Valve has announced a new Steam Controller for 2026. Here you’ll find all the details on its design, release and more.
Valve is launching a new Steam Controller in early 2026 that not only offers classic gamepad functions but can also serve as a mouse replacement for PC games thanks to modern technologies. We’ve gathered all essential information about the new input device for you – from the design and controls to its compatibility with different systems.
New Steam Controller: Release Window and Price
The new Steam Controller will launch alongside the upcoming Steam Machine in early 2026. An exact release date has not been announced yet. Pricing also remains open for now, but early estimates suggest a range between 80 and 100 euros based on the included technology.
Design and Input Options
The design of the new Steam Controller closely follows the Steam Deck, just without a display. It is a fully equipped gamepad with numerous modern input options. This makes it suitable not only for classic console-style games but also for PC titles that are typically played with mouse and keyboard.
Trackpads with Haptic Feedback
Two large trackpads with a diameter of 34.5 mm are located on the front of the controller. They support haptic feedback and different pressure levels. Mouse movements can be simulated precisely this way – ideal for genres like real-time strategy or first-person shooters.
TMR Sticks Instead of Hall Effect
The analog sticks use Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) technology. This system determines positions with magnetic fields and is designed to be especially durable, precise and energy efficient. Compared to classic Hall effect sticks, TMR sticks are also less prone to stick drift.
In addition to the trackpads and sticks, the Steam Controller features the usual A/B/X/Y buttons, a D-pad, two analog triggers, two bumpers and dedicated buttons for Steam, Menu and the Quick Access Menu.
Gyroscope and Grip Sense
A built-in 6-axis gyroscope enables motion controls, for example to aim more precisely in shooters. New to the controller is the Grip Sense function: Touching certain areas on the back of the controller or the sticks automatically activates the gyroscope. This feature can be freely assigned like a regular button.
Additional Macro Buttons
On the back are four freely assignable grip buttons that can be easily reached with your fingers. They allow complex control setups without having to take your thumbs off the sticks or trackpads.
Haptic Feedback and Vibration Motors
The controller features a total of four vibration motors – two in the trackpads and two in the grips. These provide responsive and nuanced haptic feedback during gameplay. In combination with the trackpads, this creates a precise and immersive control experience.
Compatibility with PC, VR and Mobile Devices
According to Valve, the new Steam Controller is compatible with a wide range of devices, including:
- Windows, macOS and Linux PCs
- Smartphones with Android or iOS (via Steam Link)
- Handhelds like the Steam Deck
- The new Steam Machine
- The new Steam Frame VR headset
This makes the controller suitable not only for classic PC gaming but also for mobile and VR applications.
Connectivity and Battery Life
The new Steam Controller offers three connection methods:
- Steam Controller Puck: A special USB dongle with its own low-latency wireless connection (~8 ms). The puck also doubles as a magnetic charging dock.
- Bluetooth: Supports Bluetooth 4.2 and higher.
- USB-C: For wired play and charging.
According to Valve, the battery lasts over 35 hours. When used with Steam Frame VR, the runtime may be shorter.
Optimized for Steam Input
The controller is fully integrated with Steam Input. This means it’s instantly compatible with thousands of games – including preconfigured community layouts. You can also create your own configurations and share them. Thanks to its identical input structure to the Steam Deck, many control profiles can be used across devices.
Tech Specs
Controls and Input
- Gamepad buttons: A, B, X, Y
- D-pad
- L & R analog triggers
- L & R bumpers
- View & Menu buttons
- Steam & QAM buttons
- 4 assignable grip buttons
- Thumbsticks: 2 full-size magnetic sticks (TMR) with capacitive touch
Haptics
- 4 haptic motors
- 2 LRA haptic motors in the trackpads for HD tactile feedback
- 2 high-output LRA haptic motors in the grips for HD game haptics including rumble
Trackpads
- 2 square trackpads (34.5 mm) with haptic feedback
- Pressure-sensitive for configurable click strength
Gyro
- 6-axis IMU
Grip Sense
- 2 capacitive sensing areas along the back of the handles
Connectivity
- Steam Controller Puck
- 2.4 GHz wireless connection
- ~8 ms full end-to-end latency, 4 ms polling rate (measured at 5 m)
- Supports up to 4 Steam Controllers per Puck
- Connects to PC via USB-C
- Bluetooth
- Bluetooth 4.2 minimum, 5.0 or higher recommended
- USB
- USB-C tethered play
Power
- Charging
- Charging interface via Steam Controller Puck
- USB-C connector
- Battery
- 8.39 Wh Li-ion battery
- 35+ hours of gameplay*
- Reduced battery life during tracked gameplay with Steam Frame
Size and Weight
- Dimensions
- Steam Controller: 111 × 159 × 57 mm
- Steam Controller Puck: 50 × 28 × 9 mm
- Weight
- Steam Controller: 292 g
- Steam Controller Puck: 16 g
Conclusion: A Gamepad with Mouse DNA
The new Steam Controller is more than a traditional gamepad – it combines precise mouse-like control with the comfort of a controller. With TMR technology, HD haptics, motion controls and wide compatibility, it’s an exciting option for anyone wanting to enjoy their Steam library on the couch or in a VR setup without limitations.
The early 2026 release will likely be a highlight for many PC players, especially in combination with the new Steam Machine and Steam Frame. You’ll be able to switch between genres and platforms with ease.
Source: Steam
