Although there's been a lot of buzz (and rightfully so) around the new Dualsense PS5 controller, Microsoft decided to take a very different approach from Sony; meaningful, iterative improvements to an already solid base. The first version I ever used, model 1697, was the best controller I had ever used up to that point. It was the primary reason I switched from my XB360, as I was unable to pair it with the console, but the controller was too good to go back. Clicky, responsive buttons, lighter weight, easily accessible battery door, good battery life, solid accuracy and excellent haptic feedback in the triggers made me fall in love. Jump to the next model, the 1708, and all those things remained, but there was a different finish and now the awesome addition of Bluetooth. This has been the controller I've used on console and PC for the better part of 5 straight years. I've even tried to pair it with a couple Sony systems to experience some of the better games exclusive to that platform (I was unsuccessful BTW). Now, introduce this model, the 1914, and I feel like it's 2 steps forward and a step backwards. The D-Pad is outrageously good and responsive, the trigger texturing gives a more involved feel, the matte finish makes it less vulnerable to oils or greases making it slippery and the battery door redesign is a very slight but meaningful touch. Even the added feature of showing the battery level on PC is a tiny detail that shows the thoughtfulness that went into crafting this. The only reason this is not a 5 is the connectivity. Full disclosure, this is primarily used with a PC in this use case, and as such, you WILL need the XBox accessories app, as I needed to apply an update fresh out the box. The Bluetooth connection on my 1708 literally never dropped out in my entire memory of use. Extremely strong, very dependable and no lag to speak of. The 1914, not so much. There's been no observable lag, and when it works, it's easily better, but the connection is very spotty. As mentioned, an update was necessary right out of the box, and performance marginally improved, but as it stands, during a 3 hr play session last night it lost connection at least 10 times, with the Xbox light blinking a few times and going solid again roughly every 20 mins or so. I tried multiple games, including very tight shooters and it's the same thing; excellent performance when it's working, a temporary drop for no more than 5 seconds, then back to working as if nothing happened. I've already gone the driver route of making sure everything is updated correctly, but this seems to be more a 1914 problem, as the 1708 has never had this problem with a console or 3 different PCs with 3 different Bluetooth adapters. Funny though, a wireless adapter is available, and is touted as the primary way to connect without a USB cable (the USB cable does work flawlessly BTW). Of course, there is a fee for this adapter, which makes me feel like this is the classic create a problem, sell the solution sort of scenario, which has soured my experience greatly here. This is a relatively new device, having only been on the market for a little over a month at the time of this writing, so it's definitely possible for this issue to be resolved, but there's currently no discount for this unit, so you're being asked the complete price for an incomplete experience for the time being. Once (if) this issue is resolved, I will absolutely change this to a 5, but right now, with the drops, it's a mediocre purchase at best, with the 1708 currently being a better option, and at a lesser price. Best of luck.
Edit: In order to have the update applied, you must FIRST connect to the PC with your USB-C and use the Xbox accessories app to update, then, most importantly, you must UNPAIR the controller if it was previously paired. If it's the first time pairing, it won't be an issue, but if you previously were paired before the update, it will not apply. After following these steps, I can confidently report all connection issues have been fixed, and there have been no Bluetooth drops to speak of. This is now a 5 star device.
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Xbox Core Controller - Carbon Black (Renewed) $48.91 & FREE Shipping. Details
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1 Year Review of the Xbox Core Wireless Controller
Bryant Lowry
Reviews with images
Best controller I've ever owned.
I've been gaming since 1980 on my brother's Intellivision. Since then I have either owned or sampled every single home gaming machine's controllers over the past 4 decades. When Xbox came out with their original design, pre S series, it was a step in the right direction. When they replaced it with the S version they produced the most perfect gaming controller in existence. Over the years it hasn't changed much and that's a good thing. It doesn't need to be changed. This controller is an extension of that. Perfection in blue. I've had 0 problems with it and it's fantastic.Additionally, I've found that this controller has more features than I realized. While playing Forza, the trigger buttons started vibrating and giving feedback. I was shocked! I had no idea that it could do that. So, even now, I'm being totally surprised by a gaming controller's features.
