Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller 2016 Release Date, Price and Specs – CNET

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While Microsoft lead with the already-leaked Xbox One S console, the new look Xbox Wireless Controller also raised a few eyebrows at the Microsoft press conference at E3 2016.

While Microsoft hyped the customisation — over 8 million different ways of making it all your own, apparently. — there’s a lot of difference to be found.

Bluetooth: Currently gamers who want to use a controller with their PC have to get a dongle, and quite frankly it can become a hassle. But this long setup process is no more, as the updated Wireless Controller has Bluetooth connectivity built in. Not only will this let you easily connect the controller to the Xbox One S, but it can connect your PC and many other devices. By going with Bluetooth you get an increased range of connectivity as well.

Nic Healey/CNET

Textured grip: The new controller has a subtly streamlined design, with a textured grip on the rear. It certainly doesn’t have the premium feel of the Xbox Elite Controller, but it also doesn’t have the price tag either: it’s starting at $79.99 (Australian and UK pricing still undetermined) but it’ll go up based on the customisation you want. It’s light, but not so much so that it feels tacky and cheap. The thumbstick action is smooth, and the textured areas are actually quite noticeable and very welcome.

Headphone jack: The new controller also has a 3.5mm jack so you can plug your headphones straight in. The original controller needed an adapter, so that’s a nice touch thanks to the Bluetooth.

Nic Healey/CNET

The One S will ship with one of the new Wireless controllers but you can get your own separately starting late August. The Design Lab customisation, sadly, is US and Canada only to start off with but will expand out to new regions soon after, according to Microsoft.

More from E3

• Xbox One S official: 40 percent slimmer, $299 this August
• Ubisoft E3 2016 press conference: Watch live today, 1 p.m. PT/4 p.m. ET
• Everything Microsoft announced at E3 2016
• E3 2016: Complete coverage on GameSpot
• E3 2016: Complete coverage on CNET