It’s safe to say that the current iteration of the Xbox controller – the one that has launched with Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S – is Microsoft’s best version yet. Having brought together years of design experience, and having understood what is required of a decent input device, the Xbox Wireless controller has evolved into the superb piece of equipment it is today. But what if you want something different? What if you feel there is room for improvement? What if you want power for Dolby Atmos for Headphones? That is where NACON are coming in with their new Designed for Xbox Pro Compact Controller for Series X|S, Xbox One and Windows 10 PC.
Available to pre-order right now ahead of launch on March 15th 2021 in Europe, the NACON Pro Compact controller for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and Windows 10 PC is a new wired controller that looks to cover all aspects of customisation. Rolling out as the first accessory from NACON’s new line of Designed for Xbox peripherals, this is a controller that looks to cover a huge amount of bases. And it’s 15% smaller than a standard controller too.
“The Pro Compact controller has really benefited from the combined expertise of all our teams. It stands out for its build quality and all the customisation options it offers – everything you expect from a professional controller,” said Yannick Allaert, Director of Accessories Development at NACON. “After many months of hard work, we are very proud and eager to launch this exciting new range for the Xbox community.”
In place and running on the Pro Compact is an Advanced Mode which brings customisation straight to your fingertips. Working just like the standard Xbox Wireless Controller in Standard Mode, the NACON effort lets you bring in your own setting with an Advanced Mode. By utilising the Pro Compact app, which can be downloaded for Xbox consoles and Windows 10 PCs from the Microsoft Store, you’ll be able to configure button mapping as well as adjust the sensitivity of each stick and trigger through various profile presets.
Further to that, additional settings will let you reverse the stick positions, choose between a D-pad with 4 or 8 directions, and disable the vibration motors. It’s obvious to see how players can therefore easily adapt the Pro Compact to their play style directly from their Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One or Windows 10 PC.
But there’s more and the NACON Pro Compact Controller adds in Dolby Atmos® For Headphones – a first for a controller and allowing for the chance to drop immersive audio towards the ears of gamers. Providing an equally enhanced gaming experience on Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and Windows 10 PC by offering access to Dolby Atmos® For Headphones, this gives a true competitive advantage for gamers by allowing them to perceive the smallest sound details and their location in space for even greater realism. This works thanks to innovative sound processing sent through the controller with the Pro Compact providing total immersion in three dimensions with any stereo headphones connected to the 3.5mm jack. You will however need to supply your own headphones and install the Dolby Atmos app from the Xbox Store.
The Designed For Xbox Pro Compact controller will be available in Europe from March 15th 2021. We’ll have some hands-on for you in the days ahead, followed by a full review. Keep an eye out for the words on these pages and make sure you’re subscribed to your Youtube channel for a first look at the controller.
If you wish to pre-order it, the official NACON site is as good a place to start as any.
