Need a new controller for your Xbox? Here comes the first officially licensed controller for the Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One. We have already tested several controllers from PowerA, and with the PowerA XP-ULTRA Wireless Controller for Xbox Series X|S, the manufacturer has now obtained a license. The controller is not only suitable for the Microsoft console, but also offers 4-in-1 modularity and a whole host of other functions. However, the PowerA XP-Ultra also has a lot to offer for the price of 99.99 euros (RRP). Find out whether we get a coherent overall package in our test.
Technical details
| Size | 109.9 x 160 x 56.8 mm (H x W x D) |
| Weight | 303 g (with handle) 351 g (handle and cell phone holder) 225 g (without handle, with cell phone holder) 178 g (without handle and cell phone holder) |
| Colors | Black color |
| Cable length | 3 m USB-C to USB-A |
| Compatibility | Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC, Android (Bluetooth) |
| Special features | 2 rumble motors, three-way trigger locks, modular 4-in-1 system, 2000 mAh battery |
| Scope of delivery | Controller, USB-C cable, phone holder |
| Price | Price: € 74.50 * |
Scope of delivery
The PowerA XP-ULTRA Wireless Controller for Xbox Series X|S is designed for the balancing act between mobile and stationary gaming. The modular controller can be reduced to a compact size thanks to the detachable handles. This makes it easier to take it with you, for example in your backpack. If you are on the move, you can attach a smartphone to the detachable clip.
All the individual parts are sensibly packaged and come without a lot of frills. In addition to the controller and the clip, we also find brief illustrated assembly instructions and a code for a one-month Game Pass Ultimate membership. Definitely appropriate, as the XP-Ultra is the first official third-party controller.
Design and workmanship
As with the other controllers from PowerA, no compromises are made. The workmanship of the XP-Ultra is consistently good. We had reservations about the transitions of the removable handles. But we can reassure you. Even after a long gaming session, these are barely noticeable, even though your thumbs are constantly on them.
Apart from that, there are no other areas of poor workmanship to be found. Sharp edges in particular are more than unfortunate for peripherals that are often held in the hand for several hours. However, PowerA does a very good job here.
The fact that it is an Xbox controller is immediately recognizable. On the one hand, this is due to the shape, even if the dimensions are slightly larger. Secondly, the Xbox logo is placed in the middle and the buttons are labeled accordingly. However, the removable handles make the design look very angular. The standard controllers and those from other manufacturers, on the other hand, appear simpler and more modern. Of course, this is due to the modularity, but sometimes compromises have to be made.
Connection and compatibility
After the previous information, it is clear that we can operate the PowerA XP-ULTRA Wireless Controller for Xbox Series X|S in two different ways. The simplest is wireless via Bluetooth. It doesn’t matter which device you connect the controller to. Press and hold the connection button for three seconds and you can pair. The controller can also be used wired. There is a USB-C port on the top for this purpose. This can also be done quickly with the included cable.
To summarize, we can connect three devices to the controller: Wireless an Xbox, wireless via Bluetooth and wired via USB-C cable. Unfortunately, only one device can be connected via Bluetooth. So you can’t connect your PC and your smartphone via Bluetooth, but would have to restart the pairing process each time. It would be even better if we could connect several devices via Bluetooth. To switch between the two modes (Xbox Wireless/Bluetooth), press the connection button twice in succession.
Handling
The PowerA XP-ULTRA Wireless Controller for Xbox Series X|S sits comfortably in the hand. Compared to the normal Xbox controller, it is somewhat chunkier. The XP-Ultra is therefore even more suitable for larger hands. The removable grips have a textured surface for better handling in heated situations. This is continued on two of the four shoulder buttons. The two joysticks are also textured for a better grip.
The handy “mini” version is also interesting. The compact shape is ideal for playing a quick round on the go. Here, too, the back is textured.
There are two extra buttons on the back of the PowerA XP-Ultra. These can be assigned on-the-fly. Any button is possible. The two buttons are easy to reach. The button in the middle activates the programming mode.
The battery capacity is specified as 2000 mAh. The running time is specified as 60 hours, which we were almost able to achieve. We were able to play for 57 hours (- 30 minutes) on a full charge. It certainly depends on the intensity with which you play and which connection mode you use. However, reaching 95 percent of the specified value is within reasonable limits.
Conclusion
With the XP-ULTRA Wireless Controller for Xbox Series X|S, PowerA has managed to bring the first officially licensed controller for the Xbox onto the market. Thanks to its modularity and the option of attaching a cell phone, the company has also come up with an interesting concept. With an RRP of 99.99 euros, you have to put a little more money on the table, but in return you get an all-round good package.
Whether the Xbox license makes the peripheral device all that special remains to be seen.
PowerA XP-Ultra
Workmanship
Features
Ergonomics
Value for money
93/100
PowerA plays the modularity of the XP-Ultra to perfection. The Xbox license is just a nice gimmick.
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