This tiny gamepad with dual analog thumbsticks pushes the limits of portable controllers
As much as I appreciate the ingenious design of the Nintendo Switch's Joy-Con, my family and I can't stand using them as standalone gamepads. So when we travel with the Switch 2, we always bring at least one full-size gamepad, plus a couple of 8BitDo's Zero 2 controllers for games that don't use analog thumbsticks. […]
The CRKD Atom Plus gamepad, priced at $29.99, offers a compact and versatile gaming experience. Measuring just 3.5 inches wide, it is slightly smaller than the 8BitDo Zero 2 but boasts a more feature-packed design. The Atom Plus incorporates symmetrical analog thumbsticks with anti-drift tunneling magnetoresistance technology, shoulder buttons, triggers, rumble feedback, a dedicated home button, motion controls, and customizable settings through a mobile app.
This controller supports multiple platforms, including the Nintendo Switch, Switch 2, PCs, Android, iOS, and smart TVs. However, its diminutive size may pose challenges for users with larger hands, as the thumbsticks are smaller than those on the Switch 2. The layout can feel crowded, with the front action buttons and D-pad causing occasional thumb interference.
Despite these compromises, the Atom Plus offers excellent build quality, customizable controls, and is designed for travel and on-the-go gaming.
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