As my original white wireless controller had been keeping me going for just over 3 years, it was a bit worse for wear. The main problem was that the sticks would not re-centre, they would just get stuck in their last position. The rechargeable batteries I had been using were also dying so I found that a wired controller would be ideal for my needs.
This controller was a great deal, just £17.99 at the time of my purchase, which would be cheaper than me having to buy a new wireless and batteries or a Play & Charge Kit. With a 2.7m cable, it it more than enough for how far I am going to need. It also comes with a break off point that stops you from pulling the Xbox or PC off the surface it is put on. It uses a standard USB connection.
It features the new shiny Xbox Guide button, and the glossy black panel where the headset connects. However, it still features the standard D-pad, not the twisting one you get with new consoles, but as I have gotten used to how the old one works, it isn't really a problem for me.
An interesting feature that I noticed was that Microsoft have used 6 normal cross-headed screws to hold this controller together, rather than the fiddly Torx screws on my old one. This means that it should be much easier to take apart for cleaning or respraying with a new colour, but I have not tried this yet, so I can't comment on the success of doing this.
In conclusion, a great product that feels well built, solid and does its job well.