Leaked images released on May 14 show Microsoft's upcoming Xbox Elite 3 controller with an all-black design and two new scroll wheel buttons near the headphone jack [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. The controller features a removable rechargeable battery with a capacity of approximately 1,528mAh, about 500mAh less than the Elite 2's 2,050mAh battery from 2019 [1, 5].
The Elite 3 retains the Elite 2's popular customizable features including interchangeable D-pads, paddles, and analog sticks, while adding a new button that switches between local and cloud gaming modes [1, 2, 3, 4]. The cloud mode enables the controller to connect directly to Xbox Cloud Gaming servers, reducing latency for streamed games [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].
The two new scroll wheels' precise function remains unclear. Some reports suggest they may serve as new input methods for games like Microsoft Flight Simulator or allow in-controller adjustments, while others think they could be volume or audio balance controls for game and chat sound [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. One source questioned their utility in mainstream games given their odd placement [4].
The Elite 3 controller may drop physical profile indicators present on the Elite 2, and its triggers resemble those found on the latest Xbox Series controllers rather than the Xbox One model [3]. Alongside the Elite 3, Microsoft is also launching a smaller, compact Xbox Cloud Gaming controller that connects via Wi-Fi direct to cloud servers, supporting 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands and Bluetooth 5.3 [1, 2, 5].
The Elite series targets hardcore gamers who value precision and customization. IGN described the controllers as designed for players “who like to fine tune and customize their controllers with adjustable buttons and triggers, allowing for more control and precision over how you play your games” [2].
Microsoft has yet to announce official pricing or release dates for the Elite 3, though speculation points to a debut at the Xbox annual showcase event scheduled for June 7, 2026 [1, 2, 5].
