Second-generation Steam Controller arrives in May with new magnetic technology

Valve presents its new Steam Controller, launched this Monday, May 4, 2026. The peripheral marks the company’s return to the control market after 11 years, bringing a completely redesigned generation that abandoned the controversial 2015 model based on trackpads.

The new controller arrives with a price of €99.00 and exclusive availability in the Steam store. Diferente of conventional gamepads, the Valve positioned the product in the premium category, competing with Elite models from competing brands that exceed €200.00.

Especificações techniques and innovations

The second-generation Steam Controller maintains the hybrid design that inherited technologies from the Steam Deck. Seu front panel, however, generated comparisons to the controversial Xbox Duke due to its square formats and concentration of input elements.

The joysticks use TMR magnetic technology, a system developed to permanently solve the problem of drift — a phenomenon that affects traditional gamepads, including the Joy-Cons and Nintendo. The company equipped the controller with two standard-sized joysticks and two square tactile trackpads located below them.

The setup presents ergonomic challenges. Jogadores with smaller hands may experience difficulty navigating between joysticks, action buttons, and trackpads simultaneously. The dense front panel packs multiple input options into a compact space.

Recursos Advanced and Customization

Quatro configurable buttons occupy the back of the controller, allowing your thumbs to remain on the analog sticks during navigation. Novo feature called “Grip Sense” detects grip pressure and activates specific functions, such as the gyroscope, using sensors integrated into the grips.

Esse mechanism offers interesting possibilities. Practice will be necessary to avoid accidental activations during gameplay.

The battery works for up to 35 hours and recharges via a magnetic disc that acts as a wireless receiver and simultaneous base. The Valve made future maintenance easier: the housing uses just seven standard screws, reducing technical barriers to repairs.

Conectividade and limitations

The new control does not incorporate a 3.5 mm input for wired headphones — a notable absence in a device in this price category. Usuários will be required to opt for Bluetooth connectivity or wireless headphones.

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Distribution remains exclusive to the Steam store, in line with Valve’s historical policy. Diferentemente of conventional gamepads available at multiple retailers, the Steam Controller requires direct purchase through the company’s platform.

Contexto release

Onze years separate this model from 2015’s first Steam Controller, which eliminated the right joystick in favor of two large haptic trackpads meant to simulate mouse precision. Aquele’s innovative design never achieved expected adoption. Valve discontinued production in 2019.

The new Steam Controller arrives with the responsibility of complementing the future Steam Machine, a dedicated console still under development. Este launch marks the company’s most ambitious attempt in the entry-level peripheral segment after the previous failure.

The competition’s premium prices — Razer Raiju V3 Pro costs around €200 — contextualize the €99.00 position. The Valve justifies its value with the advanced hardware features integrated into the new design.

Posicionamento on the market

The Steam Controller avoids direct comparison with standard gamepads selling between €65 and €75. Seu targets consumers willing to invest in equipment with proprietary technologies, greater durability through magnetic TMR and multiple layers of customization.

Alguns analysts point out that:

• TMR magnetic technology represents advancement in joystick longevity
• The square trackpads maintain the Valve’s distinctive legacy
• Pressure sensors (Grip Sense) require behavioral adaptation from the player
• The lack of integrated audio represents a disadvantage compared to modern gamepads
• Exclusive distribution limits market reach compared to competitors

Acceptance of the new Steam Controller will depend on adoption among Steam Deck owners and gaming peripheral enthusiasts. The first model failed to gain a mainstream audience. Esta second attempt brings significantly advanced technology, but maintains design that continues to fragment the input experience.