10 Steam Deck Mods to Take Your GAMING to the Next Level

Summary

This video covers the top mods and accessories for the Steam Deck, highlighting upgrades to enhance performance, aesthetics, and functionality. From Hall effect joysticks that prevent drift to customizable shells, advanced software mods like Cryo Utilities and Decky Loader, and tools for emulation with Emu Deck, there’s something for every Steam Deck owner. The video also explores accessories like third-party cases, custom backplates, and modular attachments like Deck Made, ensuring users can tailor their Steam Deck to their needs. Whether you want smoother gameplay, better customization, or retro gaming options, these mods will elevate your experience.

Takeaways

• 😀 Valve's Steam Deck OLED model has undergone significant internal changes to accommodate the new OLED display, but the exterior design remains the same, so most outer mods will still work.
• 😀 Hall effect joysticks, such as those from Ghouly Kit, are a great upgrade for eliminating drift and providing smoother, snappier controls, but may not be essential for all users.
• 😀 Third-party cases like those from TomTalk and dbrand offer enhanced style and functionality beyond the included hard case, with options for both slim travel cases and heavy-duty armor cases.
• 😀 Custom shells, such as retro designs and wood grain finishes from ExtremeRate, allow for advanced customization but require disassembly of the Steam Deck, so caution is advised.
• 😀 YellowPlay offers a build-your-own service, allowing users to customize their Steam Deck with options for color, storage, and upgrades like clicky button mods or Hall effect joysticks.
• 😀 For enhanced gaming freedom, users can opt for dual-boot setups or install Windows to access titles like Fortnite and Call of Duty, either with SteamOS or a dedicated Windows installation.
• 😀 Simpler customization options include custom back plates from JSO or vinyl wraps, offering a quick and easy way to refresh the look of your Steam Deck.
• 😀 Cryo Utilities is a useful software mod for optimizing storage and performance, though recent updates to SteamOS 3.5.5 have made some of these tweaks less critical.
• 😀 A reliable battery bank with at least 45 watts of power is essential for gaming on the go, with brands like Anker and Xiaomi offering affordable options that meet the Steam Deck's power requirements.
• 😀 DeckMade is a modular utility system that adds versatility with mounts, stands, and additional slots, and can be further customized with 3D-printed parts for those with access to a 3D printer.
• 😀 Upgrading the Steam Deck's SSD to a high-quality M2 2230 NVMe SSD enhances storage capacity and speeds up loading times, with step-by-step guides available for installation on iFixit.
• 😀 Decky Loader is a software tweak that unlocks a wide range of plugins for further customizing the Steam Deck, offering significant enhancements in usability and functionality.
• 😀 EmuDeck transforms the Steam Deck into an emulation powerhouse, integrating emulated games seamlessly into the Steam Library with features like CRT shaders and cloud backups for a smooth retro gaming experience.

Q & A

What are Hall Effect joysticks, and why are they a good upgrade for the Steam Deck?

Hall Effect joysticks use magnetic technology to eliminate joystick drift, providing a smoother and snappier feel. They are a good upgrade for users experiencing joystick drift, a common issue with traditional potentiometer-based joysticks.

What is the benefit of third-party cases for the Steam Deck, and what are some recommended brands?

Third-party cases provide more style and functionality than the stock hard case. Brands like TomTalk and dbrand offer slim travel cases or heavy-duty armor systems to suit different needs, allowing Steam Deck owners to choose based on their preferences for protection and aesthetics.

What should users consider when installing custom shells for the Steam Deck?

Installing custom shells, like those from ExtremeRate, can change the look of your Steam Deck with retro-inspired designs or wood grain finishes. However, this upgrade requires disassembling the Steam Deck, making it more suitable for users with some technical expertise.

How does the 'Build Your Own Steam Deck' service from Yellow Plays work?

Yellow Plays' service allows users to customize their Steam Deck, choosing color, storage size, and additional upgrades like clicky buttons or magnetic joysticks. It also offers dual-booting options for Steam and Windows, giving users more flexibility in their gaming experience.

What are custom back plates and vinyl wraps, and how do they enhance the Steam Deck?

Custom back plates and vinyl wraps offer an easy way to personalize your Steam Deck’s exterior. These modifications are simple to install, allowing users to change the appearance of their device without needing to disassemble it.

What is Cryo Utilities, and how does it help optimize the Steam Deck's performance?

Cryo Utilities is a software mod designed to optimize the Steam Deck's storage and performance, making the gaming experience smoother. While some SteamOS updates have reduced its impact, it can still be useful for improving performance.

Why is a reliable battery bank important for gaming on the go, and which brands are recommended?

A reliable battery bank is essential for gamers who play on the go, ensuring the Steam Deck stays powered during long sessions. Recommended brands like Anker and Xiaomi offer 45W power banks that meet the Steam Deck’s power requirements without the need for expensive models.

What is the Deck Made modular attachment system, and how does it enhance the Steam Deck?

The Deck Made modular attachment system adds versatility to the Steam Deck with mounts, stands, and other custom parts. It’s easy to install and can be personalized, especially if you have access to a 3D printer to create your own components.

How can upgrading the SSD improve the Steam Deck's performance?

Upgrading to a higher-quality M2 2230 NVMe SSD provides faster loading times and more storage for larger games. This simple upgrade can significantly improve performance, particularly for users with a growing library of games.

What is Decky Loader, and how does it enhance the Steam Deck’s customization?

Decky Loader is a software mod that allows users to access a variety of plugins for customizing their Steam Deck. It adds new functionalities and personalization options, making it a valuable tool for users looking to enhance their gaming experience.