The Xbox Elite Series 2 Core controller will finally have alternate color schemes, and you'll be able to buy them very soon.
Available starting April 11, the Core variant of the Xbox Elite Series 2 controllers will be available for purchase in bright red or bright blue color combinations. These versions of the pad are €139,99 / €124,99, which is €10 / €10 more than the standard white version.
The Core version of this Xbox Series X|S-adjacent "Pro" controller is identical to the more expensive Xbox Elite Series 2. However, it does not include extras such as interchangeable sticks, rear paddles, charging station or carrying case. Instead, you can purchase the complete component pack separately, which includes everything above for $59.99 / $54.99.
The price is about the same this way, but the Core pad is a good option if you're not too concerned with the Elite Series 2 accessories.
Sonic (and Mario) Colors
While the vibrant red and blue might seem like obvious or uninspired color choices here, at least they're more options for a controller that until now only had a standard white finish. That is if you don't want to pay extra for a custom controller skin through the Xbox Design Lab.
I like the color choices, but part of me wishes the D-pad and face buttons were black or at least a different shade of red and blue to better contrast against the controller casing. That's the case with the white Core controller, which features an off-white metallic hue to the d-pad, and I think it looks great.
Two more color options are a good start, but we expect Microsoft to plan more color combinations later. The Xbox Wireless Controller features a host of alternative color schemes, from basic primary colors to more eye-catching designs like the cosmic Lunar Shift and the funky, translucent version of Forza Horizon 5.
Ultimately though, if you're looking for the full "Pro" controller experience, I recommend buying the standard Xbox Elite Series 2 controller with all the bells and whistles. The interchangeable sticks and back paddles alone add tons of customization to your playing style, and the pad feels a bit sparse without them.