Verdict
The Thrustmaster eSwap X 2 Pro is a great wired gaming comptroller . It ’s well-heeled in hand and reactive across the table with a convenient modular design for attaching accessories . However , its pumped up connection feels quite go out in 2024 .
Pros
Cons
Key Features
Introduction
The Thrustmaster eSwap X 2 Pro is the brand ’s latest modular play controller that take to build on the successes of premature feat to extend an all - conquering electrify option for both Xbox and PC .
Whether Thrustmaster ’s latest option is capable of reach it onto the tilt of thebest secret plan controllerswe’ve test in the yesteryear , however , remains to be seen . I ’ve put it under some intense examination to line up out more .
Design
The Thrustmaster eSwap X 2 Pro initially does n’t stray too far from its Forza - centric sibling , and its herald , the original XR Pro . It ’s a much chunkier controller than the contention with a taller height and more and more rugged aesthetical that ’s a far watchword from more curved choices from Microsoft and Scuf . The taller frame can take some getting used to , and gives the eSwap X 2 professional a feeling that ’s not too different from the one that shipped with the old Sega Dreamcast .
Unlike the likes of the Scuf Instinct Pro , however , the eSwap X 2 Pro does without any bod of rubber on the rear for redundant ease and support , alternatively sticking totally with a pliant case . This would have been a nice touch for longsighted gaming session , but the eSwap X 2 Pro is still a well-to-do controller to practice with a frame that conforms well to the handwriting .
Its black and gold accented styling with an ‘ XO ’ textured finish on the trigger and restrainer ’s front dental plate looks fantabulous , and fit in well with the overall look of blackened Xbox console and meaner - looking gaming personal computer . The eSwap X 2 Pro in this configuration , though , may not pair too well with a standard issueXbox Series Sand its white chassis , but it is withal compatible . The eSwap X 2 Pro looks smart , that ’s for sure .
As with the eSwap XR Pro , the eSwap X 2 Pro feature modular thumbsticks and a D - Pad with a blistering swappable system where the mental faculty can be taken out and moved around at will . This no - assembly - involve execution is mighty commodious , and while the modules are held in with substantial magnets , they can still be taken out with a reasonable amount of force . It is also possible to attach dissimilar thumbsticks to the faculty as they just screw off – Thrustmaster includes a pair of non - recessed options in the box for this , which is handy .
Thrustmaster ’s latest entry also features a broad range of the other accouterment I ’ve come to expect from pro degree restrainer , including remappable rear buttons and lockable induction for instant propulsion that ’s standardised to mouse clicks . The eSwap X 2 Pro also sport the same mechanically skillful switches beneath the main ABXY clustering of buttons , which finger especially like to the main left and right buttons on a mouse with a low - profile travel and tactile feedback .
Round the back is where the first real refinement is , as Thrustmaster has replaced the senesce Micro USB connector on the eSwap X 2 Pro with a much more up - to - dateUSB - Cport . The cable included has also seen its connector changed , but it keep the same three - measure length which is utilitarian if you ’re going to be using the eSwap X 2 Pro across the room from your Xbox .
Its packaging is also the same as previous entree , and while Thrustmaster has n’t made any specific environmental claim here , the eSwap X 2 Pro is package well in a cardboard box with froth protecting the controller . There is a freeGame Pass Ultimatetrial code at bottom , too .
Performance
In testing the Thrustmaster eSwap X 2 Pro with a pick of games , include Forza Motorsport and Call of Duty World War II , it uncover itself to be a reactive control in terms of both push presses and its vibrations . On that latter point , the quiver on the onetime eSwap XR Pro were quite jarring at times , and it seems as if Thrustmaster has intone it down with this new framework . While they are still strong , they ’re less jarring as I ran over curb , or crashed into a paries when running laps of Silverstone on the recent Forza Motorsport .
The standard issue Xbox button layout was familiar and pleasant to apply for extended periods , while the button on the reverse of the controller were within easygoing reach . Its textured analogue marijuana cigarette were responsive , as were the main mechanically skillful buttons . However , the D - Pad matte a fiddling cheaper than the rest of the button on the front of the eSwap X 2 professional , even if its clit are also mechanical .
Booting up Call of Duty World War II disclose the benefit of the lockable trigger , propose snappy inputs that admit for more responsive gunplay . However , the received config of these triggers feels as if they have shorter travel than competitors , meaning the lockable commonwealth does n’t feel too dissimilar . I ’m still grateful for their inclusion , and they certainly made a dispute to me attempting to pelt enemies with bullets .
Compatibility here is excellent with simple plug - and - gambling operation with both my Xbox Series X and Windows gaming personal computer . That ’s the advantage of a pumped-up gambling control , as it prevents any faffing around with pairing . However , there ’s something that feels a little out of date about the eSwap X 2 Pro using a wired connection , given other pro - grade controllers have moved exclusively to a wireless apparatus .
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Should you buy it?
Where the Thrustmaster eSwap X2 Pro shines is with its convenient , modular agency of switch out thumbsticks and the D - Pad . If you project trying it , this is the controller for you .
As much as the Thrustmaster eSwap X 2 Pro is fantastic , similarly priced pick run to trench the cable . If you want less unsightly dangly wires , you ’ll want to look elsewhere .
Final Thoughts
The Thrustmaster eSwap X 2 Pro may well be a refinement over its predecessor , but it brings with it some welcome character - of - lifetime functions including both a USB - snow link and toned - down ( but still ample ) palpitation .
The modular pattern for swap morsel in and out is also clever , especially with screw - in thumbsticks of varying sizes . It create the customisation procedure a lot easier than other controllers which require some meeting place or removal of other bits before you could convert things . It ’s also comfortable to hold , although the deficiency of any rubberised financial support leaves it behind the likes of theScuf Instinct Pro .
The swelled matter with the eSwap X2 Pro though against the ilk of Scuf ’s alternative and theXbox Elite Series 2is the fact it ’s electrify . Microsoft ’s own option is alike in price to the eSwap X2 Pro , and offers arguably broad customization , with a sleeker conformation , and the benefit of a seamless wireless connection . While Thrustmaster ’s option is a good one , it is overshadowed by its rivals . For more options , check up on out our inclination of thebest secret plan controllerswe’ve tested .
Trusted Score
How we test
We use every game controller we test for at least a week . During that fourth dimension , we ’ll check it for ease of use and put it through its stride by play a variety of different genres .
We also control the controller ’s computer software support and battery life if applicable .
FAQs
The eSwap X2 Pro works with Xbox and PC .
Full Specs
