The Best Steam Deck Controllers in 2024: Elevate Your Gaming Experience

The Steam Deck has taken the gaming world by storm, offering a portable and powerful way to play your favorite games on the go. However, to get the most out of your Steam Deck, you need a controller that can keep up with its capabilities. With so many options available, choosing the right controller can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you find the best Steam Deck controller for your needs.

The Steam Deck is a powerful handheld console that deserves a controller that can match its performance.

1. 8BitDo Ultimate Controller: The Best Overall Steam Deck Controller

The 8BitDo Ultimate Controller is a top contender for the best Steam Deck controller overall. With its Hall effect sticks and triggers, this controller offers precision and accuracy that’s hard to match. The included charging dock and configurable app make it easy to customize your gaming experience. Plus, with a battery life of 30 hours, you can play for hours on end without needing to recharge.

“The 8BitDo Ultimate controller is one of the ultimate choices when picking up a game controller.” - Our review

The 8BitDo Ultimate Controller is a top choice for Steam Deck gamers.

2. 8BitDo SN30 Pro: The Best Retro Steam Deck Controller

If you’re looking for a retro gaming experience on your Steam Deck, the 8BitDo SN30 Pro is the way to go. This controller’s compact design and Hall effect sticks make it perfect for playing classic games on the go. Plus, with a battery life of 18 hours, you can play for hours without needing to recharge.

The 8BitDo SN30 Pro is a great option for retro gaming on your Steam Deck.

3. Nacon Revolution 5 Pro: The Best Premium Steam Deck Controller

If you’re looking to splurge on a premium controller, the Nacon Revolution 5 Pro is worth considering. With its two-stage trigger stop, wireless Bluetooth 5.2, and onboard audio mixing, this controller offers a premium gaming experience. Plus, with a battery life of 10 hours, you can play for hours without needing to recharge.

The Nacon Revolution 5 Pro is a premium controller that’s worth considering.

4. GameSir T4 Kaleid: The Best Wired Steam Deck Controller

If you prefer a wired gaming experience, the GameSir T4 Kaleid is a great option. With its dual programmable buttons, dual rumble motors, and gyroscope, this controller offers a precise and immersive gaming experience. Plus, with its gorgeous transparent design, it’s a great addition to any gaming setup.

The GameSir T4 Kaleid is a great option for wired gaming on your Steam Deck.

5. 8BitDo Pro 2: The Best Budget Steam Deck Controller

If you’re on a budget, the 8BitDo Pro 2 is a great option. With its retro design, gyro functionality, and classic d-pad, this controller offers a great gaming experience at an affordable price. Plus, with a battery life of 18 hours, you can play for hours without needing to recharge.

The 8BitDo Pro 2 is a great budget option for Steam Deck gamers.

What to Consider When Buying a Controller for Steam Deck

When purchasing a controller for your Steam Deck, there are a few things to consider. First, think about how the controller connects to the handheld. While Bluetooth controllers are convenient, a 2.4GHz connection can offer a more stable gaming experience. Additionally, look for controllers with Hall effect sticks, which offer precision and accuracy that’s hard to match.

Do Official PS5 & Xbox Controllers Work on Steam Deck?

While official PS5 and Xbox controllers can work on Steam Deck, they may not offer the best gaming experience. These controllers lack Hall effect sticks, which can lead to drift issues over time. If you already have one of these controllers lying around, it may be worth considering, but if you’re looking for a premium gaming experience, it’s worth investing in a controller specifically designed for Steam Deck.

Do Third-Party Controllers Work on Steam Deck?

Thanks to SteamOS, third-party controllers work just fine on Steam Deck. Don’t be afraid to explore options from lesser-known brands, as many offer high-quality controllers that are compatible with Steam Deck.