Review: Valve’s Steam Controller Is a Genuine First-Party Pro Controller for PC
Valve is launching its new Steam Controller on May 4th for $99 (£85/€99), offering a PC-focused gamepad that emphasizes mouse-like trackpad inputs alongside traditional console controls. The device features wireless 2.4 GHz connectivity through a dedicated puck that serves as both receiver and charging dock, with setup via a included USB-C to USB-A cable.
Originally conceived as part of a broader hardware initiative alongside the Steam Machine and Steam Frame, the controller arrives as a standalone product. Its early launch ahead of the delayed Steam Machine reveals broader industry supply constraints. According to Valve hardware engineer Steve Cardinali, the controller’s lack of RAM components insulates it from the ongoing memory shortage crisis affecting semiconductor availability across the sector. Even Valve’s considerable resources cannot circumvent these constraints, which designers Lawrence Yang and Cardinali acknowledged have impacted industry timelines universally.
The controller ships exclusively in black at launch, but accessory manufacturer Dbrand has announced 44 custom skins to provide additional cosmetic options. Early reviews have been generally positive, though some observers flagged the $99 price point and potential platform compatibility concerns as considerations for prospective buyers.
In related news, Valve confirmed active development of Steam Deck 2 while prioritizing stock availability for current Deck models amid ongoing supply-chain challenges.
Sources
- Review: Valve’s Steam Controller Is a Genuine First-Party Pro Controller for PC
- Valve Reveals Why New Steam Controller is Launching Before Steam Machine
- ‘We’ve never met a cult we didn’t want to be a part of, so we’re getting in on the ground floor’: Dbrand announces skins for the new Steam Controller in the most Dbrand way
- “We’re just as impacted as everyone else”: Valve explain Steam Machine delays and why the Steam Controller is coming out sooner
- As the Steam Controller breaks cover, Valve say they’re hard at work on the Steam Deck 2 and keeping current Decks in stock
- Our Steam Controller second opinion: what works, what doesn’t, and what Valve should add for the next one
- Valve’s $99 Steam Controller has a big problem — and it’s not the price