Accessories for Xbox One Elite Series 2 Controller(Model 179 inch
✅ PROS
- CNC-machined aluminum thumbsticks with textured grip rings that hold up far better than the stock rubber-coated sticks
- Includes both standard and tall stick variants plus a D-pad and paddles in one kit
- Tool-free installation — sticks pull straight off and press on in seconds
❌ CONS
- Metal sticks get noticeably cold in air-conditioned rooms, which some players find off-putting
- No carrying case or storage tray included, so loose components can get lost between swaps
The Verdict
The Elite Series 2 is Microsoft’s $180 flagship controller, and the stock thumbsticks are its weakest link. The rubber coating peels. The tension wears unevenly. And when you’re paying that much for precision input, a mushy stick ruins the whole experience. This accessory kit addresses that specific problem — and does it well enough to earn a 4.7 average across 235 ratings.
What you actually get
The kit includes six aluminum thumbsticks: three standard-height domed, one tall domed, one standard concave, and one tall concave. There’s also a replacement D-pad and four rear paddles. Everything is CNC-machined from 6061 aluminum with a matte anodized finish, and the grip surfaces use a crosshatch texture rather than the smooth metal you might expect.
The sticks weigh noticeably more than the stock plastic ones — roughly 4 grams each versus 2.5 grams. That’s a small difference, but you’ll feel it in sustained play. The added mass gives a slightly heavier, more deliberate stick feel that some competitive players prefer for fine aim adjustments.
Performance and real-world use
Installation takes about 30 seconds. The sticks pull straight off the magnetic sensor posts — no tools, no prying, no risk of damaging the internal mechanism. The tolerances are tight enough that there’s zero wobble once seated, but not so tight that they’re a pain to remove for cleaning.
The grip texture is the standout feature. The stock Elite sticks are smooth rubber that gets slippery with sweaty hands. These aluminum sticks have a pronounced machined texture that actually improves grip as your hands warm up. One reviewer put it simply: “The texture is aggressive enough to keep thumbs planted during intense matches but not rough enough to irritate skin.” That matches my experience across sessions of Halo Infinite and Call of Duty.
The tall sticks are worth particular attention. They extend the throw by about 4mm, which translates to finer control at the edges of the stick’s travel. For sniping or long-range engagements, that extra precision is meaningful. The concave version sits your thumb deeper into the cup, which helps with sustained pressure on the stick.
What buyers consistently praise
The durability angle comes up constantly in the ratings. Multiple reviewers mention replacing stock sticks that wore out in 3–6 months, then running these for a year plus with no visible wear. One long-term owner noted: “The anodizing hasn’t chipped or faded after 14 months of daily use. The stock rubber was peeling by month four.”
Another consistent theme is the value. Since this is a third-party accessory, it’s dramatically cheaper than buying official Microsoft replacement parts — and the build quality exceeds the OEM components. Several reviewers describe this as a “buy once, cry once” upgrade for an expensive controller.
Where it falls short
Metal sticks have a real downside: they conduct temperature. In an air-conditioned room, these get cold to the touch initially. It’s a brief shock that fades as your hands warm them, but if you’re sensitive to that sensation, it’s worth knowing before you buy.
The kit also lacks any storage solution. The extra sticks, D-pad, and paddles arrive loose in a small plastic bag. If you plan to swap between standard and tall sticks regularly, you’ll want your own organizer or you’ll risk losing components.
Some players may find the added weight fatiguing over marathon sessions. It’s not dramatic — we’re talking about a few grams — but for lightweight-feeling stick enthusiasts, the stock plastic may still be the preference.
Who should buy this
- Competitive FPS players — the tall sticks and improved grip texture deliver measurable aiming benefits
- Elite Series 2 owners with peeling rubber — this is the permanent fix you’re looking for
- Players with larger hands — the taller stick options add reach that feels more natural
Skip it if you’re happy with the stock sticks or if you prefer the softer, cushioned feel of rubber. This is a precision upgrade, not a comfort upgrade.
FAQ
Q: Will these fit the standard Xbox Series X/S controller? No. These are specifically designed for the Elite Series 2’s magnetic stick posts. Standard controllers use a different mounting mechanism.
Q: Do the metal sticks affect the controller’s tension settings? No. The tension adjustment mechanism is in the controller housing, not the sticks. You’ll still get the full range of tension options.
Q: Will these scratch the controller body? The sticks sit above the controller surface with clearance. I’ve seen no reports of scratching, even after extended use.
The Verdict
Buy it if: You own an Elite Series 2 and want sticks that outlast the controller itself. The build quality is exceptional, the grip improvement is immediate, and the price undercuts official replacements.
Skip it if: You prefer the cushioned feel of rubber sticks or play in cold environments where metal contact is unpleasant.
Rating: 4.6/5 — Deducting half a point for the lack of storage and the cold-to-touch metal. Everything else delivers exactly what competitive players need.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.