Valve’s new Steam Controller isn’t perfect, but I’m buying one anyway
Valve’s latest Steam Controller brings a much-desired level of customization and compatibility, especially for those who enjoy the flexibility of the Steam Deck. After two weeks of testing, it’s clear that the controller changes the couch gaming experience by seamlessly transferring custom control layouts between devices.
Custom Controls and Seamless Experience
One of the Steam Controller’s main selling points is its remarkable customization. You can remap every button and input, allowing for unique play styles whether you’re fending off enemies in Resident Evil 2 or building strategies in Vampire Crawlers. Profiles you create for the Steam Deck also sync effortlessly to the Steam Controller, preserving muscle memory when switching between devices or gaming on a friend’s setup.
Comfort and Build Quality
The Steam Controller feels solid and comfortable in hand, with well-placed buttons, crisp rumble feedback, and satisfyingly firm D-pad and action buttons. The shape and feel closely resemble the Steam Deck, making the transition virtually seamless for Deck owners. The new Quick Access button also provides easy adjustments, such as changing volume on the fly.
Connectivity and Features
Connecting the controller is straightforward with multiple options: the included USB-C puck for low-latency 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth, or direct USB-C cable. A small color-changing LED indicates your connection method and alerts you to updates. The battery offers over 35 hours of playtime, is removable and rechargeable, and Valve promises easy replacement options in the future.
Trackpads, Grip Sense, and Limitations
Valve included trackpads for mouse-style control, but their placement can be awkward for extended use. The newly added Grip Sense feature lets you map grip sensors as extra buttons, which works well for gyro controls but may not replace traditional triggers for everyone. One downside: there’s no headphone jack, which may be inconvenient for those used to wired audio.
Should You Buy It?
Priced at $99, the Steam Controller is a premium option, but its versatility, build quality, and seamless integration with the Steam Deck make it a standout for serious PC gamers. Unless you rely heavily on trackpads or need a headphone jack, it’s likely to be the best choice for Valve fans and customization enthusiasts.
For more details and insights, read the original review at The Verge.
