Introduction
If you've ever wanted a gamepad that you can carry on your keyring or slip into your pocket, the Q36 might be the one for you.
Designed with portability in mind, this compact Bluetooth gamepad is surprisingly capable for its size. Despite being smaller than many smartwatches, it supports Android, iOS, and Windows, offering three different control modes and a full set of buttons. But does it actually perform in real-world gaming? Let’s take a closer look.
Package Contents
Inside the packaging, you’ll find:
- Q36 Mini Game Controller
- Lanyard
- User Manual
It’s a minimalist bundle, but everything you need to get started is included—just bring your own USB-C cable for charging.
Features & Specifications
The Q36 makes a strong first impression with its build. Despite its featherweight 24-gram frame and plastic construction, the controller feels well made, with a decent bit of heft that gives it a premium touch. The buttons offer a surprisingly satisfying tactile response — a gentle snap that’s quiet, responsive, and doesn’t feel cramped, despite the unit’s tiny footprint.
There are three operational modes built into the controller:
- X Mode – Connects as an Xbox-style controller
- D Mode – HID device, offering Android system control shortcuts
- V Mode – For ShootingPlus V3 app for touchscreen mapping
Each mode is indicated by a different LED colour: blue for X mode, red for D mode, and green for V mode. Switching between them is done via a small switch on the underside of the unit.
Connectivity is handled via Bluetooth 5.0 with a practical range of up to 8 metres. Charging is via USB-C, with a full charge taking 1 to 2 hours on a 5V/2A plug. You’ll get up to 8 hours of active playtime, with an impressive standby time of around 30 days. The internal 180mAh battery is more than adequate for casual gaming sessions.
Button layout includes a full D-pad, XYAB buttons, Start, Select, and Home on the front. Shoulder buttons L1, L2, R1, and R2 sit along the top edge, alongside the USB-C port. The buttons are almost silent when pressed, making it ideal for gaming in quiet environments like trains or shared spaces.
Depending on which mode you’re using, the functions of some buttons change. For example, in D mode, the D-pad can control media playback on Android (e.g., volume and track skipping), while X and Y buttons function as Home and Mute.
ShootingPlus V3
The Q36 supports the ShootingPlus V3 app on Android, which allows users to map physical controller buttons to touchscreen controls in mobile games. This is particularly handy for titles that don’t offer native controller support.
The app interface may take a little getting used to, but once configured, it offers an extra layer of control customisation. You can set up joystick sensitivity, reposition on-screen buttons, and tailor the controller layout to suit first-person shooters, racing games, and more.
Keep in mind that compatibility may vary depending on your device and the game, but for many Android users, it’s a worthwhile addition that unlocks extra potential from the Q36.
Final Thoughts
The Q36 is a clever little device — brilliantly compact, surprisingly well-built, and genuinely useful. While its size can make it slightly fiddly for long sessions, it’s ideal for quick gaming on the go, controlling media, or throwing into your travel bag just in case.
The buttons feel great to press — soft, silent, but with a satisfying response — and the Bluetooth performance is solid. It’s not a replacement for a full-sized controller, but that’s not the point. It’s all about convenience, portability, and giving you more control in a very small package.
If you’re after a pocket-sized gamepad that doesn’t feel like a toy, the Q36 is well worth a look.
Where To Buy
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