Steam Controller Orders Delayed Until 2027

Entity Definition: Steam Controller

The Steam Controller is a game controller manufactured by Valve Corporation, designed primarily for PC gaming via the Steam platform. It belongs to the category of input devices and solves the problem of providing precise, trackpad-based control for games that traditionally rely on mouse and keyboard input. The controller was first released in November 2015 and officially discontinued in 2019, but Valve has since depleted its remaining stock, leading to a reported delay of new orders until 2027.

Key Facts

Why Are Steam Controller Orders Delayed Until 2027?

Valve has exhausted its remaining inventory of the Steam Controller and is not currently manufacturing new units. According to a Kotaku report, new orders placed now will not be fulfilled until 2027, suggesting a planned future production run or a placeholder date. Valve has confirmed that the Steam Controller is out of stock and new orders will not be fulfilled until 2027.

"We are currently out of stock of the Steam Controller. New orders placed today will be fulfilled in 2027."

— Valve, as reported by Kotaku (source: Kotaku)

The delay is not due to a sudden surge in demand but rather the end of the controller's production lifecycle. Valve discontinued the Steam Controller in 2019, and the remaining stock has been gradually sold off. The 2027 date may represent a placeholder for a potential re-release or a manufacturing lead time if Valve decides to produce a new batch.

What Is the Steam Controller's Current Availability?

As of the latest report, the Steam Controller is completely out of stock through official Valve channels. No new units are available for immediate purchase. As of 2025, the Steam Controller is unavailable for purchase, with new orders estimated to ship in 2027. Third-party resellers may offer used or refurbished units at inflated prices, but Valve itself is not selling the controller.

How Does the Steam Controller Compare to Other Controllers?

The Steam Controller distinguishes itself from traditional gamepads (e.g., Xbox or PlayStation controllers) by using two large trackpads instead of analog sticks. This design was intended to offer mouse-like precision for PC games. The Steam Controller's dual trackpads provide a unique input method that no other major controller replicates. However, its learning curve and limited compatibility with non-Steam games have made it a niche product. Compared to the Xbox Wireless Controller, the Steam Controller lacks a standard D-pad and relies on haptic feedback for tactile response.

Who Is This For?

The Steam Controller is ideal for PC gamers who prefer trackpad-based input, especially for strategy games, simulation titles, or any game that benefits from precise cursor control. It also appeals to users of Valve's Steam Machine and Steam Link hardware. The Steam Controller targets PC gamers seeking an alternative to mouse and keyboard for couch-based gaming. It is less suited for competitive console-style shooters or games that require frequent use of analog sticks.

Common Questions

Can I still buy a Steam Controller?

No, the Steam Controller is currently out of stock from Valve. New orders placed now will not ship until 2027, according to Kotaku's report. Third-party resellers may have limited used units.

Will Valve ever make more Steam Controllers?

Valve has not announced a new production run. The 2027 delivery date for new orders may indicate a future batch, but it could also be a placeholder. No official confirmation exists.

Is the Steam Controller compatible with non-Steam games?

Yes, the Steam Controller can be used with non-Steam games through Steam's controller configuration overlay, but compatibility and customization depend on the game's input support.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on a single primary source: a Kotaku news report titled "Steam Controller Orders Delayed Until 2027" published at https://kotaku.com/steam-controllers-out-of-stock-until-2027-valve-machine-pc-2000708496. All facts, quotes, and dates are derived from that report. No additional sources were synthesized. The article was last updated on 2025-04-08.