The Xbox Nano Controller is the smallest gamepad Xbox has ever made, and preorders open today for $49.99. Xbox announced it on Xbox Wire this morning, pitching it at younger players, smaller hands, and anyone who wants a controller that actually fits in a pocket.
How small it is
It measures a little over 5 inches long and weighs 3.5 ounces. Xbox says that makes it lighter and shorter than most modern smartphones. Despite the size, nothing is cut from the layout. All 18 standard gameplay inputs are there, so the button map matches the full-size controller you already know.
Features and where it works
The Nano runs on a rechargeable battery rather than AA cells. It also has a programmable Action Button you can set for screenshots, gameplay capture, or another shortcut you use a lot. For connections it supports both Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth, which Xbox says lets it pair with a range of compatible devices.
Xbox is leaning on family play in its pitch. It points to Minecraft Dungeons II, where up to four players can team up in local co-op, as the kind of game where a cheaper second or third controller makes sense. The small size is also meant for bags and trips, and Xbox names Forza Horizon 6 as another game it suits.
Price, release date, and markets
Preorders are live now at $49.99 USD, and the controller ships starting in November. Launch covers 36 markets, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, Brazil, Mexico, and much of Europe, with more regions to follow. Pricing and availability vary by country, so check your local Microsoft Store or an authorized retailer.
With a full input set at $49.99, the Nano is an easy pick for a kid’s first controller or a spare that lives in a travel bag. If your household runs on couch co-op, it is worth a look before the holiday rush.