Here’s a bit of an unconventional twist for you. Usually, you’d expect recommendations on great deals, but today, I’m advising against a product that’s actually discounted. Strange, right?
So, this is about the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2. As you might have noticed, it’s currently sporting a 17% discount on Amazon. But hold your horses—I’m suggesting you skip this one. While I’m gearing up to update our detailed review on the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 in the coming weeks, I felt compelled to give you a heads-up if you’re on the hunt for top-tier Xbox accessories.
Now, let’s get into why people usually gravitate toward the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2—it boasts a slew of premium features. The charging dock is top-notch, the battery life is remarkable, and the back paddles can give you a decisive edge. Plus, the level of customization is nothing short of spectacular. However, here’s the rub: I’ve owned three of these controllers, and they’ve all failed me, thanks to my Elden Ring addiction. Both my controller at my parent’s and my main one have succumbed to the same fate—the right bumper gave up, and stick drift made certain games like STALKER 2 an exercise in frustration. To add insult to injury, it seems Microsoft isn’t offering repairs for these in some regions, hinting that they might be gearing up for a new release.
That said, there’s a controller you should definitely consider instead. It’s not on sale right now, but trust me, the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is worth every penny.
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#### Why the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro Tops the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2
Now, in a detailed article I wrote, I dove deep into why the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is a standout choice compared to its Xbox counterpart, and it primarily comes down to durability. Razer’s own switches power the V3 Pro, and having been in the peripherals game with mice and keyboards, they bring a level of durability that the Elite Series 2 just can’t match. The V3 Pro might be relatively new, but the clicky, tactile feel of its buttons and triggers gives me confidence they won’t break down like the Elite Series 2s have.
The Series 2 isn’t new to durability issues; I faced similar problems with the first Elite Controller, especially with the grips peeling off. Now, widespread reports online confirm the Series 2 is notorious for a faulty right bumper. Though not impossible to fix, it does require special tools and can be quite the hassle.
The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro competes well with the Elite Series 2 in almost every aspect. It features adjustable trigger locks, profiles that you can set up and fine-tune, and even includes Chroma lighting and back paddles. For competitive gaming, the paddles are a game-changer since they let you perform actions like jumping and reloading without ever moving your thumbs off the sticks.
The Elite Controller Series 2 does score points in terms of modularity. It offers an array of adjustable parts and sticks, and its charging dock is arguably the industry’s best. The battery life is a beast, pretty much endless. By comparison, the Wolverine V3 Pro has respectable all-day battery life, but remember to plug it in after playing. Razer’s track record with batteries isn’t stellar, and while it’s hard to predict without a time machine, my Razer mice now need daily charging after a year.
Still, I’d pick a controller needing frequent charges over one with malfunctioning bumpers any day—something that seems sadly inevitable with the Elite Series 2. Even my standard and custom Xbox Design Lab Series 2 models succumbed to the same issues.
Plus, getting your Elite Series 2 repaired through Microsoft is no longer an option, at least for me in Europe. When looking into a repair, I was greeted with a “service not available in your area” message, and if it’s anything like this in other regions, it’s pretty discouraging.
In essence, when considering Black Friday or Cyber Monday buys, even without a discount, opt for the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro. It’s currently the best Xbox controller out there, offering a slightly lower price point than the Elite Series 2 bundle with the dock. The wired Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition is even more affordable.
### When is Black Friday?
Mark your calendars for November 29, 2024, as that’s when Black Friday kicks off. But don’t wait too long—retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Walmart are already offering early discounts on a wide range of products. It’s wise to keep an eye out for early deals, especially on items you’ve wishlisted, as they might sell out quickly.
### When is Cyber Monday?
Once Black Friday wraps up, Cyber Monday follows closely on December 2, 2024. This event is worth your attention for potential exclusive deals that weren’t available before, and perhaps even better discounts than Black Friday. Some Cyber Monday deals might even extend beyond the day, so keep watch for any last-minute savings.
