I don’t own an Xbox, but Microsoft just got me to preorder its newest controller anyway. I ordered the Xbox Nano Controller from Amazon for $49.99 because its smaller design looks like it could be a good fit for me.
You see, I have smaller hands. A controller designed with that in mind immediately gets my attention, especially when it offers a familiar layout. My plan is to use it with my PC, Apple TV, iPhone, and iPad, so the Xbox branding isn’t what sold me on it.
Announced today, the Nano measures a little over five inches in length and weighs just 3.5 ounces. Microsoft calls it its smallest controller, and it retains all 18 standard gameplay inputs. The company is pitching it to younger players, people with smaller hands, and anyone who would appreciate something easier to carry.
As the father of a toddler who is beginning to show an interest in gaming, I can see another potential use for it in my house. The smaller size could make it a good fit for my son too, although I’ll have to see how comfortably he can reach the buttons and sticks.
Adults have different hand sizes too, and I like seeing Microsoft offer another option without making buyers abandon the basic Xbox button layout. Of course, smaller dimensions alone don’t guarantee comfort. How the grips, sticks, and triggers feel together will determine whether this becomes something I regularly reach for.
The Nano includes Xbox Wireless for connecting to compatible Xbox consoles, plus Bluetooth for other supported devices. Microsoft’s product page lists Windows 10 and Windows 11 PCs, tablets, iOS, Android, and compatible smart TVs. Apple TV isn’t explicitly named there, so that part of my intended setup will need a compatibility check once it arrives.
There’s also a built-in rechargeable battery, which is welcome. However, Microsoft says the USB-C cable required to charge it is sold separately. Plenty of us already have charging cables around the house, but I still think a rechargeable controller should include what you need to charge it.
Microsoft also added a programmable Action Button. The company says it can handle functions such as screenshots, gameplay capture, and other frequently used shortcuts. I’ll be interested to see how useful that button is across the devices I actually play on, since the announcement doesn’t spell out its behavior on each platform.
Preorders open today, October 14, with availability beginning in November in the United States and numerous other markets. Microsoft says pricing and availability will vary by country, with more markets to follow.
The company is also arranging US holiday promotions with Samsung and Meta. Purchases of select Samsung TVs will come with an offer including the Nano and two months of Game Pass Ultimate for new members. A separate Meta Quest purchase offer will include the same controller and subscription duration, also for new members.
For me, the appeal is much simpler than a holiday bundle. I want a comfortable controller that suits my hands and works with the devices I already own. At $49.99, I’m willing to give the Xbox Nano a try, but I’ll need some actual gaming time with it before saying Microsoft got the size right.
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