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10 Best Steam Compatible Controllers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller with Charging Dock, Wireless Pro Controller with Hall Effect Sensing Joystick, Compatible with Switch, Windows and Steam Deck (Black)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,207
Compatibility
Connectivity
Ergonomics

Most important from
6029 reviews

Compatibility
The best controller for the Nintendo Switch, period. It feels amazing and super high quality right from the first touch.
Connectivity
Seamless connectivity with the Switch, whether using Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless. The motion controls are just as good as the Joycons.
Ergonomics
Feels great to hold, although people with very large hands might find it slightly smaller than the Switch Pro controller.
Customization Options
Effortless setup with PC; plug and play with no drivers or configuration needed. The 8Bitdo software makes remapping buttons and creating profiles easy.
Build Quality
Superior to the Licensed Pro Controller with no joystick drifting issues. It feels solid and doesn't malfunction even after accidental drops.
Battery Life
The built-in batteries and charging base eliminate the hassle of changing power cells. Just pick up the controller and play, then put it back on the charger when done.

The 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller stands out for its wide compatibility, as it works with Switch, Windows, and Steam Deck. Connectivity options are versatile, offering Bluetooth, a 2.4g adapter, and a USB cable. This ensures you can easily connect it to various devices without hassle. Ergonomically, the controller is designed for comfort during long gaming sessions, which is a significant plus for avid gamers.

The button layout is intuitive, featuring 2 pro back paddle buttons and a custom profile switch button, making it easy to access essential controls quickly. Customization options are abundant with the Ultimate Software available on both PC and mobile devices, allowing you to tailor your gaming experience precisely to your liking. The build quality is robust, and the controller feels solid in hand, which is indicative of its durability.

For an immersive gaming experience, the controller includes rumble vibration and motion controls. Battery life is impressive, lasting up to 22 hours on a single charge, and the multifunctional charging dock simplifies recharging and storage. However, a potential downside is its weight, which at 1.4 pounds, might feel heavy for some users. Despite this, the 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller is a well-rounded choice, especially for those who value customization and multi-platform compatibility.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,207
Compatibility
Connectivity
Ergonomics

Most important from
6029 reviews

Compatibility
The best controller for the Nintendo Switch, period. It feels amazing and super high quality right from the first touch.
Connectivity
Seamless connectivity with the Switch, whether using Bluetooth or 2.4GHz wireless. The motion controls are just as good as the Joycons.
Ergonomics
Feels great to hold, although people with very large hands might find it slightly smaller than the Switch Pro controller.
Customization Options
Effortless setup with PC; plug and play with no drivers or configuration needed. The 8Bitdo software makes remapping buttons and creating profiles easy.
Build Quality
Superior to the Licensed Pro Controller with no joystick drifting issues. It feels solid and doesn't malfunction even after accidental drops.
Battery Life
The built-in batteries and charging base eliminate the hassle of changing power cells. Just pick up the controller and play, then put it back on the charger when done.
#2

C6 Wireless PC Controller, Bluetooth Game Controller - 1000Hz Hall Triggers & Joysticks for Windows PC, Nintendo Switch Pro/OLED/Lite, Steam Deck, Android TV/Mobile, iPhone MAC & Tesla Vibration Turbo

Rating
9.8
Compatibility
Connectivity
Ergonomics

Most important from
98 reviews

Compatibility
Seamless connection to multiple systems is a standout feature, with smooth switching between PC, smartphone, and console.
Connectivity
Ridiculously fast Bluetooth connections make device switching seamless, with no lag, enhancing the gaming experience.
Ergonomics
The C6 Wireless Controller is incredibly lightweight, making long gaming sessions comfortable and fatigue-free, yet it feels solid and durable.
Customization Options
Customizable vibration feedback adds immersion to gaming, with settings adjustable for different game intensities.

The C6 Wireless PC Controller is a versatile option for gamers who value wide compatibility. It can be used with a range of devices including Windows PCs, Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and even Tesla, which makes it highly adaptable. The multiple connectivity options—wired, Bluetooth dongle, and Bluetooth wireless—add to its flexibility, though it's worth noting that it doesn't support 2.4G connections.

In terms of performance, the controller features dual Hall Effect joysticks and triggers, promising precise control without drifting and an extended lifespan, which is excellent for competitive gaming. The 1000Hz responsiveness in both wired and Bluetooth dongle modes ensures minimal input lag, providing a swift reaction time during gameplay.

Battery life is respectable, offering up to 18 hours on a single charge. This should suffice for most gaming sessions without frequent interruptions. The C6 Wireless PC Controller is well-suited for gamers who need a controller with broad device compatibility and solid performance features. Its strong adaptability and responsiveness are definite highlights.

Rating
9.8
Compatibility
Connectivity
Ergonomics

Most important from
98 reviews

Compatibility
Seamless connection to multiple systems is a standout feature, with smooth switching between PC, smartphone, and console.
Connectivity
Ridiculously fast Bluetooth connections make device switching seamless, with no lag, enhancing the gaming experience.
Ergonomics
The C6 Wireless Controller is incredibly lightweight, making long gaming sessions comfortable and fatigue-free, yet it feels solid and durable.
Customization Options
Customizable vibration feedback adds immersion to gaming, with settings adjustable for different game intensities.
#3

ManbaOne Interactive Screen Wireless Gaming Controller for PC/Switch/iOS/Android,Hall Effect Stick & Trigger,RGB Lighting,Remappable Buttons,1800mAh with Charging Dock (White)

Rating
9.6
Compatibility
Button Layout
Customization Options

Most important from
1336 reviews

Compatibility
This controller is the perfect replacement for my SteamController, with great signal strength and easy configuration between devices.
Button Layout
All buttons, sticks, and triggers feel great, and the controller is sturdy and solid right out of the box.
Customization Options
The built-in screen is a game changer for setup and customization.
Build Quality
The white controller with the clear case may be a bit creaky, but it's not noticeable while gaming.
Haptic Feedback and Vibration
The adjustable shock/controller vibration and cool RGB lights caught the attention of my kids immediately.
Battery Life
The charging base is a huge plus, making it easy to keep the controller powered for extended gaming sessions.

The ManbaOne Interactive Screen Wireless Gaming Controller is a versatile option suitable for gamers using PC, Switch, iOS, and Android platforms. One of its major strengths is the innovative 2-inch display that simplifies customization directly through the controller without needing additional software. This feature allows easy adjustments to vibrations, buttons, joysticks, and lights, catering to individual gaming preferences.

The controller’s compatibility with multiple platforms is another highlight, although using Bluetooth to connect to PC is less than ideal due to potential instability, suggesting a preference for the wireless adapter instead. The inclusion of Hall Effect sticks and triggers ensures precise control and reduces the risk of stick drift, which is a common issue in controllers. The ergonomic design and customizable button layout, including remappable back keys for macros, enhance the user experience, making it suitable for various game genres.

RGB lighting adds a visually appealing touch, and the smart charging station with a built-in 1800mAh battery provides convenience for extended gaming sessions. However, it's worth noting that this controller is not compatible with Xbox or PS5, which might be a drawback for users with those consoles. Additionally, while it is highly customizable and offers a solid build quality, its weight of 1.39 pounds could be considered somewhat heavy for extended use. The ManbaOne controller is a feature-rich, adaptable option particularly suited for gamers looking for advanced customization and multi-platform compatibility.

Rating
9.6
Compatibility
Button Layout
Customization Options

Most important from
1336 reviews

Compatibility
This controller is the perfect replacement for my SteamController, with great signal strength and easy configuration between devices.
Button Layout
All buttons, sticks, and triggers feel great, and the controller is sturdy and solid right out of the box.
Customization Options
The built-in screen is a game changer for setup and customization.
Build Quality
The white controller with the clear case may be a bit creaky, but it's not noticeable while gaming.
Haptic Feedback and Vibration
The adjustable shock/controller vibration and cool RGB lights caught the attention of my kids immediately.
Battery Life
The charging base is a huge plus, making it easy to keep the controller powered for extended gaming sessions.

Buying Guide for the Best Steam Compatible Controllers

When choosing a steam-compatible controller, it's important to consider how you plan to use it, the types of games you play, and your personal preferences for comfort and functionality. A good controller can significantly enhance your gaming experience, so taking the time to understand the key specifications will help you make an informed decision. Here are the key specs to consider when selecting a steam-compatible controller and how to navigate them to find the best fit for you.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the controller can work seamlessly with Steam and your gaming setup. This is crucial because not all controllers are designed to work with Steam out of the box. Look for controllers that explicitly state they are Steam-compatible. If you play on multiple platforms, you might want a controller that works with other systems like Windows, macOS, or even consoles. Ensure the controller supports the operating system you use most frequently.
ConnectivityConnectivity options include wired, wireless, and Bluetooth. Wired controllers offer a stable connection with no latency, which is ideal for competitive gaming. Wireless controllers provide more freedom of movement but may require charging or batteries. Bluetooth controllers are versatile and can connect to multiple devices, but they might have slight input lag. Choose based on your preference for mobility and the importance of a stable connection in your gaming.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to how comfortable the controller is to hold and use for extended periods. This is important because a poorly designed controller can lead to discomfort or even injury. Controllers come in various shapes and sizes, so consider your hand size and grip style. Test different controllers if possible to find one that feels comfortable and natural in your hands. Look for features like textured grips and well-placed buttons.
Button LayoutThe button layout includes the arrangement and number of buttons, triggers, and joysticks. This is important for ease of use and accessibility during gameplay. Some controllers have additional buttons or customizable layouts, which can be beneficial for complex games. Consider the types of games you play; for example, fighting games might benefit from a controller with more buttons, while racing games might need precise triggers. Choose a layout that complements your gaming style.
Customization OptionsCustomization options allow you to modify the controller's settings to suit your preferences. This can include remapping buttons, adjusting sensitivity, and changing the appearance. Customization is important for creating a personalized gaming experience and improving performance. If you like to tweak settings to optimize your gameplay, look for controllers that offer extensive customization through software or physical adjustments.
Build QualityBuild quality refers to the materials and construction of the controller. A well-built controller is durable and can withstand heavy use. This is important for longevity and reliability. Controllers made from high-quality materials will feel more solid and last longer. Consider how often you play and how rough you are with your equipment. If you are a frequent gamer, investing in a controller with superior build quality is advisable.
Haptic Feedback and VibrationHaptic feedback and vibration provide tactile sensations that enhance the gaming experience by simulating in-game actions. This is important for immersion and can make games feel more realistic. Controllers with advanced haptic feedback can offer more nuanced vibrations. If you enjoy a more immersive experience, look for controllers with strong and customizable haptic feedback. If you prefer a simpler experience, a basic vibration feature might suffice.
Battery LifeBattery life is the duration a wireless controller can operate before needing a recharge. This is important for uninterrupted gaming sessions. Controllers with longer battery life are more convenient and reduce the frequency of recharging. Consider how long you typically play in one sitting. If you have long gaming sessions, look for controllers with extended battery life or quick charging capabilities.

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