Valve’s new Steam Controller goes on sale for $99 starting May 4th. The accessory features dual trackpads, joysticks with TMR technology to prevent drift and the Grip Sense feature that detects when the user holds the control. Ele reproduces most of the Steam Deck controls for use on PCs connected to the TV.
The Valve positions the product as a bridge between the portable Steam Deck and living room setups. The control works mainly within the Steam ecosystem, with support for Windows, Mac and Deck itself. Ele does not operate natively on consoles like PlayStation or Xbox. Usuários can add games from other stores to Steam for greater compatibility.
Design and ergonomics of the new control
The Steam Controller weighs around 292 grams, which makes it a little heavier than common Xbox or PlayStation controllers. Mesmo thus, the elongated shape of the grips offers a good grip and avoids unwanted touching on the back. The layout is reminiscent of the Steam Deck, with symmetrical sticks, D-pad and trackpads positioned below.
The joysticks use TMR technology, which significantly reduces the risk of drift and improves accuracy. The rear buttons fall naturally into the hands, unlike those on the Deck, where they are flatter. The triggers and bumpers have a satisfying click and consistent plastic material.
The front design concentrates weight, but the length of the grips balances the whole. Usuários with medium hands report comfort during long sessions. The absence of a headphone jack is a limitation compared to some competitors.
Connectivity and Charging Recursos
The controller includes a magnetic puck that functions as a 2.4 GHz transmitter and charging base. Basta brings the Steam Controller closer together for effortless attachment and reloading. Ele also supports Bluetooth and direct USB-C connection.
The 8.39 Whr internal battery offers up to 35 hours of use, according to Valve. Actual performance varies depending on gyroscope and haptics activation. The puck facilitates quick reloads between matches, which reduces concerns about autonomy.
- Trackpads double slightly inclined for better alignment with the grips
- Quatro ergonomically positioned back buttons
- Joysticks capacitive TMR with touch
- Botão Steam and Quick Access repositioned
- Suporte for gyroscope and Grip Sense for footprint detection
Configuração and customization in Steam
Configuration requires familiarity with the platform. Steam Input allows you to remap all buttons, trackpads and sticks per game. Perfis ready-made games optimized for Deck make it easy to get started.
Recursos and Grip Sense activate gyroscope only when the user holds the controller with both hands. Isso helps with titles that switch between modes. The detailed configurator suits advanced users, but may intimidate beginners. Valve prepares tutorials for release.
The control does not natively emulate XInput outside of Steam. Jogos from other stores need to be manually added to the library. In tests, titles such as Resident Evil 9, Marvel Snap and SoulCalibur 6 responded well after adjustments. Fortnite required extra configuration and delivered inferior experience.
Desempenho in games and limitations
Jogadores can use trackpads as a mouse in strategy or as a virtual keyboard. The sticks deliver precision in action. The gyroscope helps with aiming or navigation, with adjustable sensitivity.
The Steam Controller shines in couch sessions with PC on TV and Big Picture Mode. Ele replicates the feel of the Deck in stationary setups. Compatibility is limited to the Steam ecosystem in most cases.
Concorrentes like Xbox Wireless or DualSense cost less and work on more platforms. Premium Modelos like Elite Series 2 or DualSense Edge offer different extras, but Steam Controller balances price and features for Valve fans.
Ficha Steam Controller technique
Peso:Aproximadamente 292 gramsBateria:Até 35 hours (ideal conditions)Conectividade:Puck 2.4GHz, Bluetooth, USB-CJoysticks:2x TMR with capacitive touchPreço:$99Disponibilidade:From May 4th in the Steam store
The accessory strengthens the ecosystem that includes Steam Machine and Steam Frame in the future. Para who lives in the Steam, it transforms the living room experience. Casual Usuários may prefer cheaper and more universal options.