2 weeks ago
Talha Sonmez
Valve is officially launching its new [Steam Controller](https://amzn.to/4cMfthv) on May 4, bringing back the company's gamepad line with a redesigned model that arrives ahead of the long-awaited Steam Machine and Steam Frame devices.
The controller will be priced at $99 in the US, €99 across Europe, £85 in the UK, $149 CAD in Canada and $149 AUD in Australia. Unlike previous expectations that it would launch alongside other hardware, Valve is releasing the controller as a standalone product. In contrast, its wider hardware plans remain unfinished.
A New Design With Familiar Features
The new Steam Controller moves away from the original 2015 version's unusual layout and adopts a more conventional design. It includes two TMR magnetic thumbsticks, two haptic trackpads, a D-pad, ABXY face buttons, gyro controls, HD haptics, Grip Sense support and four remappable rear buttons.
Valve is also bundling the controller with the Steam Controller Puck. This 2.4GHz wireless receiver doubles as a magnetic charging dock.
According to TechRadar, the controller offers battery life of more than 35 hours and supports multiple connection methods, including the Steam Controller Puck, USB and Bluetooth.
Valve Preparing for Demand
Extra details shared by The Verge suggest Valve is taking the launch seriously, though supply could still be tight. The company reportedly says it has already built a "significant quantity" of controllers and has enough production capacity to make more if demand is strong.
Valve also confirmed it is still working with iFixit to offer replacement parts, continuing its recent push toward repairability.
Interestingly, Valve said this controller is not being assembled entirely by robots, unlike the original Steam Controller. The company also noted that it may add more battery-life indicators in Steam and could consider future options such as adjustable controller speaker volume.
Some experimental ideas did not make the final product. Valve reportedly tested touch-sensitive bumpers and other features, but left them out due to cost, weight or reliability concerns.
Price Impacted by Shipping Costs
Valve indicated the controller may cost slightly more than originally planned due to current shipping conditions. Rising transport costs, both by sea and air, appear to be a factor.
Early Reviews Are Positive
Initial reviews have been largely favourable. The Verge says the controller retains Steam Deck-style control profiles and customisation, making it especially appealing for Steam Deck owners who dock their handheld to a TV.
TechRadar described it as a major improvement over the original Steam Controller. However, it also highlighted several drawbacks, including the premium price, lack of console support and the absence of a 3.5mm audio jack.
Works Beyond Steam Machines
Valve is also making sure the controller is not tied to its unreleased hardware ecosystem. The Verge reports it works with any computer running Steam and can also function as a generic controller for phones.
That flexibility could make it more attractive to PC players looking for a premium pad without having to wait for Valve's other devices.
Steam Machine Still Waiting
While the Steam Machine and Steam Frame remain on Valve's roadmap, neither device has a final launch update yet. Valve reportedly says the new controller is ready now, while the rest of its hardware plans continue in development.
For PC gamers, that means the Steam Controller becomes the first retail product from Valve's 2026 hardware lineup, arriving months before any larger platform announcements.
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