Valve Unveils Major Steam Controller Upgrade With Surprising Design
▼ Summary
– Valve announced a new Steam Controller launching in Spring 2026, designed as a significant upgrade over the previous model.
– The controller is compatible with any device running Steam, including PCs, handhelds, and mobile devices via the Steam Link app.
– It features multiple connectivity options like Bluetooth, USB-C, and a Steam Controller Puck for low-latency connections and charging.
– Valve claims over 35 hours of battery life and includes advanced inputs like TMR magnetic thumbsticks, grip sense, and haptic trackpads.
– The new design adds a second thumbstick and grip sense for improved ergonomics and functionality, though its shape may still be unergonomic.
Valve has officially pulled back the curtain on a completely redesigned Steam Controller, scheduled to arrive in Spring 2026. This new model represents a substantial evolution from the company’s earlier effort, aiming to deliver a more refined and versatile gaming experience. Built to work with any device running Steam, the controller supports PCs, PC handhelds, and the newly announced Steam Machine and Steam Frame systems. It also connects with iOS and Android mobile devices through the Steam Link application.
Multiple connectivity methods are available, including Bluetooth and wired USB Type-C. A notable accessory is the Steam Controller Puck, a plug-and-play dongle that establishes a pre-paired, low-latency wireless link. This Puck can also be used to recharge the controller, supplementing standard wired charging. On a full battery, Valve states the controller can deliver over 35 hours of gameplay, placing its endurance among the best in the industry, such as the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Key specifications for the device are outlined below.
Compatibility: PC, Mac, iOS / Android via Steam Link Connectivity: Steam Controller Puck, USB, Bluetooth Battery Life: 35+ hours Inputs: TMR magnetic thumbsticks, grip sense, ABXY buttons, D-pad, L/R triggers, L/R bumpers, View button, Menu button, Steam button, QAM buttons, four remappable grip buttons, 2x haptic trackpads Haptics: HD haptics Additional Features: Steam Controller Puck charging
This announcement naturally invites comparison to the original Steam Controller, which launched in November 2015. While that model was praised for its innovation in adapting mouse-and-keyboard games for a controller, it ultimately failed to gain widespread popularity and was discontinued after just four years.
The new version appears to address several of its predecessor’s shortcomings. A major point of improvement is the inclusion of two tunnelling magneto-resistance (TMR) thumbsticks. The first-generation controller featured only one small, awkwardly positioned thumbstick. TMR technology, considered the current gold standard, uses small magnets to deliver superior durability and reliability compared to traditional potentiometer-based sticks, which are more susceptible to wear over time.
Despite the technical upgrades, the controller’s physical shape raises some questions. Its form factor looks somewhat unconventional and may not be the most ergonomic design on the market. Many are hopeful that it feels more comfortable in the hand than it appears in promotional images. Beyond the thumbsticks, several other features are generating excitement, particularly the grip sense functionality. This innovation allows players to activate the gyroscope for precision aiming simply by holding down the grip buttons, a potential game-changer for first-person shooter titles.
Whether this uniquely styled controller will win over the gaming community remains to be seen. The final verdict will arrive when the hardware launches next year.
(Source: techradar)
