The best Steam Deck dock 2024: Park your portable PC

Saying the best Steam Deck dock is an essential accessory might sound like an exaggeration, but it's the key to turning Valve's handheld into a hybrid device. Sure, docking stations have been around since the glory days of chonky IBM laptops, but modern solutions can provide add all the ports your full size rig has and hook up to an external model using a single cable. And, if the ones we've tested are anything to go by, there are plenty of models that go above and beyond in terms of functionality.

Before you get carried away, it’s worth noting that the Steam Deck dock won’t help the best gaming handheld contender boost performance. However, it will furnish both the LCD model and new Steam Deck OLED with USB ports, HDMI output, and a way to keep things charged while everything is hooked up. Simply put, using a docking station will help you both consolise Valve's device and transform it into a cheap desktop gaming PC, enabling  shake up how you play on the fly. Better still, most options out there are also compatible with alternative handhelds like the Asus ROG Ally and Ayaneo 2S, so you won't need to hunt for different accessories.

To help you get the most out of your portable pal, we’ve tested the best Steam Deck docks on the market and made a list of our favorites. Whether you're looking for an alternative to the Switch, a cheap PC alternative, or just a way to hook up a keyboard and mouse for convenience, we've got a variety of options that'll help you get more out of your handheld. 

The Quick List

The best Steam Deck dock overall

The best Steam Deck dock

Specifications

Video output: 1 x HDMI 2.0
Ports: 3 x USB A, 1 x USB-C
Ethernet: 1000MBps
Power Delivery : 100W

Reasons to buy

+
Solid build quality
+
Adjustable cradle
+
Great design

Reasons to avoid

-
Front ports would be a nice extra

The Steam Deck dock scene is abundant with options, but the Baseus 6-in-1 docking station stands tall among its rivals. Featuring an adjustable cradle, fantastic build quality, and a great selection of ports, this dock delivers on multiple fronts, and it's compatible with more than just Valve's portable powerhouse.

Buy it if:

✅ Your Steam Deck has a case: Unlike many other docking stations, Baseus' adjustable cradle can hold handhelds with a case or shell attached,

✅ You care about build quality: The Baseus Steam Deck dock is solid, and its blend of metal and plastics feel pretty premium.

✅ You use your Steam Deck at a desk: Small choices like keeping Ethernet round the back and the dock's ability to fold down when not in use mean it'll fit in nicely with most desk setups. 

Don't buy it if:

❌ You need DisplayPort: This dock only comes armed with HDMI, and if you'd rather not use an adapter, you're better off looking something that better suits your display.

❌ You want something cheaper: The Baseus Steam Deck dock isn't the cheapest option out there, and there are alternatives that are normally available for less.

Features: Armed with three USB 3.0 ports, HDMI output, Ethernet, and 100W Power delivery via USB-C, the Baseus Steam Deck dock almost covers everything you'd need for desktop use. It is missing an additional DisplayPort, but that omission is forgivable given that most options out there stick with just HDMI. 

Design: When we say the Baseus dock is compatible with other handhelds, we don't just mean you can jam the Asus ROG Ally onto it and hope for the best. That adjustable cradle we mentioned above moves to suit even the chonkiest handheld gaming PCs out there, whether you're using the Steam Deck or a premium Ayaneo portable. It also doubles as a way to flatten the dock while not in use, which helps it look the part on your desk and makes it more streamlined for sticking in a backpack.

The Baseus dock also has sensible port placement on its side, as it avoids sticking the Ethernet port on the side like other docking stations out there. Instead, it places one of its three USB A ports to the left instead, making it easier to connect things like a PC controller or storage drive. 

Performance: We put the Baseus Steam Deck dock to the test using a 4K gaming monitor, mouse, keyboard, and PC controller, and it provided seamless connectivity across the board. Connecting the Steam Deck's own power adapter supplied everything with enough juice while still charging the handheld PC, which is important given we're looking for hybrid functionality. We also didn't notice any glitches or issues with the dock's HDMI out, as it provided us with a 4K 60Hz when playing classic games like Fable: The Lost Chapters.

Verdict: Ultimately, clever design choices help the Baseus Steam Deck dock stand out in a busy market, and while it's not the absolute cheapest option on the market, it's well worth the money. If your monitor hasn't got HDMI, you might have to opt for an adapter if this docking station takes your fancy, but the accessory is pretty accommodating otherwise.

Read more: Baseus 6-in-1 docking station review

The best cheap Steam Deck dock

The best cheap Steam Deck dock

Specifications

Video output: 1x HDMI; 1x USB-C
Ports: 3x USB 3.0
Power delivery: 65W

Reasons to buy

+
Mimics the convenience of the Nintendo Switch dock
+
Discrete when in use
+
Great connectivity

Reasons to avoid

-
Slightly lacklustre build quality

The iVoler 5-in-1 Steam Deck Dock has both price and specs on its side, as it packs quite a lot of functionality into a cheap package. If you're not willing to wait for around for discounts and looking to spend under $25, this is probably the docking station you're looking for.

Buy it if:

✅ You need a budget dock: If you're looking to pay as little as possible, iVoler's Steam Deck dock will cost a chunk less and provide everything you need.

✅ You need something basic: For under $25, you'll get an accessory that ticks all the boxes and won't cost a lot to replace if gets damaged.

✅ You want something discrete: This docking station almost fades into the background thanks to its subtle black aesthetic, making it perfect blending in with your living room or desktop setup.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You care about build quality: The iVoler Steam Deck dock feels cheaper than its rivals, and it might not stand the test of time if being slung into a backpack or moved around the house.

❌ You want to play the classics: Output is capped at 4K 30fps, and that could matter if you're planning on running classic games using a UHD gaming monitor.

Features: It might cost less than its fancier rivals, but the iVoler Steam Deck dock is packing just as many ports. It's got three USB 3.0 ports, HDMI, and Ethernet, but Power Delivery is capped at 65W. That's not going to be an issue if you're only connecting a few peripherals, but heavy desktop use could put those constraints to the test.

Design: Admittedly, the iVoler Steam Deck dock isn't the prettiest accessory around, and the bold logo at the front cramps its style. Yet, it still manages to be pretty discrete, with its black colorway helping it blend into the background rather than serving as a statement piece. As for build quality, it feels like a cheap Steam Deck dock, which perhaps doesn't matter much considering it'll simply sit on your desk or TV unit, but it's notably light feeling compared to alternatives.

Performance: Unlike other Steam Deck docks, the iVoler model we tested was capped at 4K 30fps. That's not a complete deal breaker given than Valve's portable is designed with 800p gameplay in mind, but it does mean you'll have to sacrifice frame rate when playing the classics. Nevertheless, we played Potion Permit, Powerwash Simulator, Disney Dreamlight Valley, and Cult of the Lamb using this dock, and it performed admirably throughout.

Verdict: If you're looking to pay as little as possible for a Steam Deck dock, iVoler's docking station won't disappoint. So long as you're not looking to run older games at 4K 60fps, or have an aversion to cheap feeling accessories, this add-on will deliver all the basics for far less than Valve's official accessory.

Read more: iVoler 5-in-1 Steam Deck Dock review

The best premium Steam Deck dock

The best premium Steam Deck Dock

Specifications

Video output: 1 x HDMI 2.1; 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 1 x USB-C
Ports: 3 x USB 3.1
Power delivery: 100W

Reasons to buy

+
Easy to use
+
Top connectivity
+
Compact design

Reasons to avoid

-
Some games still require diving into the settings menus
-
A few features missing

It's pretty expensive, but the official Valve Steam Deck dock pairs with the portable powerhouse perfectly. It boasts slightly higher specs than most other docking stations out there, includes a charger, and receives firmware updates from the handheld while plugged in. However, the fact it fit the Steam Deck like a glove hampers compatibility with other handhelds.

Buy it if:

✅ You want something premium: Boasting exceptional build quality and tailored design, Valve's first party accessory is the cream of the Steam Deck dock crop.

✅ You need an extra charger: It costs way more than other docks, but it actually comes with its own power supply, so you won't have to disconnect everything when travelling. 

✅ You're looking for the best specs: Valve's dock is armed with USB 3.1 ports, and it's even got DisplayPort for good measure.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: The official Valve accessory costs way more than third-party alternatives, and you could spend less and achieve a similar experience.

❌ You've got another handheld PC: Valve's cradle is made to fit the Steam Deck specifically, so it won't play nicely with rivals like the Asus ROG Ally.

Features: Paying $89 for a Steam Deck dock might feel ludicrous given the price of third-party options. Yet, the official accessory provides an extra power adapter, a cradle that contours perfect to Valve's portable, and better specs. Specifically, the dock features three USB 3.1 ports (slightly faster than the ones included in every other dock), HDMI out, Ethernet, and a DisplayPort. The dock will also receive firmware updates from the Steam Deck while connected, meaning you'll be able to easily resolve any out of the box quirks and gain additional features down the line.

Design: Made from the same high quality plastic as the Steam Deck, Valve's official docking station has quality on its side. It's clear that the accessory and handheld share the same DNA, and it feels like a natural extension of the portable rather than just a compatible add-on. If you're the kind of player than couldn't stand those Mad Catz third party controllers back in the day, you'll appreciate this admittedly pricey docking station for what it is. 

The fact Valve's dock is tailor made for Steam Deck is both a blessing and a curse, as while it achieves first-party perfection, it won't accommodate other handhelds like the Asus ROG Ally. That gripe might sound a little silly given the name of the product, but it could matter if you decide to switch out your device with something beefier. Not to mention if a Steam Deck 2 comes along, you may end up needing to pick up another dock.
 
Performance: Most docking stations provide the same performance, but the Valve Steam Deck dock has a first party edge. That's largely thanks to its firmware catering directly to SteamOS, which will automatically adjust settings respond better to resolution changes. We played Wolfenstein 2: The New Colossus or Uncharted: Legacy of Thieves Collection using the dock and both games ran seamlessly, with the dock providing seamless output to a big screen (albeit with actual PC performance being limited to the Steam Deck itself).

Verdict: Cost aside, the Valve Steam Deck dock pairs perfectly with the handheld, and so it should. If you're needing an additional charger anyway, and would rather embrace build quality and specific functionality over compatibility with other handhelds, it's worth the investment. 

Read more: Valve Steam Deck Docking Station review

The best discrete Steam Deck dock

The best discrete Steam Deck Dock

Specifications

Video output : 1x HDMI; 1x USB-C
Ports: 3x USB 3.0, Gigabit Ethernet
Power delivery: 45W

Reasons to buy

+
 Curved design offers easy port access
+
 Barely noticeable when docked
+
 Great connectivity

Reasons to avoid

-
No DisplayPort

The Syntech Steam Deck Docking Station caters to living room players with its discrete design and port placement, and it's pretty affordable too compared to the real deal. Its smaller stature doesn't compromise specs, but it does admittedly feel a bit cheap compared to other dock's we've tested.

Buy it if:

✅ You want something discrete: This mini dock is barely notable when connected to a Steam Deck, which should appeal to anyone aiming for a clean looking setup.

✅ You're looking for a living room dock: The dock's port placement means you'll be able to easily connect controllers and other devices without much hassle.

✅ You want something cheap: It costs a bit more than the cheapest we've tested, but its still costs substantially less than the official dock.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want something solid: Build quality isn't one of the Syntech dock's strengths, and it's noticeably lighter compared to more expensive docking stations. 

❌ You've got a DisplayPort monitor: This is another example of a docking station that lacks DisplayPort, which could be a deal breaker if you've not got an adapter.

Features: All the usual ports are included with the Syntech Steam Deck dock, including HDMI, Ethernet, three USB 3.0 ports, and 100W Power Delivery. However, this accessory is notably smaller than other dinky docks out there, and manages to include more ports to boot.

Design: Syntech's round approach to docking station design may feel a bit weird at first, but it actually adds a lot of situational functionality. For example, if you're using the Steam Deck as a desktop hybrid, you'll be able to easily connect a wired gaming mouse to one of the side ports without moving the dock. It's a small thing, but when you consider the fact most docks are designed with skirting cables round the back away from surfaces, it's easy to see why this design might appeal to couch dwellers. 

Performance: We tested the Syntech dock with a nice variety of Steam games, including God of War, Have a Nice Death, and Roots of Pacha. The docking station happily provided 4K 60fps output both in game and while using SteamOS, and no weird connectivity glitches or issues occurred while it was in use. That's really all you need when it comes to using the Deck as a hybrid PC, but time will tell whether its cheaper build quality will stand the test of time.
Verdict: If you're looking for a docking station that'll provide living room functionality while being discrete, the Syntech Steam Deck dock is waiting to serve. It suffers from the same build quality issues as iVoler's accessory, but if you're not fussed about using plasticy accessories, you'll get alone with this add on just fine. 

Read more: Syntech 6-in-1 Steam Deck docking station review

The best Steam Deck dock for travel

The best Steam Deck dock for travel

Specifications

Video output: HDMI
Ports: 1x USB 3.0; 1x USB-C (PD); Ethernet
Power delivery: 65W

Reasons to buy

+
Extremely compact
+
Doubles as a dock and charger
+
Fast charging

Reasons to avoid

-
Only one USB port
-
No ethernet
-
No UK version

Most Steam Deck docks will fit in your backpack with ease, but the Acefast GaN Smart PD Charger Hub is a docking station and power adapter in one. That means you won't have to bring the Deck's original power brick with your on your travels, and it's compact enough to slip into your pocket.

Buy it if:

✅ You travel with your Steam Deck: This Acefast hub takes up less room than a smartphone charger, all while functioning just like a fully fledged Steam Deck dock.

✅ You don't want a dock on your desk: If you're not into the idea of having a docking station on top of your desk or TV bench, this hub could provide out of sight functionality. 

✅ You want a fast charger: This accessory will happy supply your phone with fast charging, meaning it could replace your usual smartphone wall wart.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You need more power: If you're planning on connecting more than one or two peripherals, the hub's 65W Power Delivery could be an issue.

❌ You want somewhere to sit your Deck: Naturally, this sub doesn't come with a cradle built in, so you won't be able to part your Steam Deck on it while connected to a big screen.

Features: Naturally, missing out features like Ethernet and additional USB ports helps keep the Acefast's charger hub compact, but it still packs a punch. Not only will it supply your Steam Deck and connected peripherals with 65W power, but the fact it's a GaN (gallium nitrate) charger means it boasts fast charging without being bulky.  Sure, you won't be able to hook up multiple peripherals (unless you use an additional USB hub), but if you're travelling around and staying in hotels, all you really need is HDMI out.

Design: The Acefast GaN Smart PD Charger Hub looks just like a standard smartphone charger, and it'll fit in your pocket without adding much bulk. Its prongs flip inwards when not in use, meaning there's no risk or it damaging other devices when in your backpack. That said, there's no UK version of this accessory yet, and complying with the country's power standards could add extra bulk to that version. 

Performance: Despite its extremely compact size, the Acefast GaN Smart PD Charger Hub functions exactly like an ordinary Steam Deck dock. Connectivity was seamless and instant during testing, and it helped us get a few hours in with Indie games like Tunic and Dredge. We even managed to plug in more than one peripheral using a hub and experienced no issues in relation to Power Delivery, but keep in mind it provides 65W compared to the usual 100W we've come to expect.

Verdict: If you're looking for a plug and play Steam Deck dock that you can easily use in a hotel or at a friends house, the Acefast GaN Smart PD Charger Hub checks almost every box. Sadly, since there's no UK version of this device, we can only currently recommend it to US handheld players. Nevertheless, it's still a must have accessory for on the go play, and its the perfect travel companion for Valve's Steam Deck.

Read more: Acefast GaN Smart PD Charger Hub review

The best Steam Deck dock for desktop

The best Steam Deck dock for desktop

Specifications

Video output: 1x HDMI 2.0
Ports: 3x USB-A; 3x USB-C, Ethernet
Power delivery: 100W

Reasons to buy

+
Decently Priced
+
100W power delivery
+
Ethernet

Reasons to avoid

-
No DisplayPort
-
Red variant is garish

The JSAUX USB-C 6-in-1 Steam Deck dock provides decent functionality for desktop users, and it serves as a cheaper alternative to the real deal. It's not perfect, and there are some design choices that hamper its versatility, but it's one of the first docking station's we'd recommend if your looking for affordable functionality.

Buy it if:

✅ You want a desktop dock: JSUAX's dock is designed with desktop use in mind, and it'll provide you with everything required to make a hybrid handheld PC setup.

✅ You want something affordable: The 6-in-1 dock is pretty affordable considering its specs and build quality, with discounts bringing it to the same level as the cheapest options.

✅ You like metal accessories: It might sound silly, but if you're into aluminium, you'll love the way this dock looks and feels.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You care about cable management: JSUAX places Ethernet on the side of most its docking stations, and it can make managing cables a pain.

❌ You want a living room dock: All this dock's USB ports are round the back, meaning you'll have to move it when connecting things like wired controllers.

Features: Kitted out with HDMI, three USB 3.0 ports, and 100W Power Delivery, the JSAUX Steam Deck dock checks all the usual boxes in terms of specs. There's also an Ethernet port that'll save you from resorting to the Deck's built in Wi-Fi, and the cradle borrows queues from Valve's official docking station. A bit of a no thrills option that sticks to core functionality, but the same could be said for 99% of third party options out there.

Design: The JSAUX USB-C 6-in-1 model we reviewed just so happens to be red, which is a little bit garish. That said, there's a gun metal grey version that's more likely to blend in with your setup, so keep that in mind when shopping around. Underneath the Iron Man-esque paint job is an aluminium body that feels pretty sturdy, providing a premium feel that's harder to achieve with plastic. 

Most of this docks ports are situated on the side, but its Ethernet port is annoying located on the side. Ideally, we'd prefer permanent connections to live on the back for the sake of cable management, as placing a USB port on the side instead would provide quick connectivity for things like wired controllers.

Performance: JSAUX was one of the first accessory makers to jump on the Steam Deck dock bandwagon, and its 6-in-1 dock provides a refined experience. There are no glitches, bugs, or power issues to be found when using the docking station with a TV or monitor, but that admittedly applies to every other docking station on this list.

Verdict: Again, it has its flaws, but the JSAUX USB-C 6-in-1 is our go to Steam Deck affordable Steam Deck dock for desktop use. If you've got the funds to spend, we'd perhaps point you towards the Baseus docking station instead, but both help Valve's portable become a hybrid gaming PC for your desk.

Read more: JSAUX USB-C 6-in-1 review

The best Steam Deck dongle

Wavlink USB C Docking Station

(Image credit: Wavlink)
The best Steam Deck dongle

Specifications

Video output: 2x HDMI; DisplayPort
Ports: 1x USB 2.0; 2x USB 3.0; SD; MicroSD; 3.5mm jack
Power delivery: 87W

Reasons to buy

+
DisplayPort and HDMI support 
+
87W power delivery 
+
All contemporary ports included

Reasons to avoid

-
HDMI is limited to 4K30

The biggest advantage of the Wavlink 13 in 1 Multiport USB C docking station over some others in our roundup is the inclusion of DisplayPort as well as HDMI. The former means that you can output at a maximum of 4K60, but also means that you will have far greater compatibility with monitors featuring a sharper picture quality. DisplayPort may play better with some gaming monitors in general as even an older form of the input can provide noticeable improvements over the likes of HDMI connections thanks to a far higher data bit rate. 

This model also features 4x USB 3.0 ports for high-speed connections of your peripherals and any data drives that you may have to hand. Priced at $64.99 / £59.99, the Wavlink 13 in 1 Multiport is one of the more affordable options on the market and offers everything that you could need out of a Steam Deck dock ahead of the official release date. 

Steam Deck Dock

(Image credit: Valve)

Best steam deck dock: FAQ

Which docks work with the Steam Deck?

Any Steam Deck dock you consider ahead of the official model's release later this year is going to need its own power (45W minimum through USB Type C), and enough ports to be able to use comfortably. Opting for a smaller hub instead of a dock may work for casting the video signal, but you may not benefit from stable performance over time. That's why in our chosen units, we've ensured that there's a suitable amount of power provided to the Steam Deck for maximum compatibility. 

Does the Steam Deck OLED work with existing docking station

The Steam Deck OLED effectively uses the same USB-C output as the original LCD version, so you'll be able to use existing docking station. While there's no guarantee that a next generation Steam Deck will also work with current docks, the standard is used across the board by laptops and PCs.

Should you use a 3rd party dock for Steam Deck?

You can absolutely use a third-party option with Steam Deck, but not every docking station will feel like it's made with the handheld in mind. If you're fussy about materials, fit, and aesthetics, you may want to spend the extra cash on Valve's official docking station. Otherwise, there are plenty of great alternatives out there, and some of them can perform tricks the real deal can't.

What to look for in the best Steam Deck dock

The best Steam Deck dock should provide your handheld with video output, USB ports, and somewhere for your handheld to sit. Most options out there can provide the basics, but others go above and beyond to turn Valve's portable powerhouse into a hybrid PC. From add-ons with build in SSD storage to cradles with a build in cooler, third party solutions pack additional tricks that could fundamentally enhance your experience. Of course, if you're looking for something that fits the Deck like a glove, you'll want to consider picking up Valve's official docking station instead. 

Which ports does the Steam Deck have?

The Steam Deck features a UBS C port for charging / power, as well as a 3.5mm jack, and a microSD card slot. Due to that USB C port, though, you have many options for expansion, as the above Steam Deck docks can demonstrate. 

Can I use a Steam Deck dock with Asus ROG Ally?

Most Steam Deck docks out there will work with the Asus ROG Ally, but there are a few things to consider before picking up any old docking station. For example, the ROG Ally is sightly thicker than the Steam Deck, meaning it might not fit on some cradles out there. You'll also want to pay close attention to each dock's Power Delivery capabilities, as Asus' handheld requires more juice.

How we test Steam Deck docks at GamesRadar+

Why you can trust GamesRadar+ Our experts review games, movies and tech over countless hours, so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about our reviews policy.

We spend hours testing the best Steam Deck docks to ensure they provide Valve's gaming handheld with proper hybrid functionality. Our expert team of staff and freelancers test each accessory to ensure great performance and functionality, whether you're using the portable PC with a monitor, gaming TV, or peripherals like a mouse and keyboard.

Of course, some Steam Deck docks provide a specific use case. For example, there are docking stations that cater to desktop users, while others are more suitable for travel. We take this into account when testing every Steam Deck dock option, and it's something that'll help you find the right accessory for your needs.

For more information on how we approach testing and reviews, check out our  full Hardware Policy.


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Phil Hayton
Hardware Editor

I’ve been messing around with PCs, video game consoles, and tech since before I could speak. Don’t get me wrong, I kickstarted my relationship with technology by jamming a Hot Wheels double-decker bus into my parent’s VCR, but we all have to start somewhere. I even somehow managed to become a walking, talking buyer’s guide at my teenage supermarket job, which helped me accept my career fate. So, rather than try to realise my musician dreams, or see out my University degree, I started running my own retro pop culture site and writing about video games and tech for the likes of TechRadar, The Daily Star, and the BBC before eventually ending up with a job covering graphics card shenanigans at PCGamesN. Now, I’m your friendly neighbourhood Hardware Editor at GamesRadar, and it’s my job to make sure you can kick butt in all your favourite games using the best gaming hardware, whether you’re a sucker for handhelds like the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch or a hardcore gaming PC enthusiast.

With contributions from