What Docks Work With Steam Deck?

Valve's recently-announced Nintendo Switch-like portable PC, the Steam Deck, can be connected to a dock just like the Switch. Unlike the Switch, the Steam Deck can be used with any powered USB-C hub on the market today.

What Does a Steam Deck Dock Do?

A dock connected to Steam Deck enables users to connect peripherals like mice and keyboards, connect Deck to ethernet, or connect Deck to an external monitor or television, among many other things. An external display with a Windows installation on Steam Deck turns it into a regular computer.

While Valve promises an official dock for the Steam Deck will come at a later date, the Valve Dock, like with any other docks or powered USB-C hubs you might use with the Steam Deck, won't make the Deck any more powerful when connected.

Though a device like Switch does offer better performance when docked, the Steam Deck's performance will remain consistent whether it's docked or running portably. However, in terms of other portable gaming devices like the Switch, even running portably the Steam Deck is significantly more powerful than a docked Switch.

What's the Best Dock for Steam Deck?

Any powered USB-C hub will work with Steam Deck, sure, but there are a few characteristics you'll want to make sure the hub you use you choose to use comes with:

1. An ethernet port that supports speeds at least as fast as your internet package delivers
2. At least a couple USB ports for peripherals, though Deck does support Bluetooth
3. Video outputs that are compatible with your chosen display(s)
4. Support for the resolution and framerate you intend to use your displays at

Naturally, you'll also want to make sure your dock of choice comes with decent reviews, as untested docks from unknown manufacturers can sometimes have issues with overheating or improper power delivery that can damage connected devices.

Depending on what dock you're considering, some will even come with useful features like kickstands or come in a compact design built to save space among many other things, so make sure you do a little research before pulling the trigger.

Premium docks with tons of USB ports and support for a bunch of additional displays can cost $250 or more, while docks with fewer options that would suffice for connecting Deck to an external display and hooking up a mouse and keyboard can go for as little as $50.

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