So close to perfect - Steam Controller 2026
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If you're planning to pick up a Steam Machine whenever it launches, head over to dbrand.com and register your interest for free. Or don't. We don't care. GO BUY STUFF AT LTTSTORE AND GET FREE SHIPPING! US: lmg.gg WW: lmg.gg $150 Minimum for US and Canada $225 Minimum worldwide If you want to get an even better offer, sign up for our Supporter Plus tier on floatplane at: lmg.gg The Steam Machine is on the way, and to kick off the year of Linux gaming the Steam Controller is here. This might be the perfect controller for PC gamers in the living room, but it's size and design might not be for everyone. Get the Steam controller from Valve starting May 4th: lmg.gg Want us to unbox something? Make a suggestion at lmg.gg Thanks to our channel partner Secretlab! - Grab a TITAN Evo ergonomic gaming chair: lmg.gg - Grab a MAGNUS Pro sit/stand gaming table: lmg.gg ► SHOP OUR PRODUCTS: lttstore.com ► GET A VPN: piavpn.com ► GET EXCLUSIVE CONTENT ON FLOATPLANE: lmg.gg ► DIVE DEEPER ON THE LTT LABS WEBSITE: lmg.gg ► SPONSORS, AFFILIATES, AND PARTNERS: lmg.gg Purchases made through some store links may provide some compensation to Linus Media Group. Affiliate links powered in part by affilimate.com Studio lighting by Aputure: aputure.com Linus Sebastian is an investor in Framework Computer, Inc and HexOS by Eshtek. CHAPTERS --------------------------------------------------- 0:20 What's in the box 2:33 Specs 4:00 Weight and feel 6:30 Buttons and triggers 10:07 Sponsor spot 11:58 Time to game 14:13 Oddly shaped triggers 17:00 LABS results 19:23 Price 20:01 Watch another video
So close to perfect - Steam Controller 2026 delivers a thorough hands on look at Valve's Steam Controller Gen 2, focusing on ergonomics, input options, and how the controller stacks up against rivals like the Xbox Elite and Sony DualSense. The video opens with unboxing excitement and a close examination of the puck style wireless dongle, which doubles as a charging dock and a wireless receiver, enabling a switch between wired and wireless play seamlessly. The presenter then evaluates the overall build quality, noting a mix of premium feel and occasional cheap plastic, while highlighting the four back paddles and the magnetic, Hall-effect style thumbsticks (actually labeled as TMR) that aim to reduce drift. Throughout the segment, there is a strong emphasis on customization, with full remapping capabilities and per-game configuration potential via Steam Input, which the creator argues could lead to a console-like experience in a PC living room setup. The review includes live gameplay impressions, discussing trackpads for mouse-like control in strategy or civ-style games, haptic feedback, latency measurements, and battery life as standout technical strengths, while also flagging ergonomic trade-offs such as mid-finger contact with the trigger area and a lip that can pinch under certain grips. Finally, the conclusion acknowledges the Steam Controller as a compelling, near-miss product: great feature set and competitive latency, exceptional trackpad utility, and strong battery life, but with enough comfort and usability questions to suggest trying before buying, especially for gamers with different hand sizes or grip preferences. The video closes with a teaser of deeper lab testing and comparisons to additional controllers, underscoring Valve’s potential and the broader context of PC gaming hardware supply concerns.
Topics · technology · gaming hardware · peripheral reviews · ergonomics · latency · battery life · customization · steam input
Questions answered
- What makes the Steam Controller Gen 2 stand out from rivals like Xbox Elite or DualSense?
- It features four back paddles, magnetic Hall-effect thumbsticks (TMR), trackpads for mouse-like control, and a highly customizable Steam Input system that allows per-game remapping and broad control over inputs.
- How does the wireless puck/dongle workflow affect setup and use?
- The puck acts as a charging dock and wireless dongle, enabling easy switching between wired and wireless modes without a separate dongle, which simplifies initial setup and ongoing use.
- Is the controller comfortable for long play sessions?
- Ergonomics are strong for many hands, with a rounded edge design and comfortable grip, but some users may experience finger pinch around the trigger area or prefer different hand sizes, so personal testing is recommended.