Microsoft Unveils Xbox Nano, Its Smallest Controller Yet

Microsoft has introduced the Xbox Nano, a compact wireless controller that the company says is its smallest Xbox controller to date. CNET News first reported the announcement on Wednesday.

According to Microsoft, the controller measures just over 5 inches in length and weighs 3.5 ounces, making it smaller and lighter than typical smartphones. For comparison, CNET News cites an iPhone 18 Pro at 5.9 inches and 7.4 ounces, and a standard Xbox One wireless controller at just over 6 inches and 9.9 ounces, excluding batteries.

The Nano includes all 18 standard gameplay inputs, matching the layout of the full-size Xbox controller. It also features a programmable Action Button that can be mapped to functions such as screenshots, gameplay capture, and other shortcuts.

The controller has a rechargeable battery and supports Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth for connecting to compatible devices. Microsoft lists a $50 price for the US, with pre-orders available on the Xbox website, and says it will launch in other markets including Australia, Canada, and the UK starting in November. Pricing and availability are expected to vary by country.

CNET managing editor for computers and gaming Josh Goldman highlighted a key differentiator from existing third-party mini controllers. “While there are third-party mini Xbox controllers, they’re almost all wired,” Goldman said. “The Xbox Nano supports official Xbox Wireless without the need for an additional wireless adapter, plus it has Bluetooth. This makes it not only a great option for taking over to a friend’s house for gaming, but for travel in general, so you can use it for playing on a phone or tablet, too.”

Microsoft is also bundling the Nano controller with two months of Game Pass Ultimate for some holiday promotions. One offer includes the controller and the subscription with select Samsung TVs, leveraging the Xbox app available through Samsung’s Gaming Hub. A separate holiday bundle pairs the controller and two free months of Game Pass Ultimate with purchases of a Meta Quest headset. CNET News notes it has reviewed Game Pass, describing it as pricey but a useful add-on for gamers.

For players focused on portability, the Nano’s combination of wireless Xbox connectivity and Bluetooth in a small form factor addresses a gap that existing third-party mini controllers largely leave open. The $50 price matches the standard Xbox wireless controller’s typical US price, positioning the Nano as a size alternative rather than a budget option. The bundled Game Pass promotions with Samsung TVs and Meta Quest headsets suggest Microsoft is using the accessory to extend Xbox gaming into smart TV and VR contexts.

What remains less clear is how the smaller size affects ergonomics for long play sessions, and whether the November international rollout will see similar pricing. Microsoft has not shared those details, and CNET News did not report on them. Similarly, the company has not said whether the Nano is designed primarily as a companion device or as a primary controller for console play.

The Xbox Nano is available for US pre-orders now, with a wider release planned for November.