As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
With the release of the Xbox One S, some changes have been made to the Xbox One controller. So what’s the difference between the two? Let’s take a look.
Introduction
The Xbox One S controller is the best gaming controller available today. It’s well-made, feels great in hand, and has all the features that gamers have come to expect from a high-end gamepad. However, it’s not perfect. There are a few key differences between the Xbox One S controller and the standard Xbox One controller that you should be aware of before you make your purchase.
The first difference is in the size and weight of the two controllers. The Xbox One S controller is about 10% smaller than the standard Xbox One controller, and it weighs about 20% less. This makes it a bit easier to hold for extended periods and makes it feel a bit more nimble in your hands.
The second difference is in the Trigger buttons (RT and LT). The trigger buttons on the Xbox One S controller are pressure-sensitive, meaning that they will register different levels of pressure depending on how hard you press them. This can be useful for certain games that require different degrees of trigger pressure, but it’s not a feature that all games make use of.
The third difference is in the placement of the Bluetooth radio antennae. The antennae on the standard Xbox One controller are placed on either side of the battery pack. The Xbox One S controller is placed on either side of the USB port. This change was made to improve Bluetooth stability and range when using wireless headphones or other accessories.
Finally, there’s a subtle difference in how Microsoft branded its controllers. The standard Xbox One controller has “X” branding on both grips, while the Xbox One S controller only has “X” branding on one grip. This is a purely cosmetic change, but it’s worth noting nonetheless.
The difference in design
The original Xbox One controller was criticized for its bulkiness, and so Microsoft designed the Xbox One S controller to be more streamlined. The most noticeable difference is in the battery compartment size – it’s been reduced by 40%.
The grips on the underside of the controller are also different. On the Xbox One S controller, they’re more textured and have a ridge running down the middle, while the grips on the original Xbox One controller are smoother.
There are also a few cosmetic changes:
-The “Start” and “Back” buttons are now glossy black instead of matte plastic.
-The “Xbox logo” button is now plastic instead of metal.
-The D-Pad has been updated to a new four-way design.
The difference in function
The biggest difference between the two Xbox One controllers is that the Xbox One S controller has Bluetooth functionality, whereas the Xbox One controller does not. The Bluetooth functionality allows you to connect the controller to your PC without the need for an adapter. The Xbox One S controller also has a 3.5mm audio jack, which allows you to plug in a headset directly to the controller.
The only other major difference between the two controllers is the price. The Xbox One S controller is typically about $10 more expensive than the Xbox One controller.
The difference in price
The biggest difference between the Xbox One and the Xbox One S controller is the price. The Xbox One controller is typically around $40, while the Xbox One S controller is typically around $60. In terms of features, the main difference between the two controllers is that the Xbox One S controller has Bluetooth connectivity, while the Xbox One controller does not.
The difference in the gaming experience
The big differentiating factor for the Xbox One S controller is the inclusion of Bluetooth connectivity. With Bluetooth, you can use the controller wirelessly with compatible Bluetooth devices, including PCs, laptops, and mobile phones. The Xbox One controller can only be used with the Xbox One console and accessories.
Another difference between the two controllers is the design. The Xbox One S controller has a sleeker look and feels than the Xbox One controller. The Xbox One controller also has a 3.5 mm audio jack, so you can plug in headphones or a headset directly into the controller, while the Xbox One S controller does not have this feature.
Which one should you buy?
The Xbox One S controller has some redesigned components and a few new features that aren’t found on the original Xbox One controller. Perhaps the most immediately noticeable change is the new textured grips. The controller also now sports a Bluetooth low-energy connection, which allows it to connect to devices like PCs without the need for an adapter.
Another big change is the addition of an infrared LED. This enables the controller to be used with Microsoft’s new Kinect-less Xbox One S and Windows 10’s upcoming “Universal Windows Platform” apps. The LED can also be used to determine player identification in games that support it. The controller’s battery life has also been increased, from 30 hours on the original controller to 40 hours on the S model.
In addition to those changes, Microsoft has also made some tweaks to the overall design of the controller. The company has moved one of the shoulder buttons (the left one, specifically) down closer to the grip, which should make it easier to reach. The D-pad has also been redesigned and now looks more like a traditional cross than the concave shape found on the original controller.
Conclusion
The main difference between the Xbox One and Xbox One S controllers is the latter’s improved design, particularly in terms of its textured grips and Bluetooth support. The Xbox One S controller also offers a few other features that the regular Xbox One controller doesn’t have, such as a built-in speaker and greater vibration feedback. However, the regular Xbox One controller is still a perfectly fine option if you don’t need those extra features.
Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc, or its affiliates.
