Xbox Elite Series 3 controller leaks and appears to offer better analogue sticks, advanced haptics, d-pad choices and more

The unannounced, but widely circulated, Xbox Elite Series 3 controller has once again been leaked, revealing a range of potential enhancements. The leaked information surfaced on the Xbox Design Lab website, a platform where customers can create and order custom controller designs. According to the leak, the controller will likely feature Hall Effect and TMR (Tunnel Magnetoresistance) sticks, which offer improved performance compared to traditional analog sticks.

These magnetic-based analog sticks eliminate physical wear and stick drift, providing a smoother and more reliable user experience.

Additionally, the leaked details suggest that the Elite Series 3 may include advanced haptics, a feature previously seen in the PlayStation 5's DualSense controller. This technology provides more nuanced and detailed tactile feedback to the user, enhancing the overall gaming experience. The controller also reportedly retains impulse triggers, which are already known to have their own haptics and multi-stage presses.

Other notable features mentioned in the leak include a dedicated audio scroll wheel, similar to what has been previously reported. The controller offers customization options, allowing users to replace faceplates to suit their preferences. Furthermore, the leaked information indicates that the Elite Series 3 will offer multiple d-pad choices, giving users greater flexibility in their gameplay.

Based on the leaked information, it appears that Xbox plans to release the Elite Series 3 in two main versions: a base version and a complete version. Each version will offer the same advanced haptics motor, resulting in a total of four different products. The Elite Series 3 is Xbox's premium line of controllers, specifically designed for core gamers and competitive players.

The latest iteration, the Elite Series 2 Core, was released in 2022 for £115 / $130, three years after the more expensive and feature-rich Elite Series 2, priced at £160 / $180.

Given the nature of the leak and its level of detail, it is likely that we will soon receive an official announcement regarding the Elite Series 3. The timing of this leak suggests that the controller may be released soon, following the recent seismic changes at Xbox overseen by new leader Asha Sharma. These changes have included significant layoffs, the migration of the Halo franchise to Activision, and the closure of the British studio Ninja Theory.