Steam Controller Review

Are you a video game fanatic who wants to find solutions to create a simplistic and fun playing environment?

Who wouldn’t want to get rid of the basic mouse and keyboard and let one device do the work with less effort and more fun?

Well, dear fanatics, we have got you covered.

If you’re still puzzled about what we are talking about, then let us break it to you: Steam Controllers.

You heard that right. Steam controllers, developed by Valve cooperation in 2015, are a modern, high-quality game controller. They are specifically designed for video gamers to have a better and more fun-filled gaming experience on your TV-screens.

You’re about to learn all about steam controllers, so, you can decide on your own if it is worth it or not.

The steam controller allows you to have precise aim for your games.  It does this through its wireless feature which allows you to play old, new, all kinds of video games.

What’s more is that with steam controllers, you can play even the mouse-and-keyboard games, except without the mouse and keyboard. How convenient!

Design and Size

First of all, the game controller’s medium shape and portable size allows it to act as a handy product.

Secondly, the design of the steam controller will surely look familiar to you. This is because it looks quite like the Xbox One controller. However, there are a few added variations to this one.

Button Layout

Let’s look at how is the button layout of a Steam controller different from an Xbox One controller.

Firstly, the signature trackpads are located in place of the left analog stick and the face buttons.

Moreover, the analog stick (single) and the face buttons now occupy positions in the middle-end of the controller.

An Xbox controller has large shoulder buttons and triggers. Similarly, the Steam controller also possesses these features, but along with that, it also comprises of programmable paddles.

Trackpads

The most distinctive aspect of the Steam controller is its gigantic trackpads. The left trackpad resembles a D-pad, but its functions are similar to the right trackpad. The reason why the trackpads are so unique is because of their ability to register input with increased precision.

Furthermore, these trackpads are customizable. They also feature an impressive feedback system to compensate for lack of tactility (a problem accompanied by analog sticks).

The dual trackpads, undeniably, are a great alternative of the old keyboard and mouse controls.

HD Haptics

You will enjoy your game even more with the Steam controller’s precise and sharp vibrations. This feature enables the gamer to experience the game with much more precision.

Whether it is a gunshot or the spinning of a virtual trackball, never miss your target! This feature allows you to have a real-time gaming experience!

Dual Stage-triggers

What’s unique about the dual-stage triggers is that it operates in two ways.  It can be used as a digital, as well as analog input simultaneously.

Ergonomic Control

The Steam controller’s buttons have been located in accordance with the level usage, required accuracy and ergonomic comfort.

Benefits of Steam Controller

Now that we have discussed the Steam controller’s features in detail let’s look at the device’s benefits.

• Customizable software:

The incorporation of the innovative touchpads lets you use the controller like a keyboard, mouse or pad, etc. You will not feel any difference. However, there will only be the added ease and convenience where you play your favorite games through just one device.

• High-quality device

A Valve cooperation product, the steam controller, is formulated to provide the users with increased ease and convenience.

• Performance

When you use a Steam controller, you will realize that its performance is no less than what the company guarantees. The touchpad’s sensitivity gives great accuracy, which cannot be overlooked.

• Unlimited configuration options

This is considered one of the best features of the Steam Controller. It gives you the liberty to have endless configuration options, because of which, you can have various key bindings.

• Convenience

If not having to get up from the couch while gaming is what want, then you need this device. It is such a simplistic device that all you’re required to do is to enter your PC password. The controller will do everything from thereon.

• Built-in keyboard

Not that you need a built-in keyboard for your games, but the Steam controller has this facility. So, now you no longer have to fret about keeping a separate keyboard right next to you.

In order to use your computer and play your game, the built-in keyboard will make your life easier.

• Versatility

The Steam Controller is the one tool that allows you to play any game you ever wanted. Be it an old traditional game like Sky Rockets or a modern FIFA game.

• Comfort

The size of the controller is neither too big nor too small. It is the most comfortable for people with normal-sized hands. The touchpads offer high accuracy of timely vibrations, which adds to the user’s comfort level.

• Jack-of-all-trades

The innovation of Steam Controller has come to play to bridge the gap between PC and console games, working to act as a game-pad, which is a jack-of-all-trades.

• Steam Community

Here’s the best part.

The load-out system allows every gamer to alter the function of the face button, varying from game to game.

All your controls can be mutually shared with the Steam community.

• Wireless

That’s not all; the controllers are even more convenient to use because they are wireless. Hence, you don’t need to worry about misplacing any wires or having to attach it to someplace constantly.

• Good battery life

Moreover, the battery life of up to 80 hours is more than just good.  The batteries don’t need charging until they are used for 80 hours.

Due to this, there are no interruptions caused by low battery or power shut down.

How To Use

The Steam Controllers have other tools that are part of the package. These include two AA batteries, a Bluetooth USB connector for wireless pairing. It also includes an extender to link up the connector nearer to the PC.

To your luck, setting up a Steam controller is not a tough job.

First, insert the two batteries into the grips.  Next, connect the USB Bluetooth receiver, turn on the controller and there, you have it, you’re ready to play.

Steam Controller Pros & Cons

Possible Issues

Let’s look at some of the major problems in more depth.

Design

Many people find the design to be problematic. It’s true that the design takes some getting used to, but once, you get the hang of it, it’s all easy.

Non-steam Games

One major drawback of the Steam controller is that it doesn’t work for non-steam games. It can be used for Big Picture Mode and standard games.

No Standard Controller Feel

This just means that using a Steam controller does not give the same familiar feeling of using a standard controller.  With a standard controller, one gets its grip instantly and can control it all they want.