My hands hurt when I use a controller for too long. First it hurts, then my hands tingle like they’ve fallen asleep. My phone, a lightweight controller, and the Nintendo Switch all make me feel the same way, so I figured the Steam deck was totally off-limits. I didn’t even have to hold one to know that its size and weight was going to be a big problem.
The Switch at least has a kickstand, which eliminates the console’s weight issue for those with hand issues. But not the Steam Deck. I was struggling to play it comfortably until recently, when I found the one essential accessory that all Steam deck owners need: this cover buddy stand. It is part of a robust, modular system that allows for multiple expansion and mounting options.
The stand itself is robust and is attached to the Steam Deck with the so-called Deckmate Grip. This plastic claw snaps into the air vents (without blocking them!) and the bottom of the handheld console. It won’t move.
The Deckmate Kickstand is super simple, but absolutely necessary given the size of the Steam deck. When playing from the couch, I can rest the Steam Deck on a side table for breaks during cutscenes, but it’s also much more convenient to have it on a table during active gameplay. You can also place the Steam Deck on a table and use a separate controller. The only downside is that the Steam Deck doesn’t fit in its carrying case with the stand attached. (It still fits with the plastic claw and nothing else.)
Deckmate is a modular system and there are other accessories you can slip into the handle: a universal adapter useful for attaching a battery, a wall mount and a VESA mount.
That whole system costs $49, but there are other packages that pack specific accessories together with the grip you need. The kickstand bundle costs $35, and the others range from $30 to $40. If you have a 3D printer, you can simply download the files and print out the accessories yourself. This is free but there are options to pay what you can.
