GoKawiilCRKD launches Atom Plus, a $29.99 pocket-size gamepad with dual thumbsticks
CRKD has released the Atom Plus, a compact gamepad priced at $29.99 that measures about 3.5 inches wide, slightly smaller than the 8BitDo Zero 2. Despite its small size, it includes symmetrical analog thumbsticks with anti-drift magnetoresistance sensors, shoulder buttons and triggers, rumble feedback, a home button, motion controls, and app-based customization. It works across platforms including Switch, Switch 2, PCs, Android, iOS, and smart TVs, switching between them via Bluetooth pairing modes triggered by button combinations at power-up.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
The product targets a gap for travelers and portable gamers who want full controller functionality without the bulk of standard gamepads, a need the reviewer describes from personal experience with Switch accessories. Packing thumbsticks and triggers into a smaller shell than competitors like the 8BitDo Zero 2 suggests manufacturers are pushing to miniaturize controllers without sacrificing features. However, the reviewer notes ergonomic tradeoffs for users with larger hands, indicating portability gains may come at the cost of comfort for some.
- CRKD's Atom Plus costs $29.99 and is smaller than the 8BitDo Zero 2 while adding thumbsticks and triggers.
- It supports multiple platforms including Switch, Switch 2, PC, Android, iOS, and smart TVs.
- Device switching relies on manual Bluetooth mode button combinations, which the reviewer found hard to remember.
CRKD Atom Plus Controller — This tiny controller packs dual analog thumbsticks with anti-drift tech, shoulder buttons, triggers, and motion controls into a super portable form factor—perfect for gaming on the go with your Switch 2 or mobile device. It's exactly the kind of compact yet capable gamepad the article highlights for travelers who want more functionality than the 8BitDo Zero 2 offers.
See CRKD Atom Plus Controller on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: theverge.com — Andrew Liszewski, 2026-11-14
Published there as: “This tiny gamepad with dual analog thumbsticks pushes the limits of portable controllers”
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