Valve opens reservation queue for the Steam Controller: what changes for those who want the controller?

The Steam Controller reservation starts on May 8, with priority shipping to the US and Canada. See how it works, deadlines, and what to expect.

After a troubled launch, Valve is adjusting the Steam Controller buying experience with a reservation queue. Starting May 8 at 10 AM PT (6 PM BST), the controller will be available by reservation only.

How the reservation works

Once reserved, you will receive an email to complete the purchase and will have 72 hours to finalize it. If there is no confirmation within that period, the slot is lost and you return to the back of the queue.

To be eligible, you must have a Steam account in good standing and must have already made a purchase on the store by April 27, 2026, the date the first controller reviews were published. Furthermore, those who have already secured a Steam Controller will not be able to buy another one at this time.

Shipping priority

Valve is prioritizing the delivery of new units to the United States and Canada. In the following weeks, shipping should expand to the United Kingdom, Europe, and Australia, maintaining the option to reserve the controller starting May 8.

Context and news

The system is similar to the one used with the Steam Deck, with the expectation that the confirmation email will arrive a little faster this time. Additionally, Valve signals that it may accelerate restocks, having learned from the previous launch.

As a complement, Valve is making CAD files of the Steam Controller available to facilitate the production of accessories by the community.

What do you think of this reservation queue approach? Let us know in the comments what your expectations are for the Steam Controller and if you want this model to come to the Steam Machine and Steam Frame in the future.

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