To set up a gamepad for Steam, you need a physical controller connected to the Steam Link app on a mobile device or directly to your computer.
How to set up a gamepad for Steam: what you need
Before starting, confirm you have a Steam computer running Windows, Mac, or Linux on the same local network as your mobile device. Your mobile device must be compatible, iPhone or iPad require iOS 11.0 or later, while Android devices need Android 9.0 or newer for certain controllers. Finally, you need a supported controller: Steam officially lists the Steam Controller, Microsoft Xbox One S Controller, Sony DUALSHOCK 4 (on Android 9.0 and newer), and Razer Kishi/Raiju Mobile for Android. Other input devices may work without official support.
Install the Steam Link app on your mobile device
Download the Steam Link app from Google Play for Android or the App Store for iPhone/iPad. Apple devices require iOS 11.0 or later. No separate driver package is needed for the gamepad itself, the app handles controller recognition. Some gamepads may come with their own software or configuration utilities.
Connect your mobile device and computer to the same network
Ensure both your Steam computer and mobile device are on the same local network. The Apple App Store listing explicitly states this requirement for iPhone and iPad. Your computer must be powered on, with Steam running and signed in.
Pair your gamepad with the Steam Link app
- On your computer, start Steam and sign in.
- On your mobile device, open the Steam Link app.
- Follow the on-screen pairing instructions provided by the app. For officially supported controllers like the Xbox One S, DUALSHOCK 4, or Razer Kishi, the app will guide you through Bluetooth or USB pairing.
The documented setup flow is: connect the computer, start Steam, pair the controller, then open Steam Link and follow the on-screen pairing steps.
Test your gamepad and fix common issues
Launch a game and verify that buttons and sticks respond correctly. If the controller is not recognized, check the list of officially supported devices, Steam’s Android page notes that other devices may work unofficially. In Steam, go to Settings > Controller, or in Big Picture mode click the gear icon for Controller Settings. Check the game's settings menu for further gamepad configuration. Recalibrate the gamepad option within the game's settings menu. Save and backup your gamepad configuration settings for use on another computer or reinstall. Check the manufacturer's website for firmware or driver updates for the gamepad. Check the game's documentation or online forums for specific gamepad setup instructions. For troubleshooting, update Steam, your operating system, or controller firmware if available. The Steam Controller support page recommends these updates for resolving input issues. Contact the game's support or the gamepad manufacturer's support for unresolved issues. If problems persist, no dedicated troubleshooting flow beyond these update and compatibility notes is documented for iPhone or Android gamepads.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which gamepads are officially supported on Android?
Other input devices may work but lack official support.
What iPhone version is required for Steam Link?
The App Store listing says iOS 11.0 or later is required for iPhone or iPad.
Do iPhone and the Steam PC need to be on the same network?
Yes, the App Store listing states they must be on the same local network as the Steam computer.
Is a separate driver installation needed for Bluetooth controllers on iPhone or Android?
No. The Steam Link app handles controller recognition.
Can I use a PlayStation or Xbox controller with Steam Link?
Yes. The Xbox One S Controller and DUALSHOCK 4 are officially supported on Android.
For the wider topic, see gamepad setup and troubleshooting.
