PC gaming handhelds are exploding in popularity thanks to their rare mix of performance and portability. These devices can handle everything from charming indie titles to AAA blockbusters — without the need for a bulky desktop setup. Sure, you may need to tweak graphics settings to maintain smooth framerates, but their deep customization options make them far more versatile than traditional handhelds from Nintendo or Sony.
Among these devices, Valve’s Steam Deck remains a fan favorite. However, even with its ergonomic design and portability, some find it too large for extended handheld play. For those willing to take risks with modding, one creative enthusiast found a way to make the Steam Deck even more travel‑friendly — by transforming it into something called the SteamPad.
Why Turn a Steam Deck into a SteamPad?
At first glance, it might seem unnecessary. The Steam Deck is already portable and comfortable to hold, with contoured grips and responsive controls. And if you prefer a handheld that acts as a simple display, there are off‑the‑shelf options like the Lenovo Legion Go, which, unlike a modded Steam Deck, comes with detachable controllers and plug‑and‑play convenience.
But according to the SteamPad’s creator, Reddit user u/Rare_Risk_6717, this project came from a practical need: traveling lighter. The creator had been using an iPad as an external display for the Steam Deck and found the setup worked well — but lugging both gadgets, along with a controller and cables, became tiring. Discovering a “Steam Brick” mod (which converts the Deck into a display‑less console) inspired the next step: converting the device into a compact, display‑free unit that connects directly to an iPad.
An additional perk? By routing the Steam Deck’s output through an iPad, the creator could now connect AirPods directly to the iPad with minimal audio delay, providing a cleaner wireless experience on the go.
If you don’t mind the Steam Deck’s size or already own the Steam Deck OLED — known for its exceptional, sub‑1‑millisecond response time — modding it into a SteamPad may not make sense. But for frequent travelers looking to shed a few gadgets from their tech bag, it’s a surprisingly clever solution.
How to Build a SteamPad
While the original Reddit post doesn’t include a detailed tutorial, the basic setup is straightforward enough to follow — provided you’re comfortable tinkering and understand the risks involved.
You’ll need:
- A Steam Deck (preferably a used or parts‑only unit you can afford to potentially brick).
- An iPad, which will serve as your display.
- A UGREEN capture card cable — the same model used by the creator — to send video output from the Steam Deck to
the iPad. - A pair of AirPods for wireless audio, though any modern model will work.
- A 3D‑printed SteamPad case, designed collaboratively by Reddit users u/darkmaou and u/Rare_Risk_6717. The design
files are available on Maker World.
That’s all you’ll need to start — though some technical experience is strongly recommended. The mod won’t be for everyone, but it’s an excellent example of how far PC gaming enthusiasts are willing to go for convenience and customization.
If you’re interested in the mod or have questions about replicating it, the best step is to contact the creator directly through their original Reddit thread.
