Incredibly, it's now been six years since the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 was first released, and we've been waiting all that time for a follow-up that's just never arrived. So, what actually happened to the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3?
There were rumours a few years ago that suggested Microsoft might be working on an Xbox Elite Controller Series 3, but nothing ever materialised. In fact, they actually ended up releasing a cheaper version of the Elite Series 2 instead, branding it as something called the "Core" and taking away a few of its features in the process.
The Core version was basically intended to provide the "essential" features of the controller as an alternative:
We've really not heard much at all about an Xbox Elite Controller Series 3 in recent years, and it might be that Microsoft is more interested on building the next generation Xbox controller instead - potentially as part of the next Xbox console.
There's a lot more competition these days too, as it seems like every third-party manufacturer out there is making a "Pro" version of their controllers - the likes of Turtle Beach, PowerA, 8BitDo and Thrustmaster are all amongst them.
Still, we know some Xbox fans would absolutely love to pick up a Series 3 Elite Controller, so here's hoping Microsoft is planning something for the next few years in secret. Would you buy one? We're keen to hear from you!
Do you want to see an Xbox Elite Controller Series 3? Let us know down in the comments section.
Comments 11
It’s looking like they will wait for the next gen console and make sure it has all the tech inside the box to take advantage of the updated controllers, both standard and Elite. Looking forward to both. I say it all the time i am a huge Xbox guy cause of the controller. It fit’s my hands like a glove and i am to the point i refuse to play on any controller that isn’t off set sticks.
I've been holding out on replacing my elite 2 hoping the 3 was coming soon. But at this point I can't see it coming before the next console
I love the Elite Series 2. But man, durability is the worst of any controller I’ve ever had!! And that goes for both series 1 and 2… I’ve bought two series 1, one series 2 and one Series 2 Core. Only the latest bought, the Core, is still working as intended. But I notice a trigger sounding squeaky sometimes, and that the sticks are getting a little looser. And it’s less than a year old.
And I’m careful with my controllers. It’s a real shame the actual build quality is so bad (feels superbly built though in your hands).
Same goes for regular Series S/X controllers (but amazingly enough it’s like the Elite’s are worse off!! Considering their price ffs..).
And the same goes for the PS5 Dual Sense by the way (stick drift mostly there, while I’ve had more issues with buttons on the Xbox controllers, except a Series S/X controller that got stick drift and a faulty RB within 6 months…).
A shame the quality is piss..
Weren't they also supposedly coming out with a new standard controller with haptic features as well?
Hey Fraser, I saw this article about Xbox and Asus making the handheld together on another site. Was going to send via the news tips section but can't find it, hope it's okay here: https://rogallylife.com/2025/03/12/microsoft-asus-handheld-project-kennan/
@Kilamanjaro Hey, thank you! We've already covered it
https://www.purexbox.com/news/2025/03/report-xbox-handheld-for-2025-being-made-by-asus-will-feature-console-like-interface
https://www.purexbox.com/news/2025/03/xbox-2025-handheld-release-date-price-and-other-key-details-teased-in-latest-report
Any Elite 3 has to have hall effect sensors on the sticks and triggers.
Have went 3rd party since my Elite 2 developed stick drift and won't come back until they stop effectively using parts that give the controller a short expiry date.
It's a calculated rip-off with both MS and Sony using it as a cash cow.
The build quality is atrocious, they still haven’t solved the rubber grips coming off on the newer models, same issue as the first model.
There is no point making an elite 3 if they don't upgrade the normal controller first...
Hall effect sensors & wireless is all I ever want or need from a controller. Sadly most "Pro" controllers come with a bunch of other crap & cost stupid prices.
I'd just like any controller to stay connected with some consistency. I've tried everything, but everything disconnects regularly during gaming. Weirdly, put the Xbox in 120hz output and it happens pretty much every 10 seconds. It's making want to just ignore the machine as I hate leads trailing across the floor with the inevitable trips.
If an elite 3 stayed connected I'd pay for one, even though I'm not a fan of the layout!
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