Valve introduces reservation system for Steam Controller

On 8 May 2026, Valve launched a reservation system for the Steam Controller, which has been on sale since 4 May. Customers who were unable to buy the controller because of high demand will be able to reserve their place in the queue for the next stock drop through this system.

Details of the reservation system

The reservation system goes live on 8 May 2026 at 10am Pacific Time (6pm UK time). The Steam Controller costs £85. However, there is currently no confirmation of when the controller will be back in stock, and restocks will vary by region.

Reservation restrictions

To prevent scalpers from snapping up Steam Controller stock, Valve has imposed strict conditions on the reservation system:

• A maximum of one Steam Controller per user.

• Users who have already purchased a Steam Controller are not eligible.

• After receiving the order email, users have 72 hours to complete their purchase.

• A Steam account must be in 'good standing'.

• Accounts that made a purchase before 27 April 2026 are eligible.

Customer experience and reactions

Valve acknowledged that the buying experience has been frustrating for many customers, especially given the high demand for the Steam Controller. “While we’re happy with the high level of interest, the experience for many of you trying to buy one has been incredibly frustrating,” Valve said in a recent statement.

The new Steam Controller is an upgrade over the original model released in 2015. Users have given positive feedback on the improvements, including a rechargeable battery, better sticks and buttons, and a sturdier build. The iconic touchpad, which enables mouse control, has also been retained, although its placement has become a point of debate.

If you’re interested in reserving a Steam Controller, make sure you meet the requirements and keep an eye on your email for further instructions after reserving. This approach from Valve could help provide better and fairer access to the popular controller.