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There's a stunning statistic in the world of gaming: the Steam Deck. In fact, more than 1.5 million people bought this device in 2022 alone.
But the real magic behind this gaming phenomenon doesn't merely lie in the device itself.
There are also a breadth and depth of accessories that can catapult your gaming experience from merely satisfying to utterly exhilarating.
The problem is that it can be difficult to know which accessories are the best for your needs.
To make things easier for you, we've written a guide that breaks down the best Steam deck accessories. Keep reading if you'd like to find out more.
What Is a Steam Deck?
The Steam Deck is a breakthrough in portable gaming, a handheld PC that brings the richness of PC gaming right into the palm of your hands. It's a device created by Valve.
This is the same company behind the popular gaming platform, Steam. What makes the Steam Deck truly unique is its ability to play your favorite Steam games anytime, anywhere.
Imagine carrying your entire PC gaming library in your pocket, ready to be explored at your convenience. This is what the Steam Deck can do for you.
This device packs a powerful punch despite its small size. With a custom APU developed for handheld gaming, the Steam Deck can run AAA games smoothly.
It features a 7-inch touchscreen, which gives you a crystal-clear view of your gaming world. Plus, it has a versatile control layout.
It combines gamepad controls and a pair of trackpads and offers a comfortable gaming experience reminiscent of traditional PC gaming.
The Steam Deck is perfect for gamers on the go or for those who want a more portable way to engage with their favorite PC games.
The device appeals to a broad spectrum of people. Whether you're a teen or college student looking to unwind after a hard day of studies or an adult gamer, the Steam Deck has something for everyone.
It's designed for those who love the allure of PC gaming but crave the convenience and portability of handheld devices. If you love playing games, then the Steam Deck just might be your next favorite gadget.
Must-have Steam Deck Accessories
Investing in accessories for the Steam Deck significantly enhances the versatility and longevity of your device. A quality case protects your gadget, while a docking station allows you to play games on a larger screen.
Additional controllers can bring your friends and family into the action for multiplayer gaming. And high-capacity memory cards ensure you never run out of space for new games.
Essentially, each Steam Deck peripheral enriches your overall experience. It is easy to customize the device to your preferences and lifestyle.
1. 6-Port Steam Deck Docking Station
A must-have among the best Steam Deck accessories is the 6-Port Docking Station. This game-changing device expands the capabilities of your Steam Deck by providing additional ports.
This will make it possible for you to connect your device to a television or computer monitor for a big-screen gaming experience. Some models even offer extra USB ports, Ethernet, and an audio jack.
When choosing a docking station, look for one that is specifically designed for the Steam Deck, such as the Baseus GamerX 6 Ports USB C Steam Deck Docking Station.
Understand that this docking station's metal support is not blocking the ventilation hole. In fact, the metal materials help to cool the device down
2. USB-C Hub
Another important accessory for the Steam Deck is a USB-C Hub. With the Steam Deck being a handheld PC, you'll want to connect more than just game controllers.
A USB-C hub can connect your device to a keyboard, mouse, external storage devices, or even another monitor. Some hubs also feature card readers, Ethernet ports, and HDMI outputs.
You can use these features to further expand your connectivity options. When shopping for a USB-C hub, it's crucial to check for power delivery capabilities.
By doing this, you will have peace of mind in knowing that your Steam Deck stays charged during those long gaming sessions.
3. Cooling Dock
A Cooling Dock is an indispensable Steam Deck accessory, especially for those who engage in hours-long gaming marathons.
It will prevent your device from overheating so that it will maintain optimal performance. A cooling dock typically features a fan or cooling vents, designed to keep the temperature of your device down.
Some models even have additional features like integrated speakers or charging ports. When choosing a cooling dock, check the noise levels of the fan and the overall design to make sure it fits your gaming setup.
4. Screen Protector Pack
A screen protector pack is a practical and necessary accessory for safeguarding the touchscreen of your Steam Deck. This will defend against scratches, fingerprints, and potential damage from accidental drops.
By investing in one of these accessories, your screen will stay clear and vibrant for the best possible gaming experience. When shopping for screen protectors, consider a pack that provides multiple protectors.
It is always good to have spares when you need them. Opt for a high-quality, durable material that offers clarity and responsiveness without compromising protection.
5. Steam Deck Power Bank
One of the best Steam Deck accessories to invest in is a Steam Deck Power Bank. The power bank ensures that your device stays charged up, particularly useful during long trips where access to a power source may be limited.
Look for a power bank that supports USB-C PD (Power Delivery) for fast, efficient charging.
Also, consider the power bank's capacity. A higher mAh (milliampere-hour) rating means it can charge your Steam Deck multiple times before it needs to be recharged itself.
6. Protective Shell Case
A Protective Shell Case is a must-have Steam Deck accessory. This case provides a sturdy external layer to protect your device from knocks, drops, and scratches.
Some cases even have built-in stands or storage for game cartridges and SD cards. When purchasing a protective shell case, consider its material and design.
A good case should be durable, offer a comfortable grip, and not obstruct any ports or controls. Also, check if the case allows for ventilation to prevent your Steam Deck from overheating.
7. A 3-Port Fast-Charging Wall Adapter
One accessory every PC gamer must consider for their Steam Deck is the 3-Port Fast-Charging Wall Adapter. The Steam Deck is all about portable gaming, and maintaining a full charge is critical.
A 3-Port Fast-Charging Wall Adapter ensures that you can simultaneously charge multiple devices, including your Steam Deck, phone, and more, with high-speed efficiency.
When choosing a wall adapter, look for ones that support fast-charging standards, like USB Power Delivery (PD) or Qualcomm Quick Charge.
It's also worth checking if the adapter has built-in protections against overcharging and overheating.
8. Long USB-C Cables
Long USB-C Cables are essential when using your Steam Deck in different settings, from your couch to a docking station setup. These cables provide flexibility in how and where you can use and charge your device.
When buying a USB-C cable, consider its durability, length, and data transfer speed. Look for cables with a sturdy, tangle-free design and a length that suits your gaming setup, such as this one: USB-C Fast Charging Cable 240W. This long USB-C cable is the longest at 10 feet, and with a record-breaking power output of up to 240W, you'll have no problem powering your Steam Deck.
Also, make sure the cable supports fast charging and high-speed data transfer for optimal performance.
9. Fast and Large MicroSD Card
As a PC gamer, you know the importance of having ample storage. With the Steam Deck, this means investing in a fast MicroSD Card that has a large storage capacity.
Even though the Steam Deck comes with built-in storage, expanding your storage capacity with a MicroSD card lets you carry your entire Steam library wherever you go.
Look for a card with a high storage capacity (128GB or more) and fast read/write speeds. The speed class of the MicroSD card, indicated by terms like UHS-I, UHS-II, or UHS-III, can give you an idea about its speed.
A faster card will reduce game loading times, providing a smoother gaming experience.
10. A Shoulder Bag for Your Steam Deck
The final accessory we'll discuss is a Shoulder Bag for your Steam Deck.
As a portable gaming device, the Steam Deck is designed to be taken wherever you go, and a quality shoulder bag can make this process safer and more convenient.
A good shoulder bag will have protective compartments for your Steam Deck, chargers, cables, and other accessories, while also being comfortable to carry.
When shopping for a bag, consider its size, the number of compartments, the quality of padding for device protection, and the overall build quality. Also, look for a design that suits your personal style.
The Best Steam Deck Accessories
If you've recently bought a Steam Deck or if you are thinking about investing in one, it is a great idea to familiarize yourself with the best Steam Deck accessories.
Make sure to find a high-quality USB-C hub and a 6-port docking station. You will also need to buy a screen protector pack and a protective shell case.
Lastly, consider buying an external power bank if you want to play games for many hours while you are on the go.
Are you ready to invest in the very best Steam Deck accessories? If so, Baseus can help you. Don't hesitate to visit our Products page to get started today!
