The New Steam Controller Unboxing

The new Steam Controller, an updated version of the original 2015 gamepad, has been revealed, showcasing a design influenced by the Steam Deck. This iteration aims to enhance PC gaming with its unique features. Upon unboxing, the controller's striking resemblance to the Steam Deck is immediately apparent, almost as if the screen was removed and the two sides brought together. Key features include two TMR magnetic sticks with capacitive touch and two customizable track guides that are pressure-sensitive for configurable click strength. The controller also boasts four programmable back buttons on the handles and capacitive touch sensors to detect grip. Internally, it houses four haptic motors: two under the trackpads for HD tactile feedback and two in the grips for HD game haptics and rumble. A six-axis gyro is included for motion controls. A notable accessory is the magnetic puck, which connects via a 2.4 GHz protocol through its charging pod, ensuring low-latency input. The controller is powered by an 8.39Wh lithium-ion battery, claimed by Valve to provide 35 hours of gameplay. While this is a step down from the 80 hours offered by the original's AA batteries, the new controller packs significantly more technology. The puck also functions as a wireless transmitter, offering a fast and stable connection, and doubles as a magnetic charging station. Impressively, one puck can support up to four Steam controllers. Comparing it to the V1 controller, the new model feels substantially more robust and premium. Unlike the older version's shiny, light plastic, the new controller feels hefty and well-built. The back buttons have a circular design, differing from the square format on the Steam Deck, and are noted for being more comfortable. A significant difference is the integrated rechargeable battery, moving away from the V1's reliance on disposable AAs. When placed alongside the Steam Deck, the design philosophies are clearly shared, though the controller obviously lacks a screen. The back buttons differ, and the controller is described as feeling slightly more comfortable due to a less angled, squarer shape. The joysticks are a key upgrade, featuring TMR technology to prevent drift, a first for a first-party company like Valve. The raised Steam and "three dots" buttons on the controller are also highlighted as an improvement over the flat versions on the Steam Deck. The trackpads utilize similar material and technology to the Steam Deck, and are praised for their quality. The D-pad is a traditional cross-shaped D-pad, a departure from the previous large circular design. Standard ABXY buttons, a view button, and a menu button are also present. The controller makes a distinct noise when powered on via the large Steam button, and a quick access menu button is conveniently located for use with Steam's Big Picture Mode, aiming to eliminate the need for a mouse. The bumpers are described as feeling similar to a PS5 controller, comfortable and not as tight as an Xbox controller. Setting up the controller is straightforward: start Steam, press the Steam button to turn on the controller, and follow prompts to update the firmware. For a gamepad-first experience, Big Picture Mode can be quickly accessed by pressing the Steam button. The controller is compatible with a docked Steam Deck, other handhelds, and any device running the Steam Link app, including Windows, Mac, Linux PCs, tablets, and smartphones. It is exclusively designed for devices running Steam and is not compatible with consoles. Valve has also promised seamless pairing with the newly announced Steam Machine without the need for the puck, and built-in infrared LEDs will allow tracking by Steam's frame camera, expected later this year. Release dates and pricing information for the new Steam Controller are not yet available.