Steam Controller Sells Out Hours After Launch, Pre-Orders Open in Australia

Key facts

• Steam Controller launched on May 4, 2025, at $99.99 in the US.
• Controller was out of stock as of 3:01 pm ET on launch day.
• Australian pre-orders open May 5 at 03:00 AEST for $149 AUD.
• Features include magnetic thumbsticks, dual trackpads, haptic motors, and 35+ hour battery life.
• Brad Lynch, a VR and Valve tipster, noted recent shipments to Valve's distribution warehouse.
• Steam Machine and Steam Frame release dates remain unannounced, originally planned for March 2026.
• Valve has been debating whether to take a loss on Steam Machine pricing.

Launch Day Sellout

The second-generation Steam Controller launched on May 4, and within hours it was out of stock. As of 3:01 pm ET, Valve's online store showed no availability, a situation that persisted past 4:30 pm Pacific. The controller, priced at $99.99, is Valve's latest attempt at a dedicated PC gaming pad, designed to integrate with Steam, the Steam Deck OLED, and the upcoming Steam Machine.

Australian Pre-Orders Open Amid Global Shortage

While US customers face empty shelves, Australian gamers can pre-order the controller starting May 5 at 03:00 AEST for $149 AUD. The Australian listing on Steam warns that estimated delivery dates are already slipping, suggesting high demand. The controller includes a Steam Controller Puck, a wireless transmitter that doubles as a charging station.

Embargo Break Reveals Price

The $99.99 price point was leaked earlier when YouTube channel Techy Talk posted a review that appeared to break embargo. The video, since deleted but reuploaded elsewhere, disclosed the cost and detailed the controller's features. Valve had been silent on pricing since revealing the hardware in November 2024.

Supply Chain Constraints Delay Broader Hardware Launch

Valve originally planned to release the Steam Controller alongside the Steam Machine and Steam Frame in March 2026. Component shortages and cost increases forced delays. The Steam Machine, in particular, has been subject to internal debates over whether Valve should sell it at a loss to gain market traction. An announcement on its release is reportedly getting closer.

Shipment Signals Hint at Restock

Regular VR and Valve tipster Brad Lynch posted on social media about recent shipments arriving at Valve's distribution warehouse. The posts have fueled speculation that a restock of the Steam Controller may be imminent, though Valve has not confirmed a timeline. The company has not commented on the stock situation publicly.

Feature Set and Compatibility

The controller boasts magnetic thumbsticks, haptic motors, dual trackpads, and four customizable back buttons. It offers over 35 hours of battery life on a single charge and works with gaming PCs, laptops, the Steam Deck OLED, and the upcoming Steam Machine. The inclusion of a Steam Button and Quick Access menu button streamlines navigation within Steam's ecosystem.

What Comes Next for Valve's Hardware Ambitions

With the Steam Controller launched and already scarce, attention turns to the Steam Machine and Steam Frame. Valve has indicated that a release announcement is near, but pricing and exact dates remain unconfirmed. The company's willingness to absorb losses on hardware will be a key factor in its strategy. For now, the controller's rapid sellout signals strong demand for Valve's vision of PC gaming hardware.

The bottom line

• The Steam Controller launched on May 4 at $99.99 and sold out within hours in the US.
• Australian pre-orders are live at $149 AUD, with delivery estimates already extending.
• The price was leaked via an embargo-breaking YouTube review that was later deleted.
• Valve's broader hardware lineup, including the Steam Machine, remains delayed due to component shortages and internal pricing debates.
• Shipment data from tipster Brad Lynch suggests a restock may be coming soon.
• The controller features magnetic thumbsticks, dual trackpads, haptic motors, and 35+ hour battery life.