Steam Deck Charger: Everything You Need to Know

The Steam Deck is a handheld gaming device that has been making waves since it was announced by Valve in 2021. With features like a high-resolution display, powerful hardware, and the ability to run PC games, it’s no wonder that gamers are excited about this device. However, one important aspect that gamers need to consider is the Steam Deck charger.

The Steam Deck charges over USB-C, so it’s essential to have a charger that can provide enough power to keep the device running while you’re gaming on the go. There are several options available, including the official Steam Deck charger, third-party chargers, and power banks. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best chargers for the Steam Deck and what you need to consider when choosing one.

What is a Steam Deck Charger?

I know that it’s a weird headline but deal with it. A Steam Deck charger is a device used to charge the Steam Deck, a handheld gaming console developed by Valve Corporation.

The Steam Deck charger is a USB-C power adapter that provides a power output of 45W. It is a standard USB-C charger that can be used with any USB-C cable. However, it is important to note that not all USB-C cables are created equal, and using a low-quality or incompatible cable can result in slower charging times or even damage to the device.

The Steam Deck charger can be used to charge the device while it is in use, allowing for uninterrupted gameplay. It is also possible to charge the Steam Deck using a third-party USB-C charger, as long as it meets the necessary power specifications.

It is recommended to use the official Steam Deck charger to ensure optimal charging performance and avoid potential damage to the device.

It is important to note that the Steam Deck charger is not compatible with other devices, and should only be used to charge the Steam Deck. Attempting to use the charger with other devices can result in damage to both the charger and the device being charged.

In summary, the Steam Deck charger is a USB-C power adapter that provides a power output of 45W, designed specifically for use with the Steam Deck. It is recommended to use the official Steam Deck charger to ensure optimal charging performance and avoid potential damage to the device.

Compatibility Check

The Steam Deck charger is compatible with a wide range of devices that feature a USB Type-C port. You can use any USB charger with the Steam Deck, including power banks, wall chargers, and car chargers. However, it’s important to note that not all chargers are created equal, and some may not provide enough power to charge the Steam Deck quickly.

According to Reddit users, even a 5V charger with 1A output will work with the Steam Deck, though it may take longer to charge the device fully. However, using a charger with a higher output will provide a faster charging experience. The Steam Deck charger itself is a 45W USB Type-C power adapter that supports USB Power Delivery 3.0.

It’s worth noting that not all USB Type-C cables are created equal either. Some cables may not be able to handle the high power output required to charge the Steam Deck.

To ensure that you’re using a cable that can handle the power output, it’s recommended to use the cable that comes with the Steam Deck or a high-quality USB Type-C cable.

If you’re using a third-party charger, it’s important to check the specifications to ensure that it supports USB Power Delivery 3.0 and has a high enough output to charge the Steam Deck quickly. Some popular third-party chargers that are compatible with the Steam Deck include the Anker PowerPort Atom III Slim, the Aukey Omnia 100W, and the Jsaux USB C Charger.

In summary, the Steam Deck charger is compatible with a wide range of USB Type-C chargers, but it’s important to ensure that the charger you’re using supports USB Power Delivery 3.0 and has a high enough output to charge the device quickly. Additionally, using a high-quality USB Type-C cable is recommended to ensure that the cable can handle the high power output required to charge the Steam Deck.

Steam Deck Charging Time

The Steam Deck takes around 2.5 to 3 hours to charge from low single digits (0-9%) using the provided PSU. However, if the device has been left on the charger for long periods of time, it may report less than 100% charge, which is normal.

It is recommended to confirm the LED is on after plugging in the charger and leaving it to charge for at least 15 minutes before powering it on. If the Steam Deck appears to be charging normally but the power button is unresponsive, try holding the Volume + button while powering it on, then selecting Continue to boot from the BIOS options.

It is important to note that the Steam Deck cannot charge with more than 45W, although in practice, it tends to not exceed 40W. Using a charger with a higher wattage may not speed up the charging time but could potentially harm the device’s battery life.

To extend the Steam Deck’s battery life, it is recommended to adjust the power settings and reduce the screen brightness when playing system-intensive games. Additionally, using a charger with a high-capacity power bank, such as Anker’s huge battery pack, can output the 45W needed to keep the Steam Deck, laptop, or tablet topped up for many hours of on-the-road use.

Overall, the Steam Deck’s charging time is reasonable and can be optimized by following the recommended charging practices and using a compatible charger.

Portability

One of the key features of the Steam Deck is its portability. This is why choosing the right charger is important to ensure that you can play your games on the go without worrying about running out of battery.

When it comes to portability, size and weight are important factors to consider. You want a charger that is small and lightweight enough to fit in your bag or pocket without adding too much extra weight.

Another factor to consider is the length of the cable. A longer cable can be useful if you need to charge your Steam Deck while using it, but it can also be cumbersome to carry around. On the other hand, a shorter cable may be more portable, but it may limit your ability to use your Steam Deck while charging.

Foldable chargers can be a great option for portability as they take up less space in your bag and are easier to carry around. Some chargers also come with a carrying case to protect them from damage while on the go.

Chargers and there prices

When it comes to purchasing a charger for your Steam Deck, price is a crucial factor to consider. Fortunately, there are several options available at different price points to suit your budget.

One of the most affordable options is the Minix 65W USB-C charger, which can power up your Steam Deck with 65W of power and is available for just $30-$35 on Amazon. Another budget-friendly option is the Steam Deck 45W USB-C Charger + Protective Case, which is available on Amazon. This charger is specially designed for the Steam Deck and comes with a protective case to keep your device safe from daily bumps, scratches, falls, and dust.

If you’re willing to spend a bit more for a high-quality charger, the JSAUX 45W USB-C power charger is a great option. This charger is fast and efficient and comes with a 5FT cable type-C wall adapter that is compatible with the Steam Deck, Switch, MacBook Pro/Air, iPad Pro/Air, Google Pixel, and Samsung Galaxy. The JSAUX charger is available for $29.99 on Amazon.

Another option is the USB C Charger for Steam Deck by ZMI, which is available for $39.99 on Amazon. This charger is foldable and comes with a 65W 45W fast PD foldable power adapter and a 6.6FT Type C charging cable. It is compatible with a variety of devices, including the Steam Deck, MacBook, iPad, iPhone, and more.

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the right charger for your Steam Deck is crucial to ensure that you can enjoy your gaming experience without worrying about running out of power. With the right charger, you can keep your Steam Deck fully charged and ready to go whenever you need it.

When selecting a charger, it’s important to consider factors such as voltage, amperage, and overcurrent protection. A charger that is not compliant with these factors can damage your Steam Deck’s battery, and in some cases, even cause a fire.

We recommend choosing a charger that is specifically designed for the Steam Deck, such as the Anker PowerCore 26800mAh Power Bank or the RAVPower 26800mAh Power Bank. These chargers offer fast charging times, high-quality cables, and multiple USB ports for charging multiple devices at the same time.

Leave a Comment