Looking for a new controller for your steam deck?
We've done the hard work to find you five of the top contenders in the market, from our Best Pick and Runner-Up to Premium Built, Ergonomically Designed, and Retro-Themed Gaming Controller.
With extensive research and customer reviews taken into consideration, we have picked out quality controllers that are worth considering when it comes to finding one that is right for you.
Find yourself enjoying more comfort during your gameplay - with a better feel on each button press or stick twitch thanks to ergonomic design features, as well as greater control enhanced by retro-style elements such as slow trigger pulls or increased trigger distance support!
Dare we say - this could be an upgrade-related gaming experience compared to what you had before. Get your hands on one of these awesome controllers now! Check out our selection here today!
How We Find The Best Controller For Steam Deck For You
It can be difficult to find the right controller for Steam Deck when there are so many options.
With an endless stream of reviews and opinions, it's hard to trust that you're getting the best product for your money. You don't want to end up disappointed with a low-quality controller that falls apart in a matter of months!
Our team of experts has done the hard work for you. We've analyzed thousands of Amazon-verified purchase reviews and identified the best Steam controller on the market today.
Get the Best Pick, Runner-Up, Premium Built, Ergonomically Designed, or Retro-Theme Made controller, and take your gaming experience to new heights!
Why We Featured It
Are you looking for the best Steam Deck controller? Look no further! The Sony DualShock 4 Wireless Controller is all you need to experience the best gaming experience with your Steam Deck games. Compatible with all Valve-verified games, this controller will give you a seamless performance like no other!
If you decide to venture out for non-Valve verified games, don't worry as the DualShock 4's intuitive touchpad acts as a mouse allowing easy clicking and navigating of menus that are usually not compatible. So, if you're ready to get your gaming experience to the next level, this is your perfect match! Get the Sony DualShock 4 Wireless Controller today and unlock a whole new world of gameplay!
Description About It
The Dualshock 4 Wireless controller is one of the more unique controllers on the market featuring motion sensors that allow for an immersive gaming experience. With its highly sensitive built-in accelerometer and gyroscope, it can detect the slightest movement, tilt, or rotation of your movements.
While some users have mixed reviews on the battery life of 4-5 hours, it's easy to recharge with any standard USB cable (type A to micro B sold separately), allowing for continuous gameplay. With a built-in speaker and stereo headset jack, players have complete control over their audio experience. The DualShock 4 Wireless Controller is not only compatible with the Steam Deck, but it's also a versatile controller that delivers an immersive, customized experience.
Why We Featured It
Introducing the amazing Xbox Core Wireless Controller! Providing the perfect gaming experience, this controller is perfect for gamers of all levels. Boasting high-quality hardware from the Xbox brand, you can expect D-pad precision and controller performance that delights every time you use it.
This controller offers up to 40 hours of playtime on a single charge — no more tech troubles in the middle of an intense gaming session. Unlike similar offerings in its class, this Steam Deck Controller provides top-tier value without burning a hole in your pocket. Get on the winning edge and count on reliable performance when you choose the Xbox Core Wireless Controller!
Description About It
If you're a fan of PC gaming and playing your favorite games through Steam Deck on Windows Mode, the standard Xbox Core controller is an excellent choice to enhance your gaming experience. As this controller is natively supported by Windows, it's easy to connect via Bluetooth or USB, making it seamless to use.
Furthermore, the button layout of the Xbox controller is the same as Steam Deck's, which means you'll feel much more familiar with everything. For fans of first-person shooters, this is one of the best Steam Deck controllers available. While it doesn't have gyro and touchpad controls like the DualShock 4, it's still a superb choice for those who want to take their gaming experience to the next level.
Sony Playstation DualSense Wireless Controller
Best Premium Controller for Steam Deck
Why We Featured It
Introducing the Sony Playstation DualSense Wireless Controller - the ultimate gamepad for gamers looking for next-level immersion. With its revolutionary haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, you’ll be able to feel the action like never before.
Crafted with precision and care out of premium materials, this controller is designed to be comfortable in your hands and provide an entirely new level of gaming experience. Perfect for fans of Steam Deck games, the PlayStation controller raises the bar on gamepads - bringing you closer to the action.
Description About It
The DualSense is a controller that has been designed with ergonomics in mind. Its larger size and curved angular build closely mimic the comfortable feel of an Xbox controller. The controller boasts a 1560 mAh battery that provides up to 8 hours of use on a single charge.
Additionally, it features a built-in microphone and a headset jack that allows you to chat with friends online using the controller's microphone or by connecting a headset to the 3.5mm jack. With a larger touchpad than its predecessor, the DualSense offers better mouse and keyboard controls making navigation on your Steam Deck a smooth and seamless experience.
GuliKit No Stick Drift KingKong 2 Pro Wireless Controller
Best FPS Controller for Steam Deck
Why We Featured It
Introducing the GuliKit No Stick Drift KingKong 2 Pro Wireless Controller - the perfect addition to your gaming arsenal! With its patented hall sensor technology, this is the first controller to eliminate stick drifting so that you can have maximum control over every move you make.
Enjoy the ultra-accurate performance and have fun playing all your favorite FPS games without worrying about losing control or hand grip again. The ingenious No Stick Drift feature guarantees 100% no dead zones for a more immersive gaming experience. Whether you’re competing in tournaments or just shooting it out with friends, trust in the GuliKit's KingKong 2 Pro Wireless Controller!
Description About It
Say hello to the trendsetting feature of this controller - the special Al Key. The gamepad can learn and record your operations for up to 10 minutes, and then it will auto-run hands-free, repeating the same actions without your input. How cool is that? But wait, there's more. The controller also features a rumble intensity adjustment, so you can get immersed in any game, even if it doesn't have original motion sense.
And with its six-axis gyroscope, you can detect the tilt of the controller and react quickly, making switch motion-sensing games even more fun. Get ready to take your gaming experience to the next level with this controller. To top it off, you can enjoy a high-speed wireless connection and uninterrupted gameplay of up to 25 hours on a full charge. That's a whole day of gaming, without any worries of your device dying on you.
Why We Featured It
Introducing 8BitDo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller – the perfect controller for gamers who love to play classic games on their Steam Deck. This controller is designed with input from the 8-bit and onward era in mind, giving you a true retro gaming experience.
Team it up with your Steam Deck and enjoy an amazing 20 hours of non-stop gaming per charge thanks to its 1000 mAh rechargeable battery pack powered by USB-C. With its unique design, ergonomic design, and durable construction, this is one controller that won’t let you down when faced with a challenging game! Get your hands on an 8BitDo Pro 2 today and give your gaming experience an authentic retro makeover.
Description About It
Whether you're looking to connect to your Steam Deck via USB-C or wirelessly with Bluetooth 4.0, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is a highly customizable controller option worth considering. With its custom profile switch button, you can easily switch between three different profiles on the fly, allowing for quick adjustments based on your gaming needs.
Additionally, the controller features two pro-level back buttons, ensuring you won't have to take your thumbs off the thumbsticks. The 8-BitDo Ultimate Software even allows for customized button assignments and macros, catering to unique player preferences. With Rumble Vibration and Motion Controls, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is a versatile and functional controller that can enhance the gaming experience on your Steam Deck.
Controller for Steam Deck FAQs
Have you ever needed to find out more information about Steam Deck Controllers, but can't seem to find the answers you need?
It’s incredibly frustrating trying to find the answers you need without feeling like you’re lost in a sea of confusing technical jargon. Plus, you don’t have time to waste on researching and sifting through endless FAQ pages.
Look no further than our Steam Deck Controllers FAQ. With this comprehensive list, you can find clear, concise answers to all your questions as quickly as possible, allowing you to make informed decisions about your purchases.
Can you use a PS4 controller on Steam Deck?
Yes, you can use a PS4 controller on Steam Deck. In fact, connecting your PS4 controller to Steam Deck is remarkably easy and only takes a few minutes. All you need is an Android device equipped with Bluetooth connectivity—just make sure the device is running Android 6 or higher.
First, turn on your PlayStation 4 system and connect your controller to it using the USB cable included in the box. Then, go to Settings > Devices > Bluetooth Devices and select the “Wireless Controller” option from the list of available connections. You can now pair the two devices and start playing games on Steam Deck with your PS4 controller!
Is the PS5 controller compatible with Steam Deck?
The short answer is yes, the PlayStation 5 (PS5) DualSense controller is compatible with Steam Deck, just like the preceding PlayStation Controllers. As a matter of fact, Microsoft's Xbox controller, the Sony DualSense controller, Xbox-w third-party controllers, and even the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller all will work with the Steam Deck. This far-reaching compatibility means that players can now enjoy their favorite games across multiple platforms using their favorite controller.
Can you use the switch controller on Steam Deck?
Yes! The Steam Deck has an excellent feature that allows you to use a Nintendo Switch controller to enjoy your gaming experience. The Steam Deck recognizes the wireless connection of the controller and you simply have to install either the Joy-Con Toolkit or BetterJoyForever so that this connection is recognized as an XInput device on your PC. Once done, you can connect your Switch controller just like any other gamepad and have a great time playing games on Steam Deck.
How do I get a controller on my Steam Deck?
If you're looking to get a controller on your Steam Deck, the process is relatively straightforward. First and foremost, check to make sure that the controller you plan on using is compatible with your version of Steam. Once compatibility has been confirmed, plug in or sync up the controller with your PC/Steam setup.
From there, start up Steam and go into Big Picture mode (via the settings menu) so that it recognizes the new input device. After a brief scan of available hardware configurations that may take a few moments, the controller should be ready to use and all sorts of games can now be tried out both in Desktop mode and Big Picture Mode (unfortunately some games won't recognize controllers).
It's possible that additional mapping or switching of buttons/sticks will be necessary when playing certain titles but generally speaking, once connected with Steam this process should be quite simple!
Can I connect Steam Deck to the TV?
Yes, you can connect Steam Deck to your TV. Depending on the model of the TV, it may have an HDMI input port which you can use to connect your Steam Deck. If not, then you'll need an HDMI-to-DVI adapter cable (or in some cases an HDMI-to-VGA adapter cable). In either case, make sure that both ends of the cable are connected securely and that both devices are powered on. Once properly connected, you'll be able to enjoy playing Steam games directly from your TV screen.
How many controllers can you have on Steam Deck?
Steam Deck supports up to four wired or wireless controllers. According to the official Steam Support page, you can connect any combination of either a PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch Pro Controller for Windows systems (including Mac and Linux). Additional notes include that Bluetooth connections are only supported on Windows 10 so you may need an adapter if using other operating systems. You can also link another controller via a USB connection and use it as a second player in compatible games.
How do I use my pro controller on Steam Deck?
Connecting your pro controller to Steam Deck is fairly simple. First, you'll need to connect the USB cable from your pro controller to the USB port of your PC or laptop. Then, open the Steam client and navigate to Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings. Once there make sure that Support for Switch Pro Controllers is enabled. After this, just launch a game on Steam Deck and enjoy!
If you're having trouble with connection issues or if the buttons are not being detected correctly then follow these steps:
1) Disconnect any other controllers connected to your console
2) Navigate back to General Controller Settings in the Steam settings
3) Try switching between “Switch Pro” configs and “Xbox 360” configs until an appropriate one is found (depending on what type of Pro controller you have).
4) Reboot your console after selecting a new config
5) Consider using third-party software such as Xpadder which allows further customization & mapping of buttons/axes
How do I use my Xbox controller on Steam?
Using an Xbox controller on Steam is an easy process. All you need is the controller itself, a Windows 10 computer or tablet with Bluetooth connectivity (or a micro-USB cable), and the latest version of Steam installed. To begin, press and hold the Guide button on your Xbox controller for 3 seconds to turn it on.
Next, open up Steam on your PC or laptop and select 'Add a device' in the dialog box that appears. Select ‘Xbox Wireless Controller’ from the list of available controllers and allow access when prompted by Windows Firewall. If using a Bluetooth connection, wait until Windows recognizes your controller and connects it with your device once paired successfully; if connecting through a USB cable simply plug in to connect automatically.
Lastly, configure any additional settings needed such as the sensitivity of thumbsticks or button layout according to personal preference before beginning gameplay!
Can I use my phone as a Steam Deck controller?
Yes, it is possible to use your phone as a Steam Deck controller. To do so, you will need to download an app that allows you to connect your phone and PC together via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Once connected, the app will recognize the device as a gaming controller and allow you to play games using it on Steam by mapping buttons and screens on your phone's display rather than traditional joysticks/buttons.
To ensure a smooth experience while playing any game on Steam with your smart device, it is recommended that either: (1) You have a current-generation smartphone with at least 4G of RAM; (2) The game involved has relatively simple control requirements; or (3) You have access to an external gaming peripheral that can be connected directly onto the smartphone.
Lastly, if necessary for certain applications like VR/AR functionality, you may need additional hardware such as sensors in order to make full use of the capabilities offered by Steam for mobile devices.
Does Steam Deck have Bluetooth?
Steam Deck has a USB wireless adapter that allows it to connect wirelessly to Bluetooth-enabled speakers, headphones, and other audio devices. The receiver of the adapter is connected to the rear port of the Steam Deck. This enables users to access their digital media from anywhere in their home or office with an active Bluetooth connection. Additionally, this connection can be updated as needed by downloading any new software updates available for Steam Deck directly from within the app itself.
Best Controller for Steam Deck for You
After reviewing heaps of Steam Deck controllers in the market, we know you can find one that fits your needs. From the Best Pick to the Runner-Up to the Premium Built and Ergonomically Designed models, we have you covered! But, if you prefer a more retro approach, then a Retro-Theme Made controller may be more up your alley.
So, if you're after an affordable yet stylish and comfortable controller for your gaming setup, our review above has narrowed down some of the best options on Amazon! Take advantage of this knowledge and find yourself the perfect fit– so what are you waiting for? Tap the button on your favorite pick(s) now and grab yourself one of the Best Controller For Steam Deck today!
Only The Best For You!
