Xbox owners haven't had many wireless controller options in the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One eras. Microsoft's wireless protocol has largely been limited to standard first-party controller and high-end Elite Series 2. Great third-party wired controllers exist for Xbox, but we're only now starting to see officially licensed wireless controllers from manufacturers outside of Microsoft. PowerA released a solid mid-range Xbox controller earlier this year, and now Turtle Beach has joined the party with the officially licensed Stealth Ultra, a premium alternative to the Elite Series 2. Turtle Beach's Stealth Ultra is pricey at $200, but it's an incredible controller that's worth your consideration.

Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra Wireless Controller

$200

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The Stealth Ultra retains the conventional Xbox controller layout. Though it doesn't have the same heft to it as the Elite Series 2, it has superb ergonomics with textured grips and a premium finish. As far as inputs go, I actually prefer the Stealth Ultra to the Elite Series 2, which was a surprise since the Elite Series 2 has long been my favorite controller. Buttons, triggers, and sticks are a cut above their Elite Series 2 counterparts (and most controllers in general).

Face, shoulder, and rear buttons, as well as the D-pad, are all activated via microswitches. This reduces actuation distance, provides near-instant feedback, and produces a satisfying click comparable to pressing a gaming mouse. In addition to offering a higher level of precision, the microswitch buttons simply feel great. Turtle Beach is not the first manufacturer to implement microswitches into its controller; Razer's Wolverine line for Xbox and PS5 offers microswitch inputs, too. If you've ever tried the Wolverine, the Stealth Ultra feels quite similar. If you're new to microswitch inputs, you're in for a treat.