Valve now estimates Steam Controller orders could stretch into 2027, reports The Verge
The Steam Controller reservation queue has been given clearer timeframes, but some interested buyers may not be able to purchase the accessory until 2027.
Valve has started displaying more specific estimates for those reserving the Steam Controller, according to The Verge. The publication reports that the company now informs users of one of three windows to actually place their order for the controller: by September 2026, by December 2026, or at some point in 2027.
The change indicates that demand for the accessory remains above Valve's immediate capacity to fulfill orders. Because the available information comes from The Verge, it is not possible to independently confirm whether the timeframes reflect limited production, high reservation volumes, or a combination of both factors.
This case also highlights how reservation queues continue to be used by hardware companies to manage demand before opening orders. In the case of the Steam Controller, according to The Verge, the news is less about the launch of a new product and more about the transparency regarding when each consumer will be able to move from reservation to actual purchase.
For interested users, the practical takeaway is that new reservations may not convert into orders in the short term. As per the estimates reported by the publication, some consumers may have to wait until 2027 to purchase the controller.
When can I expect to order the Steam Controller after reserving it?
Valve is now providing three estimated order windows for reservations: by September 2026, by December 2026, or at some point in 2027.
Why are Steam Controller orders potentially delayed until 2027?
The extended timeframes suggest that demand for the controller exceeds Valve's current production capacity, though the exact cause of the delay has not been officially confirmed.
How is Valve handling Steam Controller purchases?
Valve is using a reservation queue system to manage high demand, recently adding more transparency by showing buyers specific estimated timeframes for when they can finalize their purchase.