The Xbox Elite Series 3 controller could well be the upgrade we've all been waiting for when it comes to the best controllers.
If you already own the Xbox Elite Series 2, then you're fully aware of the might that Microsoft is capable of harnessing. After all, it's not only the best Xbox controller, but also one of the best PC controllers going too. That's even with PS5 controller options that work on PC, including the mighty DualSense Edge as competition.
However, you're here to find out about the Xbox Series 3 controller, and luckily for you, we've got all the latest speculations and information right here. Let's dive in...
Xbox Elite Series 3 release date speculation
While there's no official mention of an Xbox Elite Series 3 controller, that doesn't mean there's not one in the works. It tends to be that controllers get a little less lead-up and fanfare than other tech released by gaming companies; just look at Sony's DualSense Edge as a good example of that.
We were anticipating a release near the end of 2023 based on the trends, but as we're in 2024 now, that's clearly not the case. It suggests that building upon the second version of this controller is pretty hard to do, so we'd be surprised to see the Xbox Elite Series 3 before the end of 2024.
We've seen leaks suggesting a mid-generation refresh of sorts too, and that would be a good time to release a new controller. Of course, there's also a chance that we won't see a new Elite controller until the next generation of Xbox consoles, because there's simply no technological boost that would make it worthwhile.
That being said, there are some theories that the frequent drops in the price of the Elite Series 2 are foreshadowing an upcoming release, but we'd take that with a pinch of salt! But what could be different this time around? And will it be worth the wait?
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Xbox Elite Series 3 specs predictions
Of course, there is no official word on the Xbox Elite Series 3 controller specs, but we can make some informed predictions.
Alongside the inclusion of the share button that features on the newer Xbox controllers, we think we could even be looking at something fairly similar to the last iteration.
Microsoft really hit the nail on the head with their previous controllers, and it could be a case of 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it'. That means that we can expect to see the controller paddles feature again, plus the usual customisation to the thumbsticks too.
The biggest difference between the 2 and 3 is that we now exist in a post-DualSense Edge world. Sony's premium controller does a lot of things right, with incredible comfort, customisation, and other excellent features. We'd love to see this boost the Xbox Elite Series 3 controller to new heights.
When it comes to design, we'd think it highly unlikely that Microsoft will be breaking the mould anytime soon, however. The Xbox controller's only real design chance came early on from the massive Duke controller, which was then made smaller. Following that, we've only seen some mild changes to the shape, with Microsoft very much finding its fit with consumers.
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Xbox Elite Series 3 price predictions
Controllers are quite the investment nowadays, with even standard gamepads going for $60 in some cases.
The price of the Elite Series 3 will likely hit around $180 - $200 by our estimates, based on the fact that the Elite Series 2 goes for around the $179.99 mark (although it is often on sale, thankfully!)
$200 is a hefty price to pay for the inclusion of what may well be minor changes, so we're hoping this estimated price tag will match up with what we might get in terms of innovation.
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Should I wait for the Xbox Elite Series 3?
Waiting for an Xbox Elite Series 3 controller is probably not worth it. Aside from there being no sign of even an announcement of a release date, we'd also be surprised to see anything worth the higher price.
We'll be back soon with all the latest on the Xbox Elite Series 3 controller.
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