Yes—Steam can connect to two controllers, but whether both work as separate players depends on the game. Check that the specific game supports controller input and local multiplayer for at least two players; a Steam controller-support label alone does not confirm that.
What determines whether two controllers work?
Steam can recognize more than one connected controller, but each game decides how to use those inputs. Steam’s Big Picture guidance says, “Any Steam game can be played while in Big Picture mode, though not all Steam games support the use of a controller.” Steam Support: Steam’s Big Picture mode
For two people to play together on one computer, the game needs to support local multiplayer and recognize each controller as a separate player. A game may accept a controller for menus or single-player play without offering two-player local play.
How to check a game before connecting controllers
- Open the game’s Steam store page and check its controller-support information. Full Controller Support means the game can be downloaded, launched, and played using only a controller. Partial Controller Support means a mouse or keyboard may be needed for some setup or interface tasks.
- Check the store page’s player and local-multiplayer details for support for at least two local players. Neither Full nor Partial Controller Support states how many players can use controllers simultaneously.
- If the game’s listing does not make the player setup clear, check the game’s own documentation or settings before assuming that two connected controllers will work as two players.
Connect both controllers
Use connection methods supported by both your computer and the controllers: commonly USB, Bluetooth, or a controller-specific wireless receiver. Steam’s USB and Bluetooth directions in its Steam Machine Feature & Troubleshooting guide apply to Steam Machine hardware; the exact pairing steps for other computers vary by operating system and device.
#1 Best Overall
- With broad game support, the Logitech Gamepad F310 works with old standbys to today's biggest titles, so it's easy to set up and use with your favorite games.
- Profiler software allows the gamepad to be programmed to perform keyboard and mouse commands for games without gamepad support.* * Requires software installation.
- A familiar control layout that doesn't require a learning curve to be able to use, with all the same buttons as on an Xbox 360.
- The unique floating D-pad rests on four switches-instead of a single pivot point-making it responsive to quick changes in direction.
- The six-foot cord lets you lean back and play a comfortable distance from your PC monitor.
After connecting both controllers, launch the game and check whether it assigns each one to a different player. If it does not, consult the game’s control or multiplayer settings; controller assignment is game-specific.
If the game does not recognize both controllers
- Restart with both connected. Close and reopen the game after connecting the controllers. If needed, restart Steam as well.
- Isolate a possible input conflict. Disconnect other input devices temporarily and test the controllers one at a time. Steam’s multiple-controller troubleshooting guidance also suggests checking for conflicting third-party programs. Its page concerns the Steam Controller (2015), so treat these as troubleshooting ideas, not universal requirements: Steam Controller (2015): Problems using multiple controllers.
- For intermittent USB behavior, try another port. Steam also recommends disconnecting other USB devices or changing the hub arrangement when addressing USB connection or responsiveness problems: Troubleshooting USB Connection and Contention Issues.
Controller and platform limits to keep in mind
Steam’s Big Picture documentation lists official Microsoft Xbox controllers, Sony DualShock 4 and DualSense controllers, Nintendo Switch Pro controllers, and Steam Controller support. Steam says third-party controllers often work but are not officially supported. Compatibility with Steam or a controller family does not guarantee that a particular game supports two-player input.
Rank #2
- Wide Compatibility: VOYEE wired 360 controller compatible with Microsoft Xbox 360 & Slim/ PC (Windows 11/10/8.1/8/7). Just plug and play, not for FPS games
- Enhanced Game Controller: Upgraded PC 360 controller with new left and right trigger buttons and more sensitive joysticks and buttons - Respond quickly to player commands without delay
- Astonishing Gaming Experience: VOYEE wired pc controller provides rumble control and according to the game automatic vibration feedback to enhanced game experience and match your personal preference
- Ergonomic Design: Grips's contours have been designed to fit your hands more comfortably to hold for a long time and 7.2ft cord allows greater
- What You Get: VOYEE wired 360/PC Controller, 45 Days Money Back, 365 Days Guarantee Against quality defect and 24 Hours Friendly Customer Support
Input behavior can also depend on how a game handles DirectInput and XInput devices. Steam Support notes that Windows restricts XInput devices to four; that is a Windows input limit, not a promise that a game supports four players. Steam Controller (2015): Problems using multiple controllers
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Platform Compatibility: This PC controller is designed for Windows PC, Steam, Switch, Android, and iOS. Xbox-style asymmetric stick layout for PC gamers. Three modes cover all your devices. Please check your device compatibility before purchase
- Three Connection Modes: 2.4G wireless, Bluetooth, wired USB-C. PC gets native XInput/DirectInput. Switch pairs via Bluetooth, no adapter. This gaming PC controller switches devices seamlessly. Stable wireless minimizes random disconnects during gaming
- Hall Effect Precision: Hall effect joysticks and triggers eliminate stick drift. This gaming controller for PC delivers smooth, responsive input with no dead zones. Built for FPS, racing, and action games. Long-term precision for competitive PC gaming
- Back Buttons & Battery: Two programmable back buttons map combos and shortcuts. Textured grips with dual vibration. 1000mAh battery delivers up to 20H playtime. RGB can be turned off. A solid PC controller for gaming with custom back buttons
- ABXY Layout Switch: Press B + Minus + Plus to swap between PC and Switch modes. Features: 1000Hz polling rate, RGB lighting, turbo. Note: designed without mic jack or gyro sensor
Rank #4
- Universal Multi-Platform Compatibility: Works seamlessly with Windows PC, Switch/Switch 2, Android, and iOS via USB-C, 2.4G wireless (1000Hz), or Bluetooth (125Hz). Note: Not compatible with X-box, Play-Station, Luna, or GeForce
- Ultra-Quiet Silent Gaming: Silicone-damped buttons for whisper-quiet operation. Perfect for late-night gaming without disturbing family or roommates. All buttons redesigned for silent play—ABXY, D-pad, triggers, and function keys
- Hall Effect Precision Technology: Drift-free 11-bit Hall Effect joysticks with 1000Hz polling rate in wired/2.4G modes for ultra-fast competitive response. Bluetooth mode offers 125Hz for mobile gaming. Long-lasting durability guaranteed
- Advanced Trigger & Programmability: Dual-stage adjustable triggers with 2+2 rumble motors for realistic feedback. Two top-mounted programmable buttons avoid accidental presses—solving common back-paddle issues for competitive advantage
- Ergonomic Comfort & Endurance: Sweat-resistant silicone grip for marathon sessions. 1000mAh rechargeable battery for extended play. Upgraded 8-way D-pad with dome switches delivers precise diagonal control for fighting and retro games
Rank #3
- 【Supported Operating System】The Game Controller is specifically designed for playing classic old school retro snes games on computer or laptop. Compatible with Windows 98 / ME / Vista / 2000/2003 / XP / 7 / 8 / 8.1 / 10/11, Mac OS X/ OS X 10.0 and beyond, Raspberry Pi, Raspberry PI 2 model B,Model A, Raspberry Pi 1 Model B+, Raspberry Pi 2,Raspberry Pi OS, Raspberry Pi 3 Model B+, Raspberry Pi 3, Raspberry Pi Zero.
- 【Simple USB Plug and Play】If your program or application accepts USB controller input, this classic game controller do not need install drivers or patches. 1.5 meter external cable(approx. 5 ft. Long). Notice: Please download the game emulator first before start the games, and then you must manually set the buttons and directionals within the emulator you're using, and the controller not automatically assigns buttons/directional axes. If on the Steam platform, you need to first enable Steam's "Universal Controller Configuration Support" and then restart Steam. After entering the game, you also need to manually bind key positions in the game
- 【High Sensitivity without Delay】Super sensitive buttons for precision control: 6 fire buttons, a 'Start' button and a 'Select' button, motion control cross. Play your favorite old school games with classic retro feel. Fits perfectly in the hand and also perfect for two player action.Note: Not applicable to Switch/PS games. Not Compatible with TV/ TV Box, third Mini Games Box and Tesla Model 3
- 【Supported Game Emulators】The game controller works with most emulators. Download any emulator you wish to download and use from Google and do the same with ROMS. Notice:Third party controller, not original controller. But it works phenomenal with the Raspberry Pi game emulation and so on
- 【Product Service】If you have any problem during use, send message to us and we will help you to solve the problem soon
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
