This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate

This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate

As a seasoned gamer who spends countless hours in the virtual world, I have come across many controllers, but none quite like the PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless Controller for Xbox. This controller stands out with its customizable RGB lighting effects and sleek charging stand, making it an attractive addition to any gaming setup.

As an analyst, I find the PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless to be a daring move by PowerA into the elite controller market. However, from my perspective, this particular attempt doesn’t seem to yield the desired success. Nevertheless, I firmly believe that there remains a segment of consumers eager for a premium-quality controller at an affordable price point, and this product could potentially cater to that demand.

Among the limited number of third-party wireless controllers for Xbox, the PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless stands tall, competing alongside heavyweights such as the Razer Wolverine V3 and SCUF Instinct Pro. Although I’m glad to see an expanding range of choices this year, I was expecting a more affordably priced option from PowerA.

In essence, the Fusion Pro Wireless stands out visually with its elegant design, though its high-end cost, possibly due to its customizable RGB illumination, positions it among professional controllers. However, this premium segment is already ruled by robust competitors.

To put it simply, this device boasts some distinctive characteristics. The flexible poles enable on-the-spot height adjustments, and its rear button arrangement, combined with the ergonomic design of the grip, makes it remarkably comfortable, surpassing many other controllers I’ve used. However, its trigger stops could use improvement, even for casual FPS players like myself, which might deter the professional audience it intends to target.

In summary, while the Fusion Pro Wireless is a quality product that’s pleasant to handle, it finds it challenging to distinguish itself in an intensely competitive market. If you’re considering it, I would recommend waiting for a sale before making a purchase.

PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless: Pricing and specifications

This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate
This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate
This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate

Pricing highlights

  • The PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless retails for $149.99, though at the time of publishing it’s on sale for $134.99 at Amazon.
  • The controller has many similar features to the Fusion Pro 4 Wired which retails for a much cheaper $69, but forgoes the wireless capabilities and LED lighting.
  • The controller comes with wireless USB dongle, 10ft USB wire, carrying case and a magnetic charging stand.

The PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless Controller stands out as an upgraded version in PowerA’s product range, boasting wireless functionality, an integrated rechargeable battery, and adjustable RGB illumination. Priced at $149.99, this controller represents a premium choice compared to the more affordably priced PowerA Fusion Pro 4, which is a wired controller costing $69.99.

The Fusion Pro Wireless sports a 2.4GHz dongle that slots into its charging dock, boasts some eye-catching illumination effects, and offers professional features like customizable rear buttons and adjustable thumbsticks. However, the Fusion Pro 4, available at a price significantly lower than half of the Wireless model, possesses similar characteristics, albeit with a wired connection instead of wireless and fewer light effects.

With your Fusion Pro Wireless purchase comes a durable hard-shell carry case, a magnetic charging stand, and a USB-C charging cable. Rest assured, PowerA’s controllers come with a 2-year limited warranty for added peace of mind.

PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless review: The good

This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate

The pros highlights

  • The PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless looks like a perfectly normal Xbox controller until it’s RGB lighting is activated, which is pretty neat.
  • The ‘Quick Twist’ technology on the thumbsticks is actually really innovative and handy when switching between games.
  • The grips on the controller feel comfortable, and the placement of the rear buttons is the best out of any I own.

Opening this controller was akin to attending a unique occasion. Enclosed in its own robust casing, the experience wasn’t dissimilar to my initial unboxing of an Xbox Elite Controller. Yet, I have a minor complaint about its packaging: the magnetic stand doesn’t fit within the case itself, which would have made storage more practical.

Initially, the controller appears utterly ordinary, with no striking design or light features noticeable. However, in a surprising touch, when I connected it, the ghost lighting mysteriously illuminated. I must admit, once turned on, the controller is stunning and I found myself captivated by its various lighting options while taking photos for this review – hence the unusual plant pot image you see here.

This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate

This controller has four distinct lighting zones that can be personalized individually or in unison using a mix of the rear button, face buttons, and D-pad. To be honest, it took some time to grasp how it worked – I had to spend a few minutes carefully studying the instructions – but once I got the hang of it, it turned into an enjoyable way to coordinate the controller’s colors with my games. I chose green for Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred since Spiritborn, obviously.

This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate

The charging dock is conveniently placed beside your computer or gaming console, offering a more refined look than directly plugging in your controller to charge with a USB cable.

This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate
This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate

In summary, the controller boasts numerous appealing features, initially captivating due to its design. However, many of these features can also be found on the Fusion Pro 4 at half the price. The only trade-offs being the absence of lighting and wireless capabilities. I find it would have been more attractive if PowerA had priced this product lower.

PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless review: The bad

This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate

The cons highlights

  • The wireless delivery is by USB 2.4Ghz dongle and not native Xbox wireless, so if you also want to plug in your stand you are using 2 USB ports.
  • The 3-way trigger stops just don’t work very well and may as well be advertised as 1-way.
  • The price point for this controller just isn’t justified when compared to others at this level, or indeed PowerA’s own range of better value controllers.

In simpler terms, the main issue I have with this controller lies in its price, which puts it at a disadvantage compared to other high-quality options from Razer, Scuf, and Xbox itself. Additionally, the performance of the trigger stops, a feature I’ve grown to rely on, was not up to my expectations in this case.

I don’t typically spend much time playing first-person shooter (FPS) games, but with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 now available on Xbox Game Pass, I’ve been diving in headfirst alongside friends. It’s even made me realize the benefits of my controller’s additional features – especially trigger stops – more than ever. In fact, I can’t imagine playing without them set at maximum; they’re essential for helping my slow reflexes.

From my perspective, the response of the trigger on this control unit falls short of expectations. Despite having three levels of adjustment, they seem to lack the expected performance. As you can observe in the photo provided, even when the trigger is fully depressed at its maximum level, there’s evidently too much movement left – a flaw that diminishes the overall quality of an otherwise thoughtfully designed controller.

This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate

The controller isn’t natively wireless from Xbox, instead it uses a dongle for connection, and I was expecting something different. However, it’s not entirely PowerA’s fault because Microsoft seems to restrict the use of their wireless technology quite strictly. Even companies like Turtle Beach, who previously supported Xbox wireless, have begun resorting to using dongles again.

While it’s not a major issue, it does cause some added hassle. For example, if you prefer to keep your dock connected, it takes up two USB ports on your Xbox. It would have been a thoughtful addition if the dock could also function as a receiver, thus eliminating the need for an additional dongle. Nonetheless, this is a minor complaint considering the bigger picture.

PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless: Final thoughts

This wireless Xbox controller is stunning, but at $150 I need more than just a pretty faceplate

You should buy this if …

You want a wireless controller for Xbox and enjoy RGB lighting effects

The customizable RGB lighting adds a fun, aesthetic element, with four separate lighting zones that can be adjusted individually or together. This controller definitely has the ‘fun factor’.

You want a controller with an included charging stand

The charging station offers a streamlined design, practical functionality, and serves as an upgraded, neater choice compared to directly using a USB cable for charging purposes.

🔹 You’re looking for a controller with ergonomic comfort. This one features plush outer grips that ensure comfort even during extended gaming periods. Moreover, the four adjustable rear buttons are strategically placed for your middle and ring fingers, reducing strain and providing a more comfortable gaming experience.

You should not buy this if …

You play a lot of competitive FPS games

Although the controller has three options for stop points on the triggers, these settings seem less effective than anticipated, as there’s still excessive movement, even when set to the maximum level.

It appears that without RGB lighting features, the controller does not provide a substantial upgrade in overall functionality compared to less expensive alternatives. This might suggest that you prioritize other aspects in your choice of a controller rather than RGB lighting.

After completing my evaluation, the decisive factor is if I consistently use the controller in my regular gaming lineup. Regrettably, I don’t believe this model will earn a spot among my favorites or in our top Xbox controllers list. However, it could make an excellent present for a less avid gamer in my family. In truth, I added it to my Gaming Gift List suggestions due to its unique nature, setting it apart from typical controllers. It’s unfortunate because PowerA took a daring approach with this controller, and their idea seems promising. I simply hope they continue to innovate, but perhaps with a more budget-friendly price point in the future!

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2024-12-15 14:39