Xbox Nano Controller Delivers Complete Controls in a Tiny Rechargeable Form for Everyday Portability

Microsoft has rolled out the Xbox Nano Controller today as its smallest option yet, measuring a little over five inches in length and weighing just 3.5 ounces. That makes it shorter and lighter than most modern smartphones, and a clear step down in bulk from the standard Xbox Wireless Controller, which runs closer to six inches wide and roughly ten ounces once batteries go in. Pre-orders opened immediately at $49.99, with stock set to reach stores in November across the United States and more than thirty other countries, including the United Kingdom, Canada, Japan, and several across Europe and Latin America.

Every one of the normal 18 gameplay inputs appears in this new controller, so the layout of sticks, face buttons, triggers, bumpers, and disc-style d-pad remains unchanged, providing gamers with all of the functionality they’re used to. The programmable Action Button in the center may be customized via the Xbox Accessories app, allowing you to rapidly take snapshots or record gameplay. The AA cells have been replaced by a built-in rechargeable battery that can be charged via a rear USB-C connector. However, you can purchase a cable separately, and the unit is not compatible with any of your previous Xbox charging ports.

The new Xbox Wireless can connect directly to Series X, Series S, and Xbox One consoles, while Bluetooth allows you to connect with Windows PCs, iOS or Android phones, and a few smart TVs. It makes it simple to play at home or away from the television, whether you’re streaming a session on your phone while on vacation or gathering your pals for some local co-op in Minecraft Dungeons 2. Microsoft claims that the reduced size makes it ideal for younger players (or anyone with tiny hands), and that it easily fits into a bag if you’re heading out to play Forza Horizon 6 on the go.

The only color option is white, and the ABXY buttons have their customary vivid accents. (Interestingly, the little status screen that has been going about in leaked images did not get it into the final design, so the back is left nice and plain with just the USB-C port and the pairing button on it). One thing worth noting is a bundle deal available to new Xbox Game Pass Ultimate customers in the United States, which includes a controller and two months of Game Pass tossed in for good measure, all paired with specific Samsung TVs or Meta Quest headsets. Launch day is November 4th, so you’ll be able to acquire this handy little controller (without the need for any extra adapter packs or batteries, which is a big advantage).