Vitals
Connection: Integrated USB cable
Wireless: No
Cable Length: 3 meters
Headset jack: Yes
Surround Sound: Dolby Atmos for Headphones
Nacon has a history of excellent controllers. They have built a reputation as one of the best in the business and so I was delighted to take the new Nacon Xbox Pro Compact controller for a spin and see if it deserves a place alongside the excellent official Xbox controller.
The first thing I noticed when unboxing the controller was the excellent build quality. The standard matte black plastic on the front is complemented by a textured rear, which gives you an extra grip. I found this really useful, as it took me a few minutes to get used to the compact design. The controller dimensions feel different to anything I have ever used before. Not in a bad way, but there was definitely an adjustment period.
In terms of the design, the most impressive part to me was the analog sticks. They are very sturdy and the grips have a real premium feel to them. Back on PlayStation 4, I used a really expensive Scuf controller and having used both, I’d take these sticks all day. The d-pad is no slouch either, although its slightly diminished size may prove a bit of an issue for those with big hands.
Something that struck me as a little odd was the size of the face buttons. They always performed well while carrying out our review, but at an immediate glance, they do feel a little oversized when everything else is so neat. In keeping with the controller’s compact design, the triggers feel very unique, being smaller in size, but also functioning well.
This is a hard-wired controller and comes with a 3m USB lead which should be ample enough in length for most gaming setups. The cable itself is durable and well made. It also comes with a velcro cable tie allowing you to neatly store it when not in use.
In Nacon’s ongoing effort to give gamers more options than ever they have released two new camo designs for the Pro Compact controller in 2022. Both look great and have definitely overtaken the standard black design as my favourite.
Another aspect of the controller I was impressed with during our testing was the vibration. Often, third-party controllers lack a decent rumble motor, but that is not the case here. An audio jack is also present at the bottom of the controller, in a similar position to the official Xbox controller should you wish to plug in a gaming headset.
Where the Nacon Pro Compact controller sets itself apart from the official Xbox pad is in its customisation options through Nacon’s own software. Here you can not only customise dead zones on the analog sticks but change the sensitivity of the sticks. Presets include settings designed for FPS games and more. You can even turn off vibration altogether should you want a more calm experience.
Pricing is also on point. The RRP is £44.99 which given the excellent built quality, ample cable length and customisation options feel like a steal against other premium third-party controllers. Nacon’s first Xbox release is a big hit and a controller well worth investing in.
-Craig ✌️