Why Valve's Steam Controller Stands Out for PC Gaming?

Steam Controller is being sold as a separate product, even though the Steam Machine is still having problems. It's one of many high-end controllers from well-known names that cost $99.99.  At first glance, its design makes it stand out, but its full potential isn't clear until you play it for a long time on multiple gaming systems.

Steam Controller doesn't look like anything you've seen before. The two trackpads, button configuration, and shape lend it a unique personality that fits right in with Valve's other products.

It's quite similar to the Steam Deck - perhaps a condensed version without the screen. Its form starts to make sense as soon as you pick it up. Every button, stick, and mouse is in the right spot. Some game controls look better than this one, but this one works. It also goes well with the Steam Deck, which is part of Valve's hardware line.

Fast Connectivity Across Multiple Devices

The best thing about it is how easy it is to use. When you take the controller off of its magnetic stand or unplug it from its USB-C cable, it instantly pairs with the console. This makes the process of taking it out of its dock and playing music smooth.

The 2.4 GHz link on the wireless puck gives it low latency. It also works with Bluetooth, which makes it easy to connect to a PC, the Steam Deck, or other devices. The puck can work with up to 4 controllers, which makes multiplayer games more flexible. This makes it a great option for those who play games on multiple systems.

A Better Fit for Modern PC Gaming

The Steam Controller spans the divide between PC gaming, the living room, and on-the-go. Moving from an ultrawide PC monitor to a TV and back to a Steam Deck while on the road - it's all natural.

We found the feature particularly useful for device switching. Rather than having to repair each time, the controller stays on standby with the puck plugged in. If you switch devices for gaming, it's a pleasure to use.

Trackpads That Actually Matter

The two trackpads are not just a looker. They offer accurate mouse control, particularly in Steam's Big Picture Mode or on desktop operating systems. If you've ever found the old-fashioned game controller navigation of menus to be clumsy, the trackpads fix that. 

The search, browse, and settings menus are quicker and easier to navigate. They also make it easier to interact with your desktop without needing a mouse and keyboard. That's a feature not to be sneezed at for couch gaming on PC.

Steam Input Integration Works Out of the Box

Thanks to its integration with Steam, all Steam Input features are available. All the community schemes, personal mappings, and game-specific settings from the Steam Deck are automatically imported. You can browse and install control schemes or build your own. The full Steam Input library will be available when you plug in the controller, allowing for a high degree of customization with no additional downloads.

The analog sticks use TMR, which should help prevent drift. The button layout is very similar to the Steam Deck, but with some subtle improvements. The D-pad is more ergonomic, particularly for fighting games.

Its location is enhanced by the controller's lighter, smaller size. The face buttons are a good balance of soft and tactile. We also prefer the back paddles in comparison to the Steam Deck. They're easy to reach and offer a level of resistance to avoid accidental actuation.

Comfortable Triggers and Shoulder Buttons

Triggers have good resistance and travel. The shoulder buttons are quieter and less firm than those on the Steam Deck, which makes it more comfortable to play for longer periods. Valve has done a good job with the input. Buttons are crisp, but not too stiff or clicky.

Gyro support is available for those who want to use it for aiming or additional controls. It's grip-based and configurable with Steam Input. If you like to use gyro, the controller has you covered. If not, it gets out of the way.

Repairability Is a Major Win

The Steam Controller, like the Steam Deck, is meant to be repaired. The shell is held together with screws and not clips or other specialty hardware. You will be able to purchase replacement parts from iFixit, and guides are planned. This allows you to repair it yourself, rather than relying on the company. This is a great feature if you plan to keep your controller.

The Steam Controller's $99.99 price places it in the "high-end" controller market.

Rival controllers from Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo tend to be equally or more expensive. For its construction quality, connection options, repairability, and Steam compatibility, it's well worth the cost. For a PC gaming controller, it's a great option. We highly recommend it, especially if you play many Steam games.

Valve has announced that pre-orders will open on May 4. Valve says that orders will ship within regions from stock and distribution that are ready to go. If you're looking for one, mark your calendar for May 4. Once you order, you should receive your unit after a few days or weeks, depending on stock in your region.