series 2 is absolutely worth the upgrade.

That said, the original Elite 1 still holds up very well several years from launch. For more casual players who don‘t need every new feature and customization, snagging one at a bargain price point can be amazing value. It still outclasses any standard controller.

At the end of the day, if budget allows, I recommend grabbing the Elite 2 for the best overall experience. But you can‘t go wrong with either Elite controller for a premium pro-level gaming controller that will give you an edge over the competition.