The Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 has several key differences from the Series 2, including improved ergonomics, longer battery life, and enhanced customization options.
| Series 3 | Series 2 |
| Updated Gyroscope and Accelerometer | — |
| More tactile and customizable paddles | — |
| Improved grip texture on the back | — |
| Battery life up to 40 hours | Battery life up to 30 hours |
| More customization with Xbox Accessories app | — |
| Can connect to Windows 10 PC via Bluetooth | — |
| Slightly heavier | Lighter |
| Higher price | Lower price |
Overall, the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 is the ultimate choice for gaming enthusiasts who demand the best hardware and customization options.
Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 vs 2
When looking at the physical changes between the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 and 2, it is important to note that there are several differences in design and construction. The Elite Series 3 controller has a new Share button, rubberized grips, grip-lock thumbsticks, three-stage trigger locks, optimized bumpers and paddles, and adjustable tension thumbsticks. All of these features offer a significant improvement over the controller’s predecessor. Let’s explore these differences further.
Design Changes
The Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 has undergone design changes, tweaking the physical features to amp up the gaming experience. Here are the key differences between the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 and 2:
| Ergonomics | Customization | Connectivity | Battery | Accessories |
| The Series 3 has a refined ergonomic design with a grippy texture that fits comfortably in the hands. | The Series 3 has a redesigned profile customization system that allows for more personalization with interchangeable thumbsticks and paddle shapes. | The Series 3 has upgraded wireless and Bluetooth functionality, allowing for faster and more stable connections with your Xbox or PC. | The Series 3 has an improved battery with up to 40 hours of use between charges. | The Series 3 comes with a charging dock and a carrying case, providing added convenience and protection for your controller. |
These design changes enhance gameplay, making the Series 3 a worthy upgrade for avid gamers seeking better control and customization options.
Matte Finish vs Glossy Finish
Matte finish and glossy finish are two of the most common surface finishes used in products, including electronics. When comparing the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 and 2, a matte finish has been used in the former, while the latter has a glossy finish. Matte finish reduces glare and is less likely to show fingerprints or smudges, but it may be less visually appealing to some consumers. Alternatively, gloss finish offers a shiny, high-quality look but is more prone to showing smudges and fingerprints.
Ultimately, the decision between matte and glossy finish comes down to personal preference, usage, and environment. If your Xbox controllers will be exposed to bright lights or sunlight, a matte finish may be a better fit. Whereas, if you’re going for a sleek look and don’t mind a little extra maintenance, glossy finishes may be the one for you.
Rubberized Grips vs No Grips
The key difference between the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 and 2 lies in their physical changes, specifically the introduction of rubberized grips in the Series 3 model. The rubberized grips provide a more comfortable and secure grip, especially during intense gameplay sessions, and allow for better control and precision. They also help prevent the controller from slipping out of your hands or getting damaged from accidental drops.
In contrast, the second-generation Xbox Elite Controller does not feature rubberized grips, making it less comfortable to hold and use for extended periods. Additionally, the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 has a redesigned internal battery and USB-C charging, which allows for longer battery life and quicker charging times than its predecessor. It also includes Bluetooth connectivity, making it compatible with both Xbox and PC gaming setups.
Improved Performance
The Xbox Elite controllers are known for their superior build and performance compared to the regular controller. With the Series 3, Microsoft has made some improvements to make these controllers even more accessible. Let’s take a look at the key differences between the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 and Series 2 and what makes the Series 3 the superior choice.
Lower Input Latency
Lower input latency is one of the most significant improvements in the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 over Series 2, leading to enhanced gaming performance with faster response times. Input latency refers to the time it takes for a button press on the controller to register on the screen. A lower input latency means a faster response time, leading to less lag and a smoother gaming experience.
The Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 has a latency of 3ms, while the Series 2 has a latency of 7 – 9ms. This means that the Series 3 offers a significant improvement in response time, making it easier to execute complex moves and outperform competitors. Additionally, Series 3 has a more advanced processor, which further reduces input latency and ensures more seamless performance. This makes the Series 3 an ideal choice for serious gamers looking for the highest level of precision and accuracy.
Better Analog Sticks Sensitivity
The Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 boasts significant improvements in analog stick sensitivity and overall performance compared to its predecessor, the Series 2. The key differences between the two controllers are:
| 1. Tactile dot grip: | The Series 3 has added textured dot grip to the back of the controller, allowing for better grip and control. |
| 2. Reduced trigger latency: | The Series 3 features a 3-stage trigger lock design to reduce trigger latency time. |
| 3. Improved battery life: | The Series 3 offers up to 40 hours of battery life and has a USB-C port for quicker charging compared to Series 2. |
| 4. Adjustable thumbstick sensitivities: | The Series 3 has adjustable thumbstick tensions for better control and sensitivity customization. |
These differences result in smoother gameplay, better accuracy, and more precise movements. The Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 is the go-to choice for competitive gamers and those seeking a high-performance gaming experience.
New Multi-Function Buttons
The Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 comes with new multi-function buttons that significantly improve its performance compared to the Series 2. Here are the key differences between the two controllers:
| Multi-function buttons | The Series 3 includes three customizable multi-function buttons that can be programmed to do a wide range of tasks, allowing for greater control and flexibility in gameplay. |
| Adjustable tension thumbsticks | The Series 3 thumbsticks are much easier to adjust, with three different resistance levels available to customize your gaming experience. |
| Improved trigger grips and bumpers | The Series 3 trigger grips and bumpers have been revamped for better comfort, control, and durability. |
| Better battery life | The Series 3 has up to 40 hours of battery life compared to the Series 2’s 30 hours. |
| Upgraded charging dock | The Series 3 comes with an upgraded charging dock that provides a quicker and more secure charging experience. |
Enhanced Customization
When comparing the Microsoft Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 and 2, an impressive new customization feature of the Series 3 stands out. This elite controller allows you to adjust tension in thumbsticks and triggers, offering a tailor-made experience. Additionally, the Series 3 comes equipped with a carrying case and charging dock, as well as other features that offer enhanced control and user comfort. Let’s break down the differences between Series 3 and Series 2 in more detail.
More Customization Options
Enhanced Customization offer more customization options to users, enabling them to tailor their experience based on their preferences.
| This includes features such as: |
| 1. Customizable Backgrounds – Users can upload their own custom background image, choose from a variety of pre-set options or choose a solid color. |
| 2. Advanced Font Options – Users can choose from a wide range of fonts and adjust the color, size, and spacing of text to suit their needs. |
| 3. Logo Upload – Users can upload their own logo, which can be used across the site or for specific pages. |
| 4. Customizable Menus – Users have the flexibility to create their own menus and sub-menus, organizing content based on their needs. |
These enhanced customizations empower users to create personalized online experiences that reflect their brand and unique style.
Multiple Profiles
Enhanced Customization through Multiple Profiles
Having multiple profiles on a single device is a smart way to customize your experience for different use cases. You can create profiles for work, personal use, or for different family members, each with its own set of apps and settings. This can significantly enhance your privacy and increase your productivity.
With the ability to switch quickly between profiles without logging in and out, each profile can have its own unique background image, ringtone, or notification sound. Furthermore, you won’t have to worry about apps or files mixing up between different profiles. This makes it easier than ever to tailor your device to your needs, ensuring a seamless and optimized experience every time, no matter if you’re working or playing games.
New Way to Change Configuration Profiles Quickly
The Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 comes with new features and improvements that set it apart from its predecessor, the Series 2. Here are some of the key differences between the two controllers:
| Profile Switching | Enhanced Customization | Longer Battery Life | Upgraded Software |
| The Series 3 comes with a new profile switch button located on the front of the controller, making it much easier to change profiles on the fly. | These features allow players to fine-tune their controller to their preferences, giving them a competitive edge. | This means you can spend more time gaming and fewer hours worrying about recharging your controller. | This software also makes it easier to check battery life and adjust trigger settings. |
Changes to Battery and Accessories
The Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 and Elite Controller Series 2 are two gaming controllers made by Microsoft. The Series 3 brings a number of changes over the Series 2, including improved battery life and updated accessories. In this article, we’ll dive into the differences between the two controllers and see what improvements have been made.
Charging Dock Functionality
Charging dock functionality is a significant upgrade in the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3, which distinguishes it from its predecessor, the Series 2. Here are some key differences to note:
| Charging Dock | Battery Life | Accessories |
| The Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 comes with a docking station that provides a quick and easy way to charge your controller. You can charge your controller in the dock or by plugging the charging cable directly into the controller. The Series 2 controller does not come with a charging dock. | The Series 3 controller has a longer battery life than the Series 2 controller. It can last for up to 40 hours on a single charge, compared to the 30 hours of the Series 2 controller. This means you’ll have to charge your Series 3 controller less often than the Series 2 controller, which is a significant advantage. | The Series 3 controller comes with some new accessories, including a set of textured thumbsticks and a new carrying case for the controller and accessories. The Series 2 controller does not come with these accessories, which means you’ll have to purchase them separately. |
Overall, the Series 3 controller is a significant improvement over the Series 2 controller, with better battery life, additional accessories, and a convenient charging dock.
USB-C vs Micro-USB
When it comes to the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 and 2, one notable difference is the charging port. The Series 3 features a USB-C port, while the Series 2 uses a Micro-USB port.
| USB-C | Micro-USB |
| Faster charging times and faster data transfer speeds | Slower charging times and slower data transfer speeds |
| More durable and longer-lasting | Less durable and shorter-lasting |
| Less common cables | More common cables |
USB-C offers faster charging times and faster data transfer speeds than Micro-USB. This means you can charge your Series 3 controller more quickly and transfer data to and from the controller at higher speeds. USB-C is also more durable and longer-lasting than Micro-USB. Its design allows for more insertions and removals before it wears down or becomes damaged. The drawback is that USB-C cables are less common than Micro-USB cables, and you may need to purchase additional USB-C accessories to use with your controller.
Upgraded Battery Life
The Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 comes with key upgrades that significantly improve battery life compared to the Series 2. These upgrades include a rechargeable battery with an extended lifespan, a charging dock, and a USB-C charging port. The Series 3 boasts up to 40 hours of battery life, which is a significant improvement over the Series 2’s 30-hour battery life. The rechargeable battery can be charged using the included charging dock, rather than requiring disposable batteries as the Series 2 does.
The addition of a USB-C charging port on the Series 3 further simplifies the charging process. USB-C is a universal charging standard that is more efficient than older USB connections, allowing for faster charging times. These changes to the battery and accessories of the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 make it a more convenient and eco-friendly option for gamers, as well as providing an extended gaming experience.