20 August 2023 , 09:00
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If you're looking for a more customisable experience on a budget and aren't bothered by cables, then the Pro Compact Controller might be for you.
The Pro Compact Controller from Nacon is an officially licensed wired Xbox controller that is compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and PC. Despite being wired, the gamepad provides you with a whole host of customisation and remapping options via a downloadable app on the Microsoft Store; something which is usually exclusive to higher-end controllers.
If you're hoping to pick up the Pro Compact Controller it comes in at £34.99 / $29.99 for the standard editions or £39.99 / $54.90 for the Colorlight edition that we tested, which is completely transparent. These controllers aren't available in Australia but this converts to AU$47 and AU$84 respectively. For comparison, the standard Xbox Wireless controller will set you back £54.99 / $54.99 / AU$89.95 and is wireless but doesn't allow you to remap buttons.
Nacon Pro Compact Controller design
The body of the Pro Compact Controller Colorlight being transparent is likely the first thing you'll notice when taking it out of the box and despite this not being to everyone's taste, it absolutely tickles my fancy. You're able to see all of the components inside of the controller which makes for a really cool effect but can be tacky to some. If it isn't your cup of tea then you can also pick up the Pro Compact Controller Colour Light in Red, Blue, Black, White and Grey.
The controller has an ergonomic design and is 15% smaller than a classic game controller making for an easier grip for a wider range of hand sizes. The smooth plastic doesn't make for the best grip in the world which is something to bear in mind.
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You also get RGB that can be controlled using two buttons on the back, one to switch it on and off and the other to change the setting. Although the RGB isn't glaring, it's a nice addition and of course, I'm never opposed to some fancy lighting. In terms of layout, the controller is asymmetrical and features a standard Xbox layout with A/B/X/Y inputs. For those who prefer a PlayStation layout, then, this isn't going to be the gamepad for you.
Nacon Pro Compact Controller features
Despite being plug-in-and-play, the Pro Compact Controller Colorlight also allows you to download a dedicated app from the Microsoft Store which gives you access to advanced settings. This means you can customise all your buttons, change your stick settings and adjust your trigger sensitivity controls, giving you another level of customisation over a standard Xbox Wireless Controller.
Nacon Pro Compact specifications
- Form factor: Asymmetrical
- Connectivity: Wired via USB
- Compatibility: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC
- Extra buttons: No
- Adaptive triggers: No
The Pro Compact Controller Colorlight is wired only and features a 3m cable which is USB-A. It's only compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S and Windows PC.
Nacon Pro Compact Controller performance
When first picking up the Pro Compact Controller Colorlight, I was a little bit sceptical as the gamepad is extremely lightweight. However, this actually ended up contributing to the comfort I felt using the controller for long periods of time – even over my standard Xbox Wireless Controller. The only downside was the lack of grips, which was fine for me as I'm not someone that typically finds myself losing traction on my gamepad but it may be an issue for others.
The inputs from the controller itself suffered from absolutely no lag due to the wired connection and all felt really satisfying and simple to use. (Nacon)The inputs from the controller itself suffered from absolutely no lag due to the wired connection and all felt really satisfying and simple to use. The ability to completely customise the mapping of the controller is typically absent from gamepads at this price point, so this was a refreshing option on offer here.
Overall thoughts on the Pro Compact Controller
The Pro Compact Controller Colorlight is a fantastic budget controller, which offers customisation options that typically aren't found in gamepads at this price point. However, you are giving up wireless connectivity which leads to less compatibility when compared to the Xbox Wireless controller.
Score: 5/5