15 Must-Have Free 3D-Printed Steam Deck Accessories That Will Elevate Your Gaming Experience

Valve made the CAD files for the Steam Deck available just before it was officially launched. This has allowed modders, tinkerers, and accessory makers to get a real feel for the device. The availability of these files for free has resulted in a wide range of 3D printed accessories and mods being created, all aimed at enhancing the gaming experience on the Steam Deck.

These accessories not only enhance the ergonomics of the Steam Deck but also offer options for expanding storage, protecting the device, and more. What's even better is that there is a vibrant community of designers who have come up with innovative designs for everyone to try, modify, and enhance.

While the 3D printing files for all the accessories mentioned are available for free, some of the accessories require purchasing additional hardware for assembly.

10 CYBERDECK Portable Steam Deck Briefcase

via: Printables

Introducing CYBERDECK, a compact briefcase housing the ultimate Steam Deck portable monitor setup. With its durable design featuring protective bumpers on the corners, it exudes a rugged aesthetic. The noteworthy "cyber" element of this innovation lies in its incorporated slot for a 12-inch monitor, which can conveniently be powered by the Steam Deck itself.

Additionally,

9 Clip-on Stand

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Say goodbye to the inconvenience faced by numerous Steam Deck users. Introducing the ingenious 3D-printed clip-on stand that effortlessly tackles the issue. While the kickstand that comes with the Nintendo Switch provides a temporary solution, it falls short in terms of stability. With our clip-on stand, even the weightier Steam Deck can securely stand upright on any reasonably level surface.

8 Deckmate – Ecosystem Of Accessories

While the controllers on the Steam Deck do not detach like those on the Switch, you can still use a wired or wireless controller, or even a keyboard and mouse, to operate the Steam Deck while it is propped up. It is important to keep in mind that you will need two M3 screws to assemble the clip-on stand.

via: Deckmate

The Deckmate, a cleverly designed clamp, offers a wide range of accessories for the Steam Deck. With two microSD card slots as a bonus, this clamp attaches to the back of the Deck and introduces a hot-swap mechanism. This feature opens up a plethora of possibilities, including compatibility with kickstands, wall mounts, power bank mounts, VESA mounts, and more.

7 Grip Extension

The Steam Deck attachment is a versatile accessory that requires some assembly and the purchase of necessary hardware. However, it can also be conveniently printed for free. For those who prefer a pre-assembled option, the Deckmate is available for purchase as a bundled product. Please note that to obtain the Deckmate 3D printing files at no cost, it is necessary to sign up for the Deckmate newsletter.

via: Printables

To alleviate the fatigue that may arise from prolonged gaming sessions in handheld mode with the Steam Deck due to its size and weight, the inclusion of 3D-printed grip extensions can significantly enhance comfort. These extensions effortlessly attach to the Steam Deck's existing grips and are specifically designed to seamlessly fit around the buttons located on its back.

6 Retractable Monopod For Steam Deck

The grip features a nub that facilitates proper alignment with the screw hole on the back of the Deck, securing it in position. However, in order for the Deck to fit snugly in its case, the grip extensions must be detached.

via: Printables

Enhancing the functionality of the Steam Deck, this innovative 3D-printed monopod incorporates the aforementioned clip from the clip-on kickstand, effectively providing an extending stand. While the practicality of mounting the Steam Deck on a monopod may be limited, a niche group could find utility in this accessory. However, it is important to note that the design does have room for improvement as the creator mentioned encountering issues with looseness after prolonged use.

As for the monopod, it has the capability to function as a support for the Deck when it is in a lowered or withdrawn state. Nevertheless, by making certain modifications and potentially utilizing sturdier materials, there is room for enhancing the monopod's performance.

5 DeckBro v1 HDD/SSD Mount

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When it comes to games, having enough storage is always a challenge. However, the DeckBro v1 accessory offers a solution by allowing users to add an external 2.5-inch SSD or hard drive to the back of the Steam Deck. To make it work, you'll need a USB-C dongle of a specific size and a SATA to USB cable. Keep in mind that unlike other 3D printed accessories, the Steam Deck's SteamOS UI doesn't automatically detect external USB storage devices. You'll need to make some adjustments and tweaks for it to recognize the added storage.

This handy tutorial by steamdeckhq can help with forcing the Steam Deck to recognize an external storage drive as a place to store games.

4 Analogue Stick Protectors

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Most controllers experience a common issue known as joystick drift as they age, excluding those equipped with Hall Effect joysticks. The Steam Deck, on the other hand, does not employ Hall Effect joysticks. Thankfully, there have been no notable complaints thus far, apart from initial software-related issues that have already been resolved.

3 Carrying Case Accessory Insert

To prolong the lifespan of the Steam Deck's joysticks and prevent drift, it is recommended to utilize analog stick protectors to secure the sticks in their resting position. By doing so, unnecessary movement is avoided, effectively minimizing any potential damage or deterioration.

via: Printables

This smart addition to the Steam Deck case effectively utilizes the recessed area at the bottom. It allows Deck owners to conveniently store their charger along with its wire, as well as a few SD cards. The insert effortlessly slides into the recessed area and is secured by an elastic band that wraps around it. Although it slightly protrudes from the case, a slight modification to the design could enhance the fit.

While this design comes with full-size SD cardholders, there are remixes with slots for microSD cards, which is what the Steam Deck uses.

2 Lifesaver Drop Protection

via: Printables

To ensure the Steam Deck stays securely in place, even if the case is accidentally picked up with the zip open, the Lifesaver drop protection 3D printed accessory comes to the rescue. This handy accessory fits seamlessly into the case, utilizing the interior seams to remain firmly in position.

The Deck can be inserted into the case, and the Lifesaver will securely attach to the Deck. The Lifesaver features a slot through which the case ribbon can pass, allowing for convenient detachment of the Steam Deck.

1 Secure MicroSD Card Holder (6 Slots)

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For those who prefer to use multiple microSD cards for their Steam Deck games and frequently switch between them, this convenient six-slot cardholder is the ideal accessory. It securely attaches itself inside the Steam Deck case using the internal ribbon.

The carrying case can accommodate up to six microSD cards, ensuring their constant storage. Additionally, the slots emit a click sound to indicate the secure placement of each microSD card.