Summary
Highlights
The original Steam Controller revolutionized PC controller support but had limitations. The new controller, while similar to the Steam Deck's input, presents significant improvements and innovations.
The new controller is less bulky, with a more conventional grip shape and better weight distribution. It's a comfortable size between the Switch 2 Pro and Dualsense. The trackpads are rotated for better placement, though their output may require adjustment.
Valve is a pioneer in using K-Silver TMR joysticks, which are highly durable and designed to avoid drift, a common issue in other controllers. The joysticks feature capacitive touch sensing, and grip sensing has been expanded for versatile input options, allowing for dynamic remapping of buttons.
The trackpads are smaller but offer improved response and feel. The haptics are substantially upgraded, providing instantaneous rumble, similar to the Deck OLED. Dedicated grip haptics aim to cover game rumble, but widespread PC support for these advanced haptic APIs is lacking.
The back buttons are effortlessly reachable and don't disrupt gyro aim, marking a significant improvement over previous iterations. The D-pad, while not perfect, is good enough for most, and can be further improved with a simple tape mod after disassembling the controller.
The controller boasts a significant battery life of approximately 35 hours. It charges via USB or a magnetic puck, which doubles as a 2.4Ghz radio. The puck has some quirks, such as magnetic interference with the joysticks and a warning about metallic objects.
Trackpads offer greater precision and control than analog sticks, with no dead zones or tension changes. Features like trackball emulation and custom input mappings (e.g., split-keyboard text entry, inventory grids) allow for unprecedented customization and enhanced gameplay experiences, particularly in retro games and emulators.
Gyro aim provides fluid, mouse-like movement for aiming. Comparisons with other controllers show strong performance, though there are reports of overzealous auto-calibration that can cause temporary drift. The new Steam Controller, despite this issue, places high in aiming tests.
A significant drawback is the buggy and unintuitive Steam Input UI. Users experience issues like disappearing configs, incorrect controller recognition, and difficult-to-find settings. The interface is seen as a downgrade from the original Steam Input, making advanced customization a frustrating endeavor.
The hardware of the new Steam Controller is excellent, offering capacitive TMR sticks, advanced haptics, strong gyro, great battery life, and low latency. However, the software remains a buggy mess, impacting the overall user experience. Despite the software issues, its unique feature set makes it a worthwhile, premium purchase for those willing to explore its capabilities.