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Microsoft Unveils Xbox Nano Controller: The Smallest Gamepad at $49.99

On October 14, 2026, Microsoft unveiled the Xbox Nano Controller, the company’s smallest gamepad. Preorders are open, and sales start in November.

Cover image for a news story about the compact Xbox Nano Controller: a small controller next to a smartphone

At a glance

  • Microsoft unveiled the Xbox Nano Controller for $49.99, with preorders open from October 14
  • It is just over 5 inches long, weighs 3.5 ounces and has all 18 standard controls
  • Sales start in November in several countries; Ukraine is not on Microsoft’s list

Microsoft unveiled the Xbox Nano Controller on October 14, 2026, calling it the smallest gamepad in its lineup. It costs $49.99, preorders are open from October 14, and the device will go on sale in November.

The gamepad is shorter and lighter than most smartphones

According to Microsoft, the Xbox Nano Controller is just over 5 inches (about 13 cm) long and weighs 3.5 ounces (about 100 g). Despite its size, it has all 18 standard controls, a rechargeable battery and a programmable Action Button, which can be set to take a screenshot or record gameplay, for example. It connects via Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth.

Microsoft describes it as a gamepad for games that are easy to play as a family. In Minecraft Dungeons II, up to four heroes can play together locally or online, and with this gamepad, Forza Horizon 6 can go with you beyond the living room.

Holiday offers will be added to the gamepad in the US

  • When buying selected Samsung TVs: Nano Controller and two months of Game Pass Ultimate for new members.
  • When buying Meta Quest: Nano Controller and two months of Game Pass Ultimate for new members.

On Samsung TVs, the Xbox app is available through Gaming Hub: in selected regions, you can use monthly cloud gaming time for hundreds of Game Pass games simply by connecting the gamepad.

Microsoft positions the Nano Controller for younger players, people with smaller hands and those who want to take a gamepad along on trips.

Sources and methodology

Analysis of public sourcesChecked 15 October 2026

  1. Xbox Wire: Meet the Xbox Nano Controller news.xbox.com

Frequently asked questions

How much does the Xbox Nano Controller cost?

$49.99. Preorders are open from October 14, 2026, and prices may vary by country.

What is the Action Button for?

It can be set to take a screenshot, record gameplay and perform other common actions.

How does the gamepad connect?

Through Xbox Wireless and Bluetooth. Microsoft mentions compatibility with a range of devices but does not list them in its announcement.

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Author

Vasyl Vasyliev

Has been working on AppMaxx since 2019, writing reviews of smartphones, laptops and other gadgets, game and movie roundups, and how-tos on Windows and apps.

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