5 Fixes For "Can'T Use Control While Keyboard Is Connected" On Steam

Are you frustrated with the pesky message "Can't use control while keyboard is connected" on Steam? You're not alone! This error can throw a wrench in your gaming sessions, especially when you're trying to enjoy your favorite titles with a controller. Fear not; there are several effective solutions to help you troubleshoot this issue and get back to gaming smoothly. 🎮✨

In this post, we’ll share some helpful tips, advanced techniques, and common mistakes to avoid while using Steam with your controller. Let's dive in!

Understanding the Issue

Before diving into the fixes, let’s clarify what this error message typically means. It often occurs when you have both a keyboard and a controller connected to your PC, and Steam is having a hard time prioritizing the input device you want to use. This can lead to confusion and hinder your gaming experience.

Fixes for "Can't Use Control While Keyboard Is Connected"

1. Disconnect and Reconnect Your Devices

Sometimes, the simplest fix is the best. Disconnect your keyboard and controller, then reconnect them one at a time:

1. Disconnect your keyboard from the USB port.
2. Reconnect your controller.
3. Launch Steam and see if the issue persists.
4. If the controller works, try reconnecting the keyboard.

Pro Tip: If you are using a USB hub, try connecting your devices directly to the computer to rule out hub issues.

2. Disable the Steam Input Per-Game Setting

Steam has an option that manages how controllers interact with games. If you’re facing issues, it might be helpful to disable the Steam Input Per-Game Setting.

1. Open Steam and navigate to your Library.
2. Right-click on the game that is giving you trouble and select Properties.
3. Go to the Controller tab.
4. Change the Override for [Game Name] option to Disable Steam Input.
5. Launch the game and check if the issue is resolved.

3. Check for Game-Specific Settings

Certain games have specific input settings that can override Steam’s general settings. Here’s how to check:

1. Start the game in question.
2. Navigate to the Settings menu within the game.
3. Look for Input or Controller Settings.
4. Ensure that controller support is enabled.

4. Update Your Drivers

Outdated drivers can lead to various connectivity issues. It’s important to keep your device drivers updated:

1. Right-click on the Start button and select Device Manager.
2. Expand the Human Interface Devices section and locate your controller.
3. Right-click on the controller and choose Update Driver.
4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software and follow the prompts.

Pro Tip: You can also check for keyboard and USB driver updates in the same way.

5. Use Big Picture Mode

Steam’s Big Picture Mode is designed for gaming with controllers and can sometimes solve input issues:

1. Open Steam and click on the Big Picture Mode icon (usually found at the top right).
2. Once in Big Picture Mode, navigate to your Library and launch the game.
3. See if the error message appears while using the controller.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

As you work through troubleshooting, keep these common mistakes in mind:

• Not updating Steam: Ensure you have the latest version of Steam installed.
• Using incompatible controllers: Make sure your controller is compatible with Steam.
• Forgetting to check for game updates: An outdated game can also cause compatibility issues.

Troubleshooting Issues

If you’ve tried the above fixes and still face the "Can't use control while keyboard is connected" issue, consider the following:

• Restart Steam: Sometimes a simple restart can reset things and resolve the issue.
• Test with another controller: Try using a different controller to see if the problem lies with the original one.
• Look for conflicting software: Programs like Razer Synapse or any gaming overlay can interfere with controller recognition.

<div class="faq-section"> <div class="faq-container"> <h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Why does Steam show "Can't use control while keyboard is connected"?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>This message typically indicates that Steam is confused about which input device to prioritize when both a keyboard and controller are connected.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Can I use my keyboard and controller simultaneously on Steam?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, but you may encounter issues if Steam doesn't recognize which one to use. Following troubleshooting steps can help resolve these conflicts.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>How do I check if my controller is compatible with Steam?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Most controllers work with Steam, but it's best to check the manufacturer's website for compatibility information.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>Is there a way to reset my Steam input settings?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Yes, go to Steam Settings > Controller > General Controller Settings and uncheck any active options to reset your input settings.</p> </div> </div> <div class="faq-item"> <div class="faq-question"> <h3>What should I do if my controller isn't being detected?</h3> <span class="faq-toggle">+</span> </div> <div class="faq-answer"> <p>Try reconnecting the controller, checking for driver updates, and testing it on another device to determine if it is working properly.</p> </div> </div> </div> </div>

Conclusion

In conclusion, tackling the "Can't use control while keyboard is connected" error on Steam can be a breeze with the right knowledge. By following the solutions we've laid out—from disconnecting devices to updating drivers—you can effectively address the issue and enjoy your gaming experience to the fullest. Remember to check your game-specific settings and don’t overlook the power of Big Picture Mode!

Don't let this error interrupt your gaming flow. Practice these solutions, explore related tutorials, and continue honing your gaming skills. Happy gaming! 🎮

<p class="pro-note">🎮Pro Tip: Regularly check for Steam and game updates to keep everything running smoothly!</p>