You can now pre-order the Xbox Elite Wireless Series 2 Core controller

(Image credit: Future)

Microsoft's new Xbox Elite Series 2 Core controller pre-orders are now live, which means you can already get your name down for the next generation Xbox Series X controller. The $129.99 / £114.99 gamepad will be released on September 21, but we're seeing pre-orders available at Amazon and Microsoft right now.

The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core (seriously, that's the full name) comes in $50 / £45 cheaper than the fully fledged Elite Series 2 controller. What are you sacrificing to pick up that cheaper gamepad? Not much.

That depends on how you look at it. The new Elite Series 2 Core offers the same customization opportunities as the main flagship. However, you won't find any of the additional paddles, thumbsticks, or directional pad accessories in the box here. Instead, this is a controller for anyone after a high-end gamepad, and who may tinker with some of the settings further down the line.

You'll find both US and UK Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 Core pre-order options just below, but we're also rounding up more of the best Xbox One controllers further down the page.

Pre-order the Xbox Elite Wireless Series 2 Core

Xbox Elite Series 2 vs. Series 2 Core

Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller

Adjustable tension thumbsticks
40 hour battery life
3 custom profiles
Custom button mapping
PC compatible
Additional thumbsticks / paddles / D-Pad included

Xbox Elite Series 2 Controller Core

Adjustable tension thumbsticks
40 hour battery life
3 custom profiles
Custom button mapping
PC compatible

Of course, cheap Xbox controllers also make some of the best PC controllers on the market. However, we're also rounding up all the best Xbox steering wheels for even more buttons.

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Managing Editor of Hardware at GamesRadar+, I originally landed in hardware at our sister site TechRadar before moving over to GamesRadar. In between, I've written for Tom’s Guide, Wireframe, The Indie Game Website and That Video Game Blog, covering everything from the PS5 launch to the Apple Pencil. Now, i'm focused on Nintendo Switch, gaming laptops (and the keyboards, headsets and mice that come with them), PS5, and trying to find the perfect projector.