CRKD Atom+ Finally Ships After Delays, Brings Thumbsticks to Tiny Controller
The CRKD Atom+ mini controller is now shipping globally after multiple delays. Priced at $29.99, it adds thumbsticks, TMR sticks, and motion controls to the beloved tiny retro pad.
Remember when you pre-ordered that adorable tiny controller back in March and it felt like it would never arrive? Well, good news: the CRKD Atom+ is finally shipping globally. If you got your order in early, keep an eye on your doorstep.
The $29.99 pad (or £27.99 in the UK) was originally supposed to ship in late June 2026, but that window slipped to August 17–31. Now CRKD has confirmed all four models are on their way. Better late than never, right? Some lucky folks even got theirs weeks ago—like Reddit user TheLoFiPunk, who snagged the Retro Purple version and said it was "worth it."
So what makes the Atom+ such a big deal? The original Atom was cute and pocket-sized, but it only had a d-pad, which made it awkward for anything beyond NES and SNES games. The Atom+ fixes that with two precision thumbsticks—and not just any sticks, but TMR sticks that help prevent drift. You also get digital bumper and trigger buttons, built-in vibration feedback, and motion controls. That means it's ready for Mario Kart World and other modern Switch 2 titles.
Compatibility is broad: the Atom+ works with Nintendo Switch 2, Switch OLED, iOS and Android smartphones, gaming PCs, and even smart TVs. All four retro colorways are shipping from Amazon and the CRKD online store. The lineup includes transparent Smoke Black and Glacier Blue (very early-2000s), plus Pal Grey, which mimics the PAL SNES. As a Scottish kid who grew up on Nintendo in the 90s, that Pal Grey one hits different.
If you're happy with just a d-pad and want more color options, the older $19.99 Atom is still available and also Switch 2 compatible. But for those who wanted a tiny controller that can actually handle modern games, the Atom+ looks like the upgrade we've been waiting for.
Will you be picking up an Atom+ now that it's finally shipping? Let us know in the comments!
đź“° Related Articles
PS6 Controller Could Take Contactless Payments, New Patent Suggests
A new Sony patent hints that a future PlayStation controller, possibly for PS6, might use NFC for contactless payments and easy data transfers. But don't get too excited yet.
Turtle Beach's Best Controller Gets a Fortnite Drift Makeover
Turtle Beach unveils a Fortnite-themed Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded controller, featuring Drift's iconic style. No need to be a Drift fan to love this design—it's a top-tier pick for any gamer.
Nacon Revolution 5 Unlimited: First PS5 Controller with Screen & Dock
Nacon unveils the Revolution 5 Unlimited, the first PS5 controller with a built-in screen and charging dock, plus pro features like TMR sticks and extra buttons.
Xbox Cloud Gaming Controller Reportedly Canceled
Microsoft reportedly scrapped plans for a cloud gaming controller, but denies it was due to regulators. The device was never officially announced.
8Bitdo FlipPad: The Retro Controller That Could Steal Prime Day
The 8Bitdo FlipPad is a sleek USB-C mobile controller for Game Boy games, and with Prime Day looming, it could become a no-brainer buy at around $20.
8Bitdo FlipPad Review: Sleek Game Boy Controller, But Flawed
The 8Bitdo FlipPad is a $29.99 USB-C controller that turns your phone into a Game Boy, but its sleek design comes with fit issues and limitations.