8 Reasons The Steam Machine Will Destroy The Xbox One And PS4

2. ... Or You Can Use A Keyboard/Mouse, PS4 Or Xbox Gamepad

Not sold on the Steam Controller and prefer to stick with what you know? That's fine, because Steam Machines don't lock you into their ecosystems like the PS4 and Xbox One do, letting you use any controller you like for your gaming. Sure, if you're using your Steam Machine in the living room as you should be, then you're probably not envisioning slapping a plank on your lap and putting a keyboard and mouse on top of that. If that idea doesn't appeal to you, then you can just plug in an Xbox 360 or Xbox One wired controller and it'll work straight away. If the PS4 controller is more your thing (it is a mighty fine controller), then you can also just plug it in and it'll work with SteamOS - though you'll need to remap it by going to Settings > Controller in Big Picture. If you want it to work via Bluetooth, you may need to install a free tool like DS Input Mapper or Sixad. In summary, you can have an eclectic collection of controllers for your Steam Machine, or your friends can bring their PS4 and Xbox One pads over for gaming sessions - during which they'll be secretly envying the versatility of your mysterious new games console.