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For the final couple of recreation console generations, rechargeable lithium-ion batteries have taken over. Sony’s DualShock and DualSense controllers are each rechargeable, and the identical goes for the Nintendo Change and Change 2’s Professional controllers and Pleasure-Cons. The odd man out for rechargeable controllers is the Microsoft Xbox, which has been delivery consoles with AA batteries ever because the Xbox 360 hit cabinets. Even should you purchase a brand-new Collection X, the packaged Xbox controller comes with two AA batteries.
This may look like some type of cost-cutting measure for Microsoft, however the precise purpose that Xbox devotees are nonetheless caught with battery energy has extra to do with gamer preferences. Discussing the battery debate in an interview with Digital Foundry, Jason Ronald, the companion director of program administration at Xbox, mentioned, “What it comes all the way down to is when truly speaking to players… there’s a sturdy camp that basically desires AAs. So simply giving flexibility is the best way to please each [sets of] folks… You should utilize a chargeable battery pack, and it really works similar to it does on the Elite, [but] it’s a separate factor.”
Leveling up your Xbox energy choices
Relying on how typically an individual video games, an Xbox proprietor may discover themselves going by way of a number of units of AA batteries per yr. Happily, Xbox One and Xbox Collection X|S homeowners have the choice of investing in a number of options. For starters, you possibly can at all times buy a set of rechargeable AA batteries and a charging dock. Microsoft additionally makes its personal Xbox Rechargeable Battery that comes with a USB-C cable.
On a full cost, the pack ought to ship as much as 30 hours of playtime, and a full recharge solely takes about 4 hours. Conveniently, you may even be capable to play video games whereas the pack is charging — so long as you have got a USB-C cable or extension that is lengthy sufficient to succeed in your sitting space. Alternatively, Xbox followers can get their palms on the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2.
Whereas $200 might sound expensive, the Elite Collection 2 includes a built-in, rechargeable battery pack that delivers as much as 40 hours of playtime. It additionally comes with interchangeable and adjustable thumbsticks, a further D-pad, a carrying case, and helps as much as three customized gaming profiles. The Elite Collection 2 is suitable with the Xbox Collection X|S, Xbox One, Home windows PC, and cell units with Xbox Wi-fi and Bluetooth.
Why Xbox is unlikely to drop its battery desire
In an age the place Microsoft continues to raise prices on consoles, accessories, and games, it could truly be a savvy transfer for the corporate to stay with AA batteries for its customary wi-fi Xbox controllers. AA batteries have been kicking round for many years, and there is no purpose to suppose they’re going to all of a sudden change into overly costly. Whether or not you are a fan of Xbox’s AA reliance otherwise you choose rechargeable energy, Microsoft provides its players decisions — one of many choices simply requires a bit extra capital.
And should you’re nonetheless on the fence about buying an Xbox altogether, we urge you to take a look at our review of the Xbox Series X. From its distinctive design to its uncooked gaming energy, it is nonetheless one of many strongest consoles available on the market in 2025. Are you extra thinking about taking your gaming {hardware} on the go? The Steam Deck is a stable handheld, however we suggest having a look at our record of the best Steam Deck alternatives presently obtainable (the Asus ROG Ally is tough to beat).
