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Xbox One Controller And Headset Prices Revealed
Microsoft has posted the prices for some the Xbox One's accessories, including the upcoming console's controller, headset, and charge kit.
The official Microsoft Store lists the price for a standalone Xbox One wireless controller at $59.99, just $10 more than what the company charges for a wireless 360 controller. An Xbox One Chat Headset – which we know will not be bundled with the system – will set players back $24.99. Microsoft is also offering an official charging kit, which contains a charging cable and battery pack, for $24.99 – or you can buy a controller/charge kit combo for $74.99.
[Source: Microsoft Store]
Our Take
While Microsoft's product page states
that the Xbox One controller boasts over 40 innovations, I'm disappointed by
two glaring omissions. First, is the much-complained about missing headset –
given the company's numerous
policy changes
recently, I'm surprised Microsoft hasn't decided to throw one in with console just
to shut people up.
My second point of contention is that the Xbox One controller uses AA batteries by default. While environmentally conscious gamers might invest in a charging kit or use their own rechargeable AA batteries, many more won't think twice about burning through countless regular batteries during the lifespan of their console.
In January, analyst firm IDC put the total number of Xbox 360 sales at 76 million. Throw in all of the extra controllers gamers buy for playing with friends and family, and you're looking at hundreds of millions of used batteries every year just for the 360 (the Wii, which has sold roughly 100 million consoles and countless more Wii remotes, is an even greater offender).
That kind of avoidable waste is inexcusable for a next-gen console, when virtually every other modern electronic device has a built-in, rechargeable battery. I was hoping all three next-gen consoles would adopt a more eco-friendly approach for their controllers (preferably rechargeable batteries that can also be easily replaced should they ever wear out), but it looks like Microsoft is still opting for the cheapest and most wasteful method for powering our future play sessions.
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