Valve’s Steam Deck is an exciting revolution in PC gaming, providing a powerful way to game on the go and access Steam’s massive game library. It opens up new possibilities for how gamers play PC games, and it has the flexibility to play games in different ways.
If gamers want to change things up and play games on the Steam Deck in a desktop or desktop format, then getting an external controller is ideal for their use case. Traditional first-party controllers from publishers like PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo are solid options, but there are also some third-party gamepads worth researching.
PlayStation 5 Dual Sense Controller
Of the two high-end consoles of the current generation, PlayStation has made the biggest change to its gamepad, from the PS4 controller to the PS5 DualSense. Starting with the long-established line of Dual Shock controllers, the PS5 now uses DualSense to take advantage of the console’s new capabilities.
It’s certainly heavier than the PS4’s controller, but the DualSense still has a solid weight and finish that feels solid and premium in the hand. Ideal for the Steam Deck, the PS5 DualSense features haptic feedback that takes the next step beyond traditional rumble and adaptive triggers for maximum immersion in racing and first-person shooters.
Xbox X Core Controller | S
Microsoft has produced some of the best video game controllers in recent years, with the launch of the Xbox One line. The Xbox Series X|S Wireless Core Controller is the latest default design, and aside from some minor button tweaks, it hasn’t changed much from the previous generation console in terms of overall design.
While Xbox has considered making DualSense-inspired changes to the Xbox controller, there’s no need to fix what’s not broken. The combination of a solid grip, solid feel, and streamlined button layout has effectively become the external controller of choice for many PC gamers. It’s not rechargeable, but comfortable ergonomics, build quality, and affordability make it reliable enough for Steam Floors.
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
Fans can now also enjoy full controller support for Nintendo controllers on the Steam Deck, thanks to the growing prominence of PC games and Valve’s platform, facade Steam store. Xbox and PlayStation controllers are certainly great options for cross-platform players or PC-focused players who just want the ideal external controller, but the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller is the a worthy candidate.
It starts with a seamless fit for playing your library of games on the Nintendo Switch in 2023, but the comfortable button layout and ergonomics also make the transition to the Steam Deck a smooth one. For the games it’s compatible with, the Switch Pro Controller also has a gyroscope aiming feature similar to the one built into the Steam Deck.
PlayStation 4 DualShock Controller
While it’s no longer the best option currently under the PlayStation brand, the PS4’s DualShock 4 is still a solid controller to use on the Steam Deck. Considering the more plastic feel and lighter weight of the controller, it might be a bit jarring for those who have ditched the aforementioned PS5’s DualSense.
However, the standard PS4 controller is solidly built and has a comfortable button layout. Likewise, all buttons feel responsive, including those that trigger R1, R2, L1, and L2. PlayStation controllers have been officially supported through Steam for years, so switching from Windows to SteamOS for the Steam Deck should be straightforward.
8BitDo Pro 2 . Bluetooth Controller
8BitDo has been making some of the best devices on the market as far as third-party controllers come in. They are affordable, high quality, and versatile for gaming use cases. The 8BitDo Pro 2 Bluetooth Controller is clearly modeled after the classic Super Nintendo controller, with a comfortable, simple design and ergonomic layout, making it a great choice for a variety of other games. together.
It’s also a highly customizable controller, as players can switch between three different user-customizable controller configurations, button mapping, and respective apps to personalize it. . With a vintage-inspired design, the 8BitDo Pro 2 controller is also perfect for playing classic video games from the 8-bit era onwards using emulators on the Steam Deck.
Babito Ultimate Xbox Wired Controller
For those who might want a classic/modern combo controller experience, the recently launched Ultimate Bluetooth Controller by 8BitDo could be a good choice. The controller looks similar to the standard Xbox Core controller, but blends elements typical of other 8BitDo controllers. The controller had some limited compatibility with the Steam Deck at launch, but the updates make it a perfect fit for the system.
Interestingly, the controller’s directional pad uses a typical 8BitDo style, reminiscent of a Nintendo gamepad. In addition to the D-pad, the Xbox 8BitDo Ultimate Wired Controller features all of the enhancements of the Pro 2 model, including retouchable buttons, an additional pair of back buttons, instant profile switching, and apps corresponding.
PowerA Enhanced Wired Xbox Controller
Pairing an Xbox Core controller with a PC may be the PC gaming accessory of choice for many gamers, but PowerA offers some solid alternatives with its design. When it comes to more budget-friendly options, PowerA has established itself as a solid source for third-party controllers, with the company’s best picks including Nintendo and Xbox.
PowerA’s innovative Xbox wired controller features a solid, standard Xbox design that won’t surprise fans of a first-party release, complete with a share button and a spin button for audio switching of the headset/headphone. It also has a number of programmable buttons and the controller is available in several different colors. The controller is affordable, and gamers can opt for the higher-end Spectra line if they want more customization options.
steam controller
Many gamers could be forgiven for forgetting, but Valve also created its own controversial controller. Admittedly, the Steam Controller has a quirky design and ergonomic layout, but with some similarities to the Steam Deck itself, it is very comfortable to use once you get used to it.
The controller was originally designed to compete with the game streaming hardware/software service Steam Link, however, both the controller and the controller have since been discontinued. It has a touchpad similar to the one on the Steam Deck to mimic mouse input and button mapping software. Since the controller is out of production, buying a used set is the only option, but for passionate PC gamers and Steam Deck fans, it’s something to consider.
Source: Xbox/Youtube