Valve has officially announced the Steam Controller, including its price and release date.
Steam Controller set to release on May 4 at a price of $99
Valve has officially unveiled its next-generation Steam Controller, sharing both the pricing and launch date. The new controller will be available next week for $99, categorizing it as a premium gaming accessory. It plays a crucial role in a larger ecosystem as part of a new hardware lineup.
When is the Steam Controller being released?
Although Valve had previously hinted at a broader hardware initiative, only the Steam Controller will be launched on May 4, 2026. The release of the Steam Machine and Steam Frame headset has been postponed due to shortages in components. This staggered rollout is not unexpected given the recent leaks, including early reviews and retailer listings. Now, Valve is making the information official.
Integration with the Steam ecosystem
Valve's new Steam Controller is designed for versatility. It functions as a PC-first input device and aims for smooth compatibility with Steam. According to the store listing, the Steam Controller offers comfort for extensive gaming sessions and customizable controls, which is ideal for personalized experiences.
Similar to its predecessor, the new Steam Controller enhances the capabilities beyond standard consoles by incorporating trackpad input and advanced software-level customization through Steam. It also supports multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, solidifying its position as a universal controller for PC gaming setups.
Pricing details
Priced at $99, the Steam Controller is positioned above standard controllers but below high-end “pro” models. Valve appears to be aiming for gamers seeking increased control and flexibility rather than just a straightforward plug-and-play solution. Although its price exceeds that of basic controllers, Valve emphasizes ecosystem integration and customization as key selling points.
Vikhyaat Vivek is a technology journalist and reviewer with seven years of experience focused on consumer hardware.
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Valve has officially announced the Steam Controller, including its price and release date.
Following weeks of rumors, Valve has officially announced its new hardware: the Steam Controller will be released on May 4 for $99.
