The Steam Controller charging puck can catch fire if brought in prolonged contact with metallic objects, a user claims.
Reddit user Toikka has raised concerns about a potentially dangerous issue involving the wireless charging puck of the Steam Controller, claiming the accessory nearly caused a fire after coming into contact with a metallic smartwatch strap. They noticed that their smartwatch band accidentally bridged the puck’s exposed charging contacts while both devices were sitting nearby. According to them, the smartwatch itself was connected to its own charger when the metallic strap touched the puck “at the exact wrong angle,” causing an electrical short that quickly began generating heat and sizzling sounds.
The Reddit user mentioned that both the Steam puck and their Pixel Watch 4 survived the incident with only cosmetic damage, as seen in the image above. Despite the close call, they said they were not planning on blaming Valve Corporation or open a support ticket, instead telling other Steam Controller users to be careful around exposed metal objects.
If the puck is indeed at fault here, the issue may be caused by it drawing power immediately when conductive material connects all three exposed pins, seemingly without any kind of failsafe mechanism or authentication handshake in place. A scenario like that is ultimately dangerous, as the puck itself is magnetic and designed to attract or hold metallic objects nearby. Objects such as metallic smartwatch straps, keys, and chargers could accidentally shift into contact with the exposed pins without the user realizing it.
Some people in the Reddit thread’s comments section suggested that the Steam Controller’s puck design may not comply with stricter EU electrical safety standards. Valve Corporation has yet to make a statement regarding the situation.
The new Steam Controller was released on May 4, 2026. It sold out shortly after launch.
