Are you looking for a more personalized gameplay control on a handheld console? Here are the 5 best controllers for Steam Deck.
Steam Deck is an amazing handheld gaming console with ergonomic controls and various customization options. However, many gamers find it difficult to play games while holding such a bulky gaming console, making it tiresome to press the control buttons. Fortunately, you can resolve this issue by connecting any console controller with it to play games like you do on a gaming console.
But when it comes to choosing a gaming controller, there is a wide range of options, and you got to choose the best ones that are compatible and comfortable too. Therefore, we have narrowed this search for you by compiling a list of the best controllers for Steam Deck to buy.
We will discuss the benefits and downsides of each controller so you can make the right choice accordingly.
1. DualSense Edge for PS5
The first controller on our list is the Sony PlayStation’s DualSense Edge controller, launched recently for PlayStation 5. Unlike any other ordinary controller, you can customize almost every attachment on this controller, from Joycons to trigger buttons.
You can connect the DualSense controller with Steam Deck to get the best gaming experience without compatibility issues. For a personalized gaming experience, you can map the buttons featured on the rear side of the controller. The design is pretty comfortable to hold, and it looks amazing too. It also features a touchpad for better navigation.
It wouldn’t be wrong to say it’s the most premium controller currently available. However, it may cost you around $200, nearly the price of some other handheld gaming console. Unfortunately, its only downside is 1050 mAh battery, which has to be small for all the additions of buttons in its form factor.
Also Read: What is the CPU Equivalent of Steam Deck? Specs and Comparison
2. Xbox Series X|S Controller
This Xbox controller comes in the same design as Series X and Series S. The design and feel of this controller are loved by many gamers, and it’s also been a popular choice for PC gamers. The Xbox controller can connect with Steam Deck easily, just like the PlayStation controller. However, it may seem like the Xbox controller is not working with Steam Deck, but it can be merely due to some problem with Steam Deck’s Bluetooth.
The best thing about the Xbox controller is that it snugly fits in your hand, and everything button or trigger seems right. Surprisingly, the button layout of the Xbox controller is the same as the Steam Deck’s button alignment. However, it lacks a touchpad and gyro, downgrading the convenience for those used to the DualSense controller.
This controller is the best option if you’re looking to play first-person shooting games on Steam Deck. Moreover, you get up to 30 hours of playtime with the Xbox controller on a single charge, which is much more than the PlayStation controllers.
3. DualShock Controller for PS4
Next, we have Sony’s other great production introduced almost a decade ago, the DualShock PS4 controller. Connecting the PS4 controller with Steam Deck is only a few steps with no compatibility issues. The button mapping is the same as the DualSense controller. However, you won’t find as many buttons and triggers as the DualSense. Still, it’s a pretty sturdy and well-built controller for Steam Deck.
The design of the DualShock controller seems a bit small, and it may not be a good choice for those with big hands. However, it is not a big deal as it still fits comfortably in most hands of various sizes and shapes. The buttons and joysticks are well-built and work seamlessly with Deck-verified games.
One huge downside of the DualShock 4 is its battery life, which only lasts 4 hours on a single full charge. However, since we keep a handheld battery-powered console-like Steam Deck in the account, I think it can cover the gameplay for sufficient time to match the console’s backup. Overall, the DualShock PS4 is a great budget-friendly choice that you can conveniently buy from any online tech store.
Also Read: Steam Deck Can’t Connect To Steam Servers? Here are 7 Easy Fixes
4. 8BitDo Pro Controller 2
8BitDo could be every retro gamer’s choice, and if you’re a fan of Nintendo games, this controller could be it. 8BitDo Pro Controller 2 gives you the best combination of a new-gen controller and an old-gen button mapping design that’s a real treat for those who want to play retro games like Mario Cart on their Steam Deck gaming console.
8BitDo Controller design is heavily inspired by the SNES, giving an old feel from the ’90s. However, the wireless controller range is worth appreciating, and the built quality is just perfect. Plus, it gives you an amazing battery backup that is 3x times better than the PlayStation’s battery backup.
The main selling point of this controller is its customizability options. With the help of the Ultimate Software program, you can easily remap buttons to get the output of your choice. Hence this controller becomes a versatile option for Steam Deck to play your favorite Nintendo titles.
5. KingKong 2 Pro Controller
The KingKong 2 Pro controller looks like a knock-off version of an Xbox controller as the button mapping and design look similar to the original Xbox One controller. This controller is compatible with Steam Deck like any other Bluetooth-supported controller.
The unique thing about the KingKong controller is its Hall Effect sticks that virtually remove the stick drift from controllers. The Hall Effect sensors help to prevent the controller from having any dead spots, which makes it highly accurate and responsive for FPS games like Call of Duty.
Another unique feature of this controller is the continuous shooting mode that allows you to remap a button press response for an extended period. This feature is useful in games like Minecraft, where you must constantly beat the button for certain gameplay achievements. Overall, this controller is a great choice with many cool features that might aid with the gameplay experience on Steam Deck.
Also Read: Steam Deck Vs. Asus ROG Ally: Which One Should You Buy
Final Words
Steam Deck offers an ergonomic control setup with the sturdy built quality and ergonomic design for a handheld console. However, holding a console can get pretty stressful for gamers looking to spend long hours on their favorite titles. Therefore, we brought you the best Steam Deck controllers you can find in the market to make your gaming experience more fun and convenient.
