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Valve Launches $99 Steam Controller, Steam Machine Delayed

4/28/2026

Summary

Valve Launches Steam Controller

Valve released the Steam Controller in the United States on May 4, 2026, for $99.
It works only with Steam or Steam Link on PCs, Macs and the Steam Deck.
The controller includes two trackpads under thumbsticks, a button array, and a detachable charging puck.
Valve plans support for the Steam Machine console and Steam Frame VR headset, with the Steam Machine’s early-2026 launch delayed due to memory shortages.

Summary

Valve Unveils Controller

Valve released the Steam Controller, entering the console market against Xbox, Sony and Nintendo.
Reviewers recorded over 35 hours of battery life and no latency via Bluetooth, USB or the charging puck.
Its TMR joysticks matched the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro’s precision, though its haptic feedback fell short of Sony’s DualSense.
Valve’s magnetic charging puck, with infrared LEDs and gyroscopic sensors, enables VR tracking while charging two controllers simultaneously via a “sucker-fish” latch.

Summary

Valve Partners with iFixit

Valve will source Steam Controller replacement parts through a partnership with iFixit.
A significant quantity of controllers has already been built, with capacity to scale production.
Higher fuel costs for sea and air shipping may cause a modest price increase.
Future firmware could let users adjust the controller’s speaker volume, a feature under review.
Touch-sensitive bumpers were prototyped but dropped because of cost and reliability concerns.

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Valve Launches Steam Controller

Valve released the Steam Controller in the United States on May 4, 2026, for $99.
It works only with Steam or Steam Link on PCs, Macs and the Steam Deck.
The controller includes two trackpads under thumbsticks, a button array, and a detachable charging puck.
Valve plans support for the Steam Machine console and Steam Frame VR headset, with the Steam Machine’s early-2026 launch delayed due to memory shortages.

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