Xbox Wireless Controller (2020) evaluation: The finest yet

Microsoft has actually been making video game controllers for more than 20 years, and it’s decided on a fundamental formula. Hence, the most recent modification of the renowned Xbox controller isn’t a lot a transformation as it is a development. The 2020 Xbox Wireless Controller ships with the Xbox Series S and Series X, however it works practically also on other gadgets, and the style is discreetly enhanced from the Xbox One-era gamepad. The outcome is an outstanding, well-supported controller you need to think about no matter how you video game.

At a glimpse

Expert’s Rating

Pros

• USB-C port is much better for long-lasting assistance
• Bluetooth connection
• Refined, more tactile d-pad
• Grippy textures and slimmer body

Cons

• Rechargeable battery is not consisted of
• Share button is difficult to reach

Our Verdict

Microsoft made a currently exceptional video game controller even much better with tactical tweaks to the buttons, shape, and USB port.

Price When Reviewed

8900

Best Prices Today: Xbox Wireless Controller (2020)

Xbox Wireless Controller (2020): Design and construct quality

If you’ve held an Xbox controller in the previous years, the current modification will feel familiar. Microsoft modified the geometry of the controller a bit, so devices you had for older controllers might not fit completely. This, together with a couple of millimeters slashed off of the triggers and shoulder buttons provides the 2020 revitalize a less large body.

Ryan Whitwam

The grips are smooth on the top, however the underside and the triggers have a subtle dot texture to make it more safe and secure, even if your hands get sweaty in the middle of an extreme video gaming session. The bottom edge sports the basic Xbox growth port, along with an earphone jack. On the top, we see among the most crucial modifications: a USB-C port to change the micro USB on older controllers. This more recent requirement is more long lasting and makes linking to non-Xbox hardware simpler. I likewise praise Microsoft for consisting of a long eight-foot USB-A-to-C cable television with the controller.

The thumbsticks are unbalanced, with the left stick greater than the. They both have concave tops, whereas the second-gen Xbox Elite Controller has one convex stick that’s much better for great intending. The d-pad is listed below the left stick, and the ABXY button cluster is above the best stick. The d-pad has actually gotten a long-overdue overhaul with this system. The control is now dish-shaped with a raised area in each of the primary instructions, making it simpler to strike diagonal instructions. On the other hand, the rim gathers skin oils and dust, needing regular cleansing to keep it looking neat.

Ryan Whitwam

All these buttons, together with the bumpers and sets off, are simple to push without moving your grip, however there are some lesser-used controls organized towards the middle. The conventional view, menu, and Xbox/power button are all present, however the 2020 modification includes a share button.

The battery door is on the back, and this compartment is empty out of package. It still works on AA batteries, however there’s a rechargeable battery pack readily available for $25, which is a substantial portion of the controller’s $60 cost. With that device, you can utilize the USB-C port to charge the gadget. Otherwise, it’s just for wired connection. Sony’s DualSense, on the other hand, has an integrated rechargeable battery.

Xbox Wireless Controller (2020): Features and hands-on experience

Microsoft states that the gamepad is quicker than all its previous versions when linked to a Series X or S console thanks to a function called “Dynamic Latency Input.” This system surveys the controller regularly to transfer your presses without hold-up. Even when linked to other gadgets over Bluetooth, we discovered the controller to be completely responsive.

The share button is quite useful, if you care to reach over to it in the dead center of the gamepad. On the Xbox, a single tap takes a screenshot and a long-press records a 15- 2nd video. On Windows 11, it works the very same, however that’s a fairly brand-new advancement. At launch, Windows 10 didn’t comprehend the button at all. When it comes to the Xbox button, Windows links that to the Game Bar, that includes controls for screen capture, efficiency tracking, audio, and more.

You will not discover any sophisticated innovation in the triggers– Microsoft appears to have actually upped the resistance a touch, which can make it much easier to discover the sweet area in video games that utilize the trigger as a throttle, however it can be fatiguing to hold them down for extended periods. Sony has Microsoft beat here; its DualSense controllers can differ the quantity of resistance to increase gameplay immersion. The Xbox controller’s thumbsticks have simply the best resistance. They’re accurate, smooth, and they snap back to center rapidly without any bounce.

Ryan Whitwam

The brand-new “hybrid” d-pad isn’t as intricate as the bigger circular pad on the Elite design, however it’s still a welcome enhancement over older designs. It’s a huge enhancement for video games (like fighters) that rely greatly on the d-pad. The mushiness of the cross-style d-pad is gone, however that tactility includes a little bit of sound. The exact same high tactility finishes to the other buttons– there’s never ever any concern if you’ve pushed a button hard enough for it to sign up, however it’s loud A brand-new controller with unmashed buttons is bound to be a bit more clicky, however even comparing the upgraded Xbox Wireless Controller to a gently utilized 2016 alternative, the brand-new style is visibly louder. If you’re video gaming around others, they may get frustrated with the more audible clicking.

Xbox Wireless Controller (2020): Compatibility

Ryan Whitwam

Naturally, the controller introduced along with the Series X and S and is created to work completely with those consoles. It works with computer systems, phones, and other devices over Bluetooth. That suggests you will not get a USB dongle in package– this system can link straight to a plethora of gadgets.

To couple with brand-new gadgets over Bluetooth, merely long-press the set button beside the USB-C and pick it on your phone or PC. You can likewise double-tap that button to move the controller back to your Xbox (if you have one). If you do not wish to trouble with Bluetooth, the sleek brand-new USB-C port lets you wire the controller to your PC, and it must deal with any spec-compliant USB-C cable television– we effectively checked it with both A-to-C and C-to-C cable televisions.

Windows has integrated assistance for the Xbox controller, so there’s no setup or apps required. You can likewise couple with macOS to play video games, however it will not have the exact same system-level combinations from Windows like the Game Bar, audio output, or firmware upgrade assistance.

Android and iOS included assistance for Xbox controllers numerous variations back, so this is likewise an uncomplicated experience over Bluetooth. Microsoft’s assistance page declares that Android phones can not link to the controller over USB, however we can verify that does operate in Android12 You do not even require batteries in the controller, making this a beneficial function for on-the-go video gaming.

Conclusion: Buy it

The Xbox Controller with USB-C seems like a strong enhancement over older variations. The enhanced d-pad, slimmer chassis, and USB-C port are the huge modifications here, and they all assist to enhance the experience. Oh, and there’s a share button. Yes, the 2020 Xbox controller plays it safe. We would have liked to see Microsoft press the hardware even more with functions like an incorporated rechargeable battery and microphone– both functions that are offered on the DualSense 5.

Even if you’re not a console player, the Xbox controller might be simply what you desire. With Bluetooth connection, it’s a breeze to set it up with a PC or phone. If your batteries get low, you can utilize the brand-new USB-C port to link the old-fashioned method, too. When you do get linked, you’ll discover the Xbox controller is supported completely in Windows, and it works nearly too on mobile phones.

You get a lot for the $60 asking cost, which makes the $180 Elite controller a much harder sell. Unless you require those additional paddle buttons, get the basic cordless controller.