Valve launches $99 wireless controller with integrated trackpads and gyroscope

Valve made available this week the new Steam Controller, a wireless accessory that transplants the layout of the Steam Deck controls into a portable format. The device costs $99 and is on sale now, with delivery underway for early adopters. The announcement comes before the launch of the Steam Frame and Steam Machine, still scheduled for this year, but with no confirmed date or price.

The controller features two analog joysticks, two capacitive touchpads on the bottom half, and two sets of paddle buttons on the back. Inclui also has a gyroscope for aiming and pointing in compatible games. The battery offers extended autonomy, with recharging via a wireless magnetic disk that also works as a dedicated receiver for ultra-fast connection.

Especificações and performance of the new accessory

The Steam Controller combines haptic vibration with touch-sensitive touchpads, offering virtual click feedback. The body stands out for its density and robustness, being heavier than a standard PlayStation controller, but with a feeling described as dense and comfortable. Vibration ranges from strong to incredibly subtle, replicating feedbacks found in the Steam Deck OLED.

Initial Testes with the fast-paced indie shooter Sektori demonstrated response times comparable to the directly connected Steam Deck. The controller works via the universal Bluetooth or via the dedicated wireless disk included in the box. Até four controllers can simultaneously connect to the same disc, facilitating multiplayer gaming on the couch.

The wireless solution stands out for its practicality: the disk connects to a USB-C to USB-A cable coupled to the Steam Dock, eliminating additional cables. Magnetic docking allows for quick detachment for hassle-free recharging.

Compatibilidade and practical use

Steam Controller works with Steam Deck, PCs, Macs, and Linux computers running Steam platform games. Usuários can pair multiple controllers with multiple devices, although the dedicated wireless channel offers lower latency than the standard Bluetooth.

Testadores report a satisfactory experience using the control with Steam Deck docked and connected to the living room TV. The setup offers a genuine home console feel, unlike the previous handheld experience. Trackpads does not hinder comfort during conventional use, even when not used frequently.

The device also works as a universal controller for games outside the Steam ecosystem, as long as they support input via Bluetooth. Especificações techniques include:

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• Dois analog joysticks with standard resistance
• Dois generous capacitive touchpads on base
• Dois touch-sensitive rear paddle button sets
• Six-axis Giroscópio for motion control
• Vibração tactile with multiple intensity levels
• Internal Bateria with magnetic recharge
• Dedicated wireless Conexão or Bluetooth 5.0

Timing’s launch and future products

Valve chose to release just the Steam Controller first while awaiting completion of the more complex hardware. Lawrence Yang, software and user interface designer, and Jeff Mucha, electrical engineer, confirmed that Steam Frame and Steam Machine follow an internal schedule for availability in 2025. Nenhum price has been released for these products.

A global shortage of RAM memory was among the reasons cited for delays in production of the larger hardware. The company decided to prioritize the controller, an essential accessory to expand the Steam Deck experience to living room environments, leaving consoles and virtual reality headsets for later.

Fontes internals indicate that the focus on Steam Controller represents Valve’s conscious strategy to consolidate supply before launching products that depend on more complex supply chains. The controller alone offers a huge increase in usability for those who own Steam Deck or Steam Machines when they are released.

Análise compared to competitors

In direct comparisons with PlayStation 5’s DualSense controls and Xbox Series X|S, the Steam Controller stands out for its input customization and layout familiar to Steam Deck users. Testes indicate that the controller offers superior ergonomics for extended gaming sessions, despite the slightly heavier weight.

The new accessory’s haptic vibration varies in granularity, providing more detailed feedback than commercially available alternatives. Touchpads, often ignored by casual gamers, adds an extra layer of control for those who regularly use desktop mode on Steam Deck or prefer gesture input.

Ainda There are doubts about the final price of the Steam Dock, sold separately for US$79. Alternative, lower-cost port Extensores offer similar functionality, making the complete solution potentially more affordable than the official Valve approach.