Honest verdict after 48 hours with the Steam Controller

2-day review of the Steam Controller: ergonomic design, tactile touchpads, and deep customization in SteamOS.

The Steam Controller arrives on the market as a bold proposal within the Valve ecosystem. After 48 hours of use, it is clear that it is not just a curiosity: it is a peripheral that speaks directly to the Steam experience.

First impressions

Although the official images suggest a large size, the device is only slightly larger than a modern Xbox controller. I have large hands, but many users will adjust without any problems. The matte finish helps maintain grip, even when hands get sweaty. The ABXY buttons and triggers feel durable, reminiscent of a Steam Deck without the screen.

The setup is simple: plug the receiver into your PC via USB and attach the puck magnetically to pair. The experience of attaching and detaching the accessory is fun and reminiscent of MagSafe on Macs.

The gaming experience

The controller becomes a natural extension of the hands. The haptic touchpads respond to subtle movements, the buttons offer good resistance, and the weight balance helps with comfort during long sessions. In Cyberpunk 2077, movement and action flow naturally, and the triggers prove adequate for both shooting and running.

In SteamOS, the Steam Input section allows you to remap every button and program the touchpads to act as a mouse or D-Pad. You can adapt the controller to virtually any genre, although RTS and MMOs are not the primary focus.

The haptic touches on the menus add immersion without disrupting the pace of the game. Still, for some titles, I may stick to my current setup, especially when the style requires a more traditional layout.

Customization and software

Customization is one of the pillars of Steam Input. It is possible to remap buttons, adjust sensitivities, and turn the touchpads into mouse commands or a D-Pad. This level of configuration allows you to adapt the controller to specific playstyles and individual preferences.

It is important to note that the Steam Controller is not compatible with other PC game launchers; it works well within the Steam ecosystem, offering a cohesive and immersive experience.

Conclusion

Overall, the Steam Controller is a well-thought-out peripheral with an ergonomic design, deep customization options, and a pleasant feel in the hand. It doesn't replace every gaming scenario, but it proves excellent for the main categories explored on PC and within Steam.

And you, which customization feature caught your attention the most? Have you tested the Steam Controller yet? Share your experience in the comments below.

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