SteelSeries wants $260 for a controller that instantly switches between your PC and Xbox

Luxury Gaming: SteelSeries was founded 25 years ago with a specific focus on quality gaming peripherals and esports partnerships. Now, the company is adding a brand-new “quick switch” technology to its portfolio to support both PC and Xbox ecosystems. It’s a “premium” gaming solution that, unfortunately, also requires a premium financial commitment.

SteelSeries recently unveiled the Aeon Pro, a “luxury” controller designed to serve the needs of multi-platform gaming customers. The wireless device includes a patent-pending “QuickSwitch” system that lets users pair it with a gaming PC and an Xbox console at the same time, going back and forth with no need to change any setting or Bluetooth connections.

The Aeon Pro comes with a massive $260 price tag, which is quite a lot even when compared to premium gaming peripherals such as the Xbox Elite Controller Series 2. SteelSeries said that the new controller can provide an innovative solution for gamers who play on multiple systems. However, the quick switch option is just the first entry in a long list of features targeting customization and reliability in different gaming scenarios.

The Aeon Pro comes with a QuickSwitch Dock System, which can be connected via USB to a PC, a modern Xbox console, and even mobile devices. After proper connectivity is established, the controller can “instantly” – and hopefully reliably – switch between the different systems with no need to re-pair, reconnect, or move cables.

Another feature of the Aeon Pro is the “Unlimited Battery Life” option, which relies on two rechargeable batteries. Players can use one battery with the controller, while the other charges inside the docking base – a method also used by some headsets. The base can also be used to store additional thumbsticks, charge spare batteries, and provide a more organized gaming setup.

The Aeon Pro’s chassis hosts an OLED Smart Display, which can work both as a power level monitor and a native customization feature. Gamers can use the display to remap controls directly, manage profiles and settings, and more. Additional customization options are available on PC through the SteelSeries GG software application.

Speaking of controls, SteelSeries guarantees potential customers that the Aeon Pro packs a lot of buttons and levers with plenty of different features they can choose from. The Hall Effect thumbsticks are allegedly free from drift issues, while mechanical switches provide tactile feedback and should survive millions of hasty clicks.

The Aeon Pro is currently available in black and white finishes directly from SteelSeries’ store, plus select retailers and online stores across the world. Suggested price tags are $260 in the US and Asia-Pacific nations, €260 in Europe and other EMEA markets, £230 in the UK. I think I’ll rely on my original Sony DualShock 3 PS3 controller, which works quite well for PC gaming and PS3 emulation, for a few more years.