Hardware FixRecommendedDevice not working? Your driver may be the problemCheck updates for common hardware issues.Fix DriversHalloween DealsAmazon USHalloween week deals: useful picks before month-endAmazon US: current deals, useful picks and tech finds.Check DealsClean PCRecommendedOne scan can reveal what keeps slowing WindowsLook for cleanup and repair opportunities.Run Scan×
FREEDOM251

Freedom251 › Blog › Bluetooth controllers

CRKD’s tiny controller gets a growth spurt: Is the Atom+ the ideal travel pad?

By Freedom251 Team · · 4 min read

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

CRKD’s $29.99 Atom+ adds the controls modern games demand without giving up the original Atom’s pocket-sized idea. It is a Bluetooth controller for Nintendo Switch 2, Switch, PCs and handheld PCs, mobile devices, tablets and smart TVs. Two thumbsticks, triggers, shoulder buttons, vibration and motion control make it far more capable than a simple retro pad.

That makes the Atom+ compelling for travel, but “easy to carry” is not the same as “comfortable for a five-hour session.” CRKD has not published a battery-life figure, and independent long-session comfort or durability testing is not yet established.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

What changed from the original Atom

The original Atom’s appeal was its extremely small footprint. Atom+ keeps that portability while adding a fuller control layout: two thumbsticks, triggers, shoulder buttons and modern gamepad functions. TechRadar’s March 26, 2026 launch report says the sticks use TMR sensors, and that the new model adds vibration and motion control.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

CRKD describes Atom+ as “a mini Bluetooth® gaming controller designed for powerful, portable play.” The company’s global brand manager, Jack Guinchard, said the goal was a gamepad “powerful enough for modern gameplay while still being small enough to take anywhere.”

#1 Best Overall
Elebase USB to USB C Adapter for iPhone 18 Pro Max,USBC Car Charger Adapter | 4Pack Type C Female to A Male Cable Converter for Apple Duo 17 16 15 14 Plus,iWatch Watch 12 11 10,iPad 9 8 Air,Airpods 5 4
  • Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
  • Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
  • Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
  • Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
  • 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.

Platforms and controls

CRKD lists Atom+ for Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch, PC and PC handhelds, phones, tablets and smart TVs. Bluetooth pairing handles the connection, while USB-C recharges the built-in battery.

Controls for modern games

  • Two thumbsticks for camera and movement controls.
  • Triggers and shoulder buttons for games that need a complete console-style layout.
  • Dual four-way toggle buttons.
  • Vibration feedback and motion controls.
  • Programmable buttons and custom macros through the CRKD Companion App.
  • Turbo functionality for supported use cases.

The result should cover platformers, action games, racing titles and many contemporary console or PC releases that are impractical on a single-stick micro-controller. Its small size still means the controls are physically closer together than on a conventional pad, so players with larger hands may prefer it for shorter sessions.

Rank #2
Sale
Anker USB-C Hub, 5-in-1 USB Hub for Laptops, 4K HDMI Multiport Adapter | USB C Dongle with 90W Max Power Delivery, 3×5Gbps USB A Data Ports, for MacBook, Dell, and More (Charger Not Included)
  • 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
  • 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
  • Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
  • 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

What TMR sticks mean for drift

CRKD markets Atom+’s TMR thumbsticks as eliminating stick drift. In its FAQ, the company explains that TMR sensing uses magnets, like Hall-effect designs, and claims higher sensitivity, faster response and lower power consumption.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Those are manufacturer claims, not independent Atom+ test results. No published third-party drift measurement or long-term wear test establishes how the sticks perform after months of use. Treat the TMR design as a promising durability feature rather than a guarantee that a particular unit can never develop a fault.

Rank #3
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 7in1 Multi-Port USB Adapter, 4K@60Hz USBC to HDMI Splitter | 85W Max PD, 2 USB 3.0 & 1 USBC Data Ports, SD/TF Card Reader, for Laptops/Mac and Other Type C Devices (Charger Not Included)
  • Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
  • Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
  • Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
  • Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
  • What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.

Why it makes sense for travel

Portability is Atom+’s clearest advantage. The controller is designed to fit in a pocket or attach to a bag with its included wrist strap, while still providing dual sticks, triggers and shoulder buttons. That is useful for a Switch 2 in a hotel, a handheld PC on a train or a phone mounted for cloud gaming.

The predecessor Atom was reviewed by PC Gamer as a travel companion, but that is context about the earlier model—not a hands-on test of Atom+. There is no published Atom+ battery-runtime figure, so pack a USB-C cable rather than planning around an assumed number of hours. Likewise, no independent long-session comfort test has established whether the compact shell remains comfortable after extended play.

Rank #4
Sale
UGREEN USB to USB C Adapter Combo 4-Pack, 10Gbps USB C Converter Space Gray | Data transfer & Fast charging for MacBook, iPhone 17/16/15, iPad, Samsung Galaxy, Apple Watch
  • Dual Converters, Infinite Potential:Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
  • Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
  • Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
  • Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
  • Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft

Atom+ versus a full-size Bluetooth controller

Factor CRKD Atom+ Typical full-size Bluetooth pad
Portability Palm-sized; pocket or bag strap friendly Bulkier and usually carried separately
Modern controls Two sticks, triggers, shoulders, motion and vibration Usually a full-size layout
Stick technology TMR; drift-elimination claim from CRKD Varies by model; independent testing required
Customization Programmable buttons, macros, turbo and Companion App support Varies by model and software
Long-session ergonomics Not independently established Generally benefits from a larger grip, depending on design
Battery endurance Not stated by CRKD Varies by model
Official listed price $29.99 Varies by model

Choose Atom+ when luggage space and quick access matter more than maximum grip comfort. A larger controller remains the safer choice for long home sessions or games that demand precise, sustained stick and trigger input.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

Price, colors and availability

CRKD’s 2026 product listing gives Atom+ an official sale price of $29.99. TechRadar reported launch pricing of $29.99 in the US, £29.99 in the UK and AU$54.99 in Australia. The listed colorways are Smoke Black, Glacier Blue, Retro Purple and Pal Grey.

Best Value
Sale
Anker USB C Hub, 5-in-1 USBC to HDMI Splitter with 4K Display | 85W Max PD, 1 Powered USB-C 5Gbps & 2 Powered USB-A 3.0 5Gbps Data Ports, for MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, Dell and More (Black)
  • 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
  • Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
  • Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
  • HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
  • What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.

The product page lists late-June 2026 pre-order shipping. Stock and delivery dates can change, so verify the current status on CRKD’s listing before ordering. No confirmed retailer availability should be assumed from the launch announcement alone.

Who should buy the Atom+

It is a strong fit if you:

  • Need a controller that can disappear into a pocket or small travel bag.
  • Play on Switch 2, Switch, a PC handheld or mobile device and want two sticks.
  • Value remapping, macros, turbo and app-based customization.
  • Want a low-cost second controller for trips or multiplayer emergencies.

Consider a larger pad if you:

  • Usually play for several hours without breaks.
  • Have large hands or prefer widely spaced controls.
  • Require a documented battery runtime or independently verified durability.
  • Play competitively and need a full-size grip for precise inputs.

Verdict

At $29.99, Atom+ is an unusually capable travel controller: it supports Switch 2 and a broad range of Bluetooth devices, adds the two-stick layout missing from the original Atom, and includes features normally reserved for larger pads. Its limitations are evidence-related as much as physical—battery life, long-session comfort and the TMR drift claim still lack independent Atom+ testing. Buy it for portability and versatility, not as a proven replacement for a comfortable full-size controller.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Bluetooth controllersCRKD Atom+gaming hardwareNintendo SwitchNintendo Switch 2travel tech

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Recommended PC Tool
Recommended PC Tool
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You DownFree scan - exact matches
Windows Errors? Fix Them Before They SpreadFree repair scan

Two free Windows tools

One Free Minute Could Fix That PC

Before you go - each of these free tools takes about a minute and tackles what quietly slows a Windows PC down.

Special offer. View Outbyte info, uninstall instructions, EULA, and Privacy Policy.