Is Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 part of Xbox Design Lab?

Xbox Elite Series 2
Xbox Elite Series 2 (Image credit: Windows Central)

Is Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 part of Xbox Design Lab?

What is Xbox Design Lab, anyway?

Xbox Design Lab is a special part of the Microsoft Store where you can customize an Xbox One Wireless Controller's visual appearance extensively by changing the pattern of its skin, as well as the colors of various parts of the controller. On top of that, some of the pieces, such as the triggers, can be configured to be metallic instead of the standard Xbox hard plastic. As a result of the customization options, these controllers can get pretty expensive, but Xbox Design Lab is nevertheless a lovely way to add personal flavor to your gaming gear.

Why get the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2?

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 (Image credit: Windows Central)

If you play games competitively or you just want a controller with a lot of different textural options, the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 will be just what you're looking for. Compared to the original Elite Controller, this new one has several improvements, such as better plastics and hinges, rubber grips that use adhesive (this is to counteract the problems the original had with durability), and tension control for thumbsticks that allow you to tweak your aiming style beyond in-game settings. On top of this, the controller has Bluetooth connectivity for use with Project xCloud, and also a very large battery life of 40 hours on a full charge. Finally, all the benefits that the first Elite Controller had make a return with this one. These benefits include the wide selection of different D-Pads, thumbsticks, and buttons that you can swap out whenever you want, as well as lockable triggers and paddle buttons on the back of the controller. The controller is far from cheap, but if you want top-notch quality, this controller has everything you could ever want.

Brendan Lowry

Brendan Lowry is a Windows Central writer and Oakland University graduate with a burning passion for video games, of which he's been an avid fan since childhood. You'll find him doing reviews, editorials, and general coverage on everything Xbox and PC. Follow him on Twitter.