Handheld gaming PCs are definitely strong enough to handle AAA games, at least if you dial down the settings a bit. This means they also have the potential to run regular software that doesn’t relate to gaming. Even a Steam Deck, with its somewhat dated hardware, is more than capable of acting as a mini PC, whether it’s running Linux or even Windows. The catch, however, is that these devices are designed to be used in your hands, which makes them tricky to operate like a traditional computer.
Sure, you can connect peripherals to your gaming handheld, such as an external monitor, keyboard, and mouse. That’s great at home or in the office, but when you’re out and about, it’s not quite as convenient. This bulky-looking 3D-printed case for the Steam Deck aims to tackle this issue creatively by incorporating space for a keyboard, which can turn the portable gaming machine into a little laptop in no time—just in case you want a more functional use out of the powerful handheld PC.
Designer: Justinas Jakubovskis (Natter_LT)
Taking a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse around isn’t too inconvenient, but trying to use them without a desk is almost impossible. This 3D-printed case resolves that headache by integrating a Logitech Pebble Keys 2 keyboard with the Steam Deck, although the narrow kickstand may still pose a challenge if you’re trying to balance this mini laptop on your lap. Plus, you’ll have to work with a 7.4-inch screen which is kinda usable, but not all that comfy or ergonomic.
Of course, you can still utilize the Steam Deck as a handheld gaming device. Just pop it out of the hard case if you wanna hold it in your hands again. But, if you prefer games that are better suited with a keyboard and mouse, this laptop-like setup might work better for you. You may wanna have a mouse for that, but the Steam Deck’s trackpads work fine if there’s no table available. The case has cutouts for accessing the Steam Deck’s ports even while it’s inside the case.
