The Steam Controller is far from the only device with a charger featuring exposed metal pins for “drop in” convenience. The Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 charging station, for instance, advertises “copper pins for optimal conductivity.” Sony’s official DualSense Charging Station uses similar pins, though they are protected by recessed grooves and a retractable plastic piece that keeps them from being too exposed when not in use.
Microsoft and Sony’s examples are both optional accessories sold as alternatives to standard USB charging for the “core” controller itself, though. The Steam Controller comes pre-packaged with its magnetic charging puck, which doubles as the wireless adapter that extends the controller’s range across the room. That makes this a problem many users will need to be aware of going forward, especially since the Steam Controller sold out quickly after going on sale weeks ago.
Thankfully, Toikka wrote that they caught the issue with the watch band “just in time” and that it only caused “visual” damage to the device and its surroundings. The redditor added that they have been in touch with Valve’s hardware team, which will be sending a replacement puck and accepting delivery of the affected items “so they can reproduce the issue.”
For everyone else, let this be a reminder to keep your Steam Controller puck away from any metallic or magnetically sensitive objects.