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Valve Sets May 4 Launch for $99 Steam Controller as Steam Machine and Frame Remain Delayed

Component shortages have pushed back Valve's console and headset, leaving the controller to launch first.

Valve Steam Machine
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Overview

  • Valve, which confirmed Monday that the gamepad goes on sale May 4 at 1 p.m. ET, set pricing at $99 in the US with reviews now live across major outlets.
  • The redesign adds dual trackpads for mouse-like control, magnetic TMR thumbsticks to cut stick drift, gyro with GripSense, four rear buttons, HD haptics, and a magnetic charging and low‑latency puck.
  • Valve says there are no pre-orders, initial stock is “significant,” and regional prices include £85 in the UK, €99 in Europe, and $149 in Canada and Australia.
  • The controller works with Steam on Windows, macOS, and Linux, supports Steam Deck and phones via Steam Link, and connects over Bluetooth or USB with more than 35 hours of battery life.
  • Valve says the Steam Machine console and Steam Frame headset have no timeline due to a global RAM squeeze tied to data center demand, while early controller reviews are broadly positive and iFixit repair parts are planned.