The Aeon Pro controller from SteelSeries is the pro choice for gamers who need a high-end and technical device for their Xbox and PC. It offers near-endless battery life, exceptional polling rates, extreme comfort, and a familiar layout. On top of this, it can be customised using the free-to-download SteelSeries desktop software.
This phenomenal device offers elite-level quality with its Hall-effect analogue sticks and mechanical switches. Furthermore, there are mappable buttons, adjustable triggers, spare thumbsticks, and a handy docking and connectivity station. In short, this peripheral is versatile, comfortable, and possibly the best controller you will own.
What’s in the box of the Aeon Pro controller?
- The packaging is exciting and professional. Moreover, it is durable and recyclable.
- The Aeon Pro controller comes in 2 colourways. I was sent the white and off-grey version. A black alternative is available. The controller is similar to the Xbox official device, and it has 4 rear mappable buttons.
- A charging and connectivity station is provided.
- 2 batteries come as standard. Do note that the batteries are compatible with other SS products.
- Spare thumbsticks are included.
- Learn the basics with the user manual.
Technical aspects.
On the surface, the Aeon Pro controller is an easy-to-understand gaming peripheral. However, if you scratch the surface, you quickly discover the layers of impressive, high-end tech. This controller is designed with competitive gaming in mind. After all, SteelSeries is renowned for its winning attitude. Thankfully, this controller offers match-winning elements that will transform your performance.
I’m going to start with the battery life. Although this is a dry topic, I was impressed by the 12-15 hours of playtime per charge. This may not seem groundbreaking, but if you consider that the docking station is charging a spare battery, you are never without juice. Furthermore, if you place the controller on the dock, it will charge both batteries at once. Alternatively, you may use the included USB-C cable to play through a wired connection.
The base is not only a docking station, but it is also a gateway to seamless connectivity. Instead of connecting the device via a pairing method to each platform, you can simply flick a switch, and it will connect to your PC or Xbox. If you wish to use this controller for your mobile phone, you can. It has Bluetooth functionality for the most versatile approach.
More tech.
Elite gaming is all about high response rates, customisation, and 100% accuracy. Thankfully, the Aeon Pro controller offers these elements as standard. If you use this on PC, you’ll enjoy 1000 Hz polling for instantaneous results. Alternatively, Xbox users and PC users connected to a headset enjoy up to 250 HZ polling. This is somewhat slower, but extremely responsive and impressive for console use.
Customisation is key for every genre you tackle. With 4 mappable rear buttons, you can make this controller work for you. This wasn’t my go-to, but I love the freedom to change my layout using the app and my saved profiles. The profiles are accessed via the built-in menu, and you use the handy screen to select the profile for every genre you play.
Dead zone adjustment, Hall effect triggers, trigger stops, mechanical switches, and sensitivity can be altered to your needs. This makes this gamepad the most advanced option for PC and Xbox users. A lack of stick drift is the difference between exceptional performance, longevity, and wanting to smash your controller. The HE sticks offer incredible accuracy and zero stick drift. Therefore, you’ll be topping every online leaderboard in no time.
Build quality.
I wasn’t surprised that the build quality was exceptional. SteelSeries doesn’t cut corners, and the Aeon Pro controller is built with longevity in mind. Every aspect of this device is designed to resist the wear and tear of extended gaming sessions. The switches are rated to last a lifetime, and the hardened plastic resists knocks and bumps. Alongside this, the dock is exceptional. It hugs the controller for a stable charging base. The handy screen highlights the battery life of the controller and the spare battery. Therefore, you will not be caught out. Additionally, it looks amazing on your desktop.
If you are buying a third-party controller, you want it to be as familiar as possible. Thankfully, the button placement, size, and weight are similar to the official Xbox peripheral. There are minor differences that’ll play with your muscle memory. The screenshot/record button is located to the rear of the pad. Furthermore, the menu (burger) button is in a different position. This was a little strange, but nothing to complain about.
If you fancy changing the thumbsticks, this can be achieved with ease. A simple pulling motion lets you detach the original sticks, and a gentle push applies the concave alternative. This is ideal if you use different sticks for different genres. Subsequently, it adds to this controller’s versatile approach.
Is the Aeon Pro controller worth it?
The Aeon Pro controller is an elite and next-level product. However, this comes with a price tag to match. This is probably the only sticking point that may prevent people from investing. Yet, if you are looking for a next-level peripheral that can be used across multiple platforms, this has to be your first choice.
Every aspect of this device is designed for high-end gamers. The exceptional polling rates, build quality, and versatility make this a fine choice. Furthermore, I adore the customisation options, the never-ending power, and the ergonomic design. Accordingly, it is amazing, and I recommend buying it here!
(More information on SteelSeries can be found here!)
(Full disclosure! A sample was provided for an unbiased and free review!)
