The recent Xbox Elite Series 3 leak wasn't the only Xbox controller rumor to pan out. Microsoft just announced the surprise Xbox Nano as well, confirming a November 4 release date and a $49.99 price tag. That's less than the Xbox Core controller's typical $59.99–$69.99 retail pricing, putting Microsoft's new pocket-sized gamepad in direct competition with a host of existing alternatives.
Microsoft's Xbox Nano is intended to be a low-cost, ultra-portable controller for Xbox console, PC gaming, and cloud gaming across multiple platforms. Aside from portability, Microsoft also claims the controller is "great for smaller hands," making it a potential fit for kids just getting into gaming. Its design looks more comfy for adults with big hands to me though, compared to something like the Game Boy Micro. I use stuff like this for Remote Play and gaming on a Chromebook at the noodle bar, or simply to pass around when a friend wants to join in for a casual game.
Preorders for the new controller are already open on Amazon and Microsoft's website, but how does it stack up against currently existing options on the market? Let's take a look.
Xbox Nano Vs 8BitDo SN30 Pro Hall Effect: The Direct Matchup
The Xbox Nano's compact form factor calls to mind 8BitDo SN30 lineup of wireless controllers. The latest 8BitDo SN30 Pro ($44.99 USD on Amazon) offers a similar pocket-friendly form factor with dual analog sticks, Hall Effect joysticks designed to resist stick drift, and motion controls.
Sadly, the SN30 Pro does not support Xbox consoles, but it should work seamlessly with Nintendo's Switch and Switch 2 handhelds, as well as PC, Mac, Android, and Linux. At $5 less than the Xbox Nano, it's a compelling alternative if Xbox compatibility isn't a requirement.
For an even cheaper option, consider the 8BitDo Micro ($24.99 USD on Amazon). Its ultra-compact design makes it easy to carry, though the lack of analog sticks makes it better suited to retro games and other titles that don't require dual sticks.
Xbox Nano Vs 8BitDo FlipPad: Pocket Versus Clip
If you're looking for an affordable way to game on the go, the Xbox Nano is worth considering. However, the 8BitDo FlipPad ($30.99 USD on Amazon) costs less and can clip onto your existing smartphone, which is great for retro gaming.
Finally, there's also the GameSir Pocket Taco ($34.99 USD on Amazon), a controller built specifically for retro gaming. Of the options here, it's arguably the closest to recreating the feel of classic handheld consoles. Its flip-up design also leaves your phone's on-screen keyboard accessible when you need it.
Xbox Nano Vs Backbone One: The Revolution Will Be Tele-scopic
Few things capture the state of portable gaming today quite like telescopic controllers. These extend to accommodate most smartphones and some tablets, turning them into handheld gaming devices that can rival the convenience of a Steam Deck, PlayStation Portal, or ASUS ROG Xbox Ally X.
Compared with the Xbox Nano and other pocketable gamepads, telescopic controllers offer a more complete portable gaming experience. They pair a phone's screen with physical controls in a single handheld setup, making them particularly well-suited to modern, console-style games rather than just retro gaming.
Among the established telescopic controller brands, GameSir, PowerA, and the relative newcomer-to-the-scene (but decidedly premium-priced) Backbone stand out, based on reviews and my own experience. The photo above shows the second-generation Backbone One ($69.99 USD, 13% off on Amazon), whose basic form factor is representative of the category.
If you're willing to pay more for the form factor, the Backbone Pro ($169.99 USD on Amazon) offers improved ergonomics, two extra back buttons, and fully-sized thumbsticks. Neither Backbone models uses Hall Effect or TMR sticks, but the Pro does at least let let you recalibrate its sticks as needed.. There's also an Xbox Edition Pro ($179.99 USD on Amazon), for those who prefer Xbox-themed styling.
The GameSir X5 Lite includes Hall Effect joysticks for just $34.99 USD on Amazon, while the also Xbox-licensed PowerA MOGA XP7-Plus costs $65.21 USD on Amazon and adds back buttons, though it lacks Hall Effect sticks.
All this is to say, there are tons of great options already available on the market that you could buy instead of the Xbox Nano controller, but the Nano itself is uniquely compatible with Xbox and PC and is good in its own right.
I imagine some of you will end up buying that instead, or opting for two or more of the above instead of choosing. The Microsoft announcement has already proven quite popular, so here's hoping people enjoy their new pocket controllers.
Christopher Harper is a tech writer with over a decade of experience writing how-tos and news. Off work, he stays sharp with gym time & stylish action games.