Microsoft officially announced the Xbox Nano Controller on Wednesday at $49.99, a smaller, rechargeable alternative to its standard controllers. The controller measures 5 inches wide and weighs 3.5 ounces, making it the most compact option in Microsoft’s current accessory catalog.
The controller launches Nov. 4 in select territories, with preorders now available and a five-unit limit per account to deter scalpers.
What Was Announced
The Xbox Nano Controller sits well below the price and size of Microsoft’s other gamepads. The standard Xbox wireless controller starts at $64.99, measures 6 inches wide and weighs about 10 ounces, according to Polygon. The high-end Xbox Elite Wireless Controller starts at $149.99 and measures the same 6-inch width while weighing roughly 12 ounces.
Despite its compact size, the Nano Controller includes all 18 standard gameplay inputs and a programmable Action Button for shortcuts like screenshots and gameplay capture.
The Nano Controller is shorter and lighter than most modern smartphones, for comparison, an iPhone 18 Pro measures 5.9 inches long and weighs 7.4 ounces.
The controller was leaked earlier this year with what appeared to be a small screen meant to show cloud or console connectivity status, but The Verge reported that feature did not make it into the final shipping model.
Battery, Connectivity And Compatibility
The Nano Controller uses a rechargeable battery with USB-C charging and supports both Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth, with no additional wireless adapter needed for PC play.
Microsoft confirmed support for Xbox One, Xbox Series X and S, PC, Windows, Android and iOS, matching the compatibility of its standard controllers.
What It Means For Xbox Accessories
Microsoft positions the Nano for younger players, people with smaller hands, and travelers, $15 cheaper than the standard controller at $49.99, and trimmed from 6 inches wide to 5 inches, cutting about 6.5 ounces.
Select Samsung TVs will ship with the Nano Controller and two months of Game Pass Ultimate this holiday season. The same bundle will come with select Meta Quest headsets.
What’s Next
Preorders are live at retailers and capped at five units per account. The controller rolls out Nov. 4 in select territories, with pricing and availability varying by region.
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