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Valve Sets May 4 Launch for $99 Steam Controller Without Steam Machine

Memory shortages delay the console and headset, prompting Valve to ship the controller on its own.

Overview

  • Valve confirmed Monday that the Steam Controller goes on sale May 4 for $99 in the US, priced at £85 in the UK, €99 in the EU, $149 in Canada and Australia, and 419 złoty in Poland.
  • The controller launches solo because the Steam Machine and Steam Frame remain delayed by global RAM and storage constraints, and Valve has not given a new timeline for either device.
  • Key features include dual haptic trackpads, magnetic TMR thumbsticks designed to resist drift, gyro aiming, HD haptics, four rear grip buttons, and about 35 hours of battery life.
  • It works with Steam on Windows, macOS, Linux, and Steam Deck, and with phones via the Steam Link app, and the bundled Puck receiver provides low latency wireless and doubles as a magnetic charger.
  • Valve says it built significant launch stock and will sell replacement parts through iFixit, as early reviews praise ergonomics and precision but question whether the $99 price will win broad adoption.