You can use an external controller with the Steam Deck if you prefer it docked rather than in handheld mode. These third‑party controllers are great options.

The best controllers for Steam Deck are comfortable to hold, offer reliable inputs, and deliver simple connectivity to the handheld via a wireless Bluetooth connection or wired USB-C. Some gamepads ...

The Wireless Horipad for Steam Controller has three dedicated menu buttons for playing on Steam Deck (docked or undocked) or in Steam Big Picture mode. Like the Deck, the thumbsticks have capacitive ...

Valve is launching three new Steam Hardware projects in 2026, and two of them are quite familiar. The Steam Frame is the newest of the bunch, intended as a lower cost alternative to the ultra-premium ...

Controllers bore me. The modern Xbox controller and Sony DualSense both conform to the same general shape that gently cups your palms and leads the thumbs right to the necessary joysticks and face ...

Controller manufacturer Hori has announced a new Steam-focused wireless controller launching later this year. Hori's wireless Steam controller is officially licensed by Valve, and both companies ...