The new 8BitDo mini controller for Xbox is perfect for gamers with small hands.
You know, for the kids.
8BitDo has introduced a new version of its wired Xbox Ultimate C controller, which is now 20% smaller and 10% lighter while maintaining full-sized buttons, joysticks, and triggers. Although the Ultimate Mini is specifically designed for kids and teenagers, it is also appealing to any gamer with smaller hands who struggles with the size and weight of standard controllers.
Weighing in at 189.6 grams, it is significantly lighter than the 287 grams of the Xbox Series S and X controllers, including batteries, and weighs less than half of "The Duke," the wired controllers that weighed 550 grams and were shipped with the original Xbox console. It is currently available in the United States through Amazon for $34.99, as well as on the 8BitDo online store.
The design of the Ultimate Mini maintains the same layout as the larger Xbox controllers, although the action buttons, directional pad, and Hall effect joysticks that resist wear are positioned closer together. Additionally, it includes Hall effect triggers at the back, along with a pair of slightly smaller shoulder buttons.
A ring of LEDs around each joystick allows for different interactive lighting modes. The controller is available in translucent cases of white, pink, or green, which enhances the visibility of the LED ring. This effect, called Fire Ring, features several lighting modes that respond to button presses, flashes, color cycles, or follow the direction of each joystick.
The 8BitDo Ultimate Mini is compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series S and X consoles, as well as PCs running Windows 10 or 11. Although it lacks wireless connectivity, which helps keep its weight down by not requiring batteries, parents with children prone to frustration in games and throwing their controllers might want to carefully consider the choice of a gamepad that is tethered to the console, without a safety connector.
