I have a deep affection for my Steam Deck, and after a brief fling with Asus’ ROG Ally, I’ve returned to using my Steam Deck as my primary handheld device. One major reason for this is because I have modified it extensively to suit my preferences. Now, my Steam Deck isn’t just a device for playing PC games; it’s a personalized device with the features and performance I desire. In this article, I’ll walk you through the modifications I made so that you can consider exploring Steam Deck modding for yourself.
Let’s start with hardware modifications. When it comes to hardware mods for the Steam Deck, the possibilities are endless. With the exception of physically replacing the chipset, there are first- and third-party components available for swapping out nearly every part of the device. However, it’s important to assess your comfort level before diving into hardware mods. While the Steam Deck is relatively accessible for repairs and modifications, it is still a compact handheld with delicate ribbon cables and numerous tiny screws. I recommend setting boundaries for yourself and determining what modifications you feel comfortable undertaking before purchasing the necessary parts. Personally, I draw the line at replacing the screen. Although there are replacement screens available, such as the DeckHD 1,200p screen, the process involves removing the display, which I find too intricate for my liking. Screens are extremely fragile, so if you’re unfamiliar with this type of mod, it’s best to avoid it. If you decide to proceed with hardware mods, I recommend consulting guides provided by iFixIt for detailed instructions.
Now, let’s discuss the modifications I made to my Steam Deck. The easiest place to start is upgrading the SSD. Even the 512GB Steam Deck SSD is insufficient for the large install sizes of modern games, so I swapped it out for a 2TB WD Black SN770M. This is a relatively straightforward modification and can be done even if you have a cheaper 64GB model. To begin, remove the eight screws on the back of the Steam Deck and use a plastic pry tool to detach the backplate. Ensure that you also remove the micro SD card if one is installed. Once the backplate is off, remove three additional screws connected to the shield on the left of the fan and disconnect the battery using the convenient pull tab provided by Valve. Underneath, you’ll find the 2230 M.2 SSD. Unscrew and remove it, transfer the thermal covering to your new SSD, and install the new SSD. While these instructions provide a general overview, I recommend following iFixIt’s comprehensive guide for a more detailed breakdown. This is one of the simplest hardware mods you can make, and I highly recommend it.
As a tip, I suggest using a case to secure the Steam Deck while working on it to avoid putting pressure on the joysticks, which could potentially damage them. Additionally, make sure to back up your game saves or sync them with Steam Cloud, as you’ll need to completely reformat SteamOS when installing the new SSD.
While you have the backplate off, you can make a few other quick mods. I chose to replace the stock joysticks with GuliKit’s Hall Effect joysticks. The stock joysticks are excellent, but the Hall Effect joysticks offer a smoother experience and prevent stick drift. They are also relatively inexpensive, costing around $30. To install the new joysticks, remove the three screws and ribbon cable from each stock joystick, and replace them with the new ones, ensuring they are properly fitted. Calibration can be a bit tricky, but adjusting the tightness of the screws and using the built-in calibration feature should help. If needed, you can utilize Konsole on the desktop, which has a calibration command built-in.
Lastly, I replaced the back cover of my Steam Deck for both aesthetic reasons and improved airflow. I opted for the JSAUX PC0106 Vents Version in Purple, as it not only gives my Steam Deck a unique look but also features cutouts above the intake fan to facilitate easier airflow and reduce noise. Replacing the backplate involves using the new one instead of the original during reassembly. JSAUX includes three sets of back buttons of varying heights, which you should use in place of the originals. Select the desired height, install the backplate, and remember to remove the covering over the thermal pad on the back before proceeding.
Moving on to software modifications, the Steam Deck offers ample opportunities to modify the software as well. While it is possible to install Windows 11 on the Steam Deck, I find the applications specifically built for the handheld to be more intriguing. One of the first modifications I made was installing EmuDeck, an all-in-one emulation tool designed specifically for the Steam Deck. EmuDeck simplifies the installation and configuration of various emulators, and it integrates emulated games into the Steam environment, allowing you to launch them just like any game in your library. I recommend following the guide from Retro Game Corps for setting up EmuDeck.
Another essential software modification is Decky Loader. This tool doesn’t have any standalone functions but serves as a central hub for various modifications, tools, and emulators for the Steam Deck. It enhances the overall gaming experience and provides a user-friendly interface for managing mods, themes, and more.
In conclusion, modding the Steam Deck has allowed me to customize the device to my liking. From upgrading the SSD to swapping the joysticks and changing the backplate, I’ve transformed my Steam Deck into a personalized handheld gaming device. Additionally, the software modifications have expanded the capabilities of the Steam Deck, allowing me to run emulators and enjoy a wide range of games. If you’re comfortable with such modifications, I highly encourage you to explore Steam Deck modding for yourself and unleash the full potential of this fantastic handheld device.
