Ever wished your Steam Deck felt more like a full-fledged computer, especially when you’re diving into those massive RPGs or typing out long messages? You’re not alone! The Steam Deck is amazing for gaming on the go, but sometimes, its on-screen keyboard just doesn’t cut it. It can be slow, clunky, and honestly, a little frustrating when you’re in the middle of an epic quest.
That’s where keyboards come in! But with so many different types and features, picking the perfect keyboard for your Steam Deck can feel like another boss battle. Do you need something small and portable? Or something with all the bells and whistles? We know it can be confusing trying to figure out what will work best for your gaming style and budget.
Don’t worry! This guide is here to make that decision a whole lot easier. We’ll break down the different kinds of keyboards that are great for the Steam Deck, highlight what makes each one special, and help you find the one that will truly upgrade your portable gaming experience. Get ready to say goodbye to awkward typing and hello to seamless control!
Our Top 5 Keyboards For Steam Deck Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Keyboards For Steam Deck Detailed Reviews
1. BoxWave Keyboard Compatible with Valve Steam Deck – SlimKeys Bluetooth Keyboard – with Backlight
Rating: 8.8/10
Level up your Steam Deck experience with the BoxWave SlimKeys Bluetooth Keyboard. This sleek, portable keyboard brings full typing power to your handheld gaming device. Its slim design makes it easy to carry, and the built-in backlight ensures you can game and type even in dim lighting.
What We Like:
- The LED backlight comes in seven colors, letting you choose your favorite. It makes typing easy in the dark.
- Bluetooth 3.0 connects your keyboard to your Steam Deck quickly and reliably. You get a smooth typing feel.
- A special power switch helps save battery life when you’re not using the keyboard. This is great for when you’re on the go.
- The keyboard is slim and light, so it doesn’t add much extra weight to your setup. You can take it anywhere.
- It offers helpful, limited tech support for your device.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product listing clearly states that the Valve Steam Deck device is NOT included. This is important to remember.
This keyboard is a fantastic addition for any Steam Deck owner who wants more comfortable typing. It adds great functionality without being bulky.
2. Invensic DeckTop – Steam Deck Keyboard and Bluetooth Trackpad Mouse with Multicolor LED Laptop Accessory for Valve Linux PC Gaming Accessories (Steam Deck/ROG Ally)
Rating: 8.5/10
The Invensic DeckTop is a cool accessory that makes your Steam Deck even better. It’s a keyboard with a trackpad, so you can play games and navigate menus easily. It’s designed to work perfectly with your Steam Deck and other handheld PCs like the ROG Ally. Plus, it looks awesome with its customizable RGB lights!
What We Like:
- The keys are super responsive, which really helps when you’re playing fast-paced games.
- You can change the LED lights to match your mood or your gaming setup.
- It fits snugly on your Steam Deck and works with many cases, including the Killswitch.
- It’s built tough to last, but it’s also light enough to take with you anywhere.
- Setting it up is a breeze, so you can start using it right away.
What Could Be Improved:
- While it’s great for Steam Deck and ROG Ally, it might not fit every single case out there perfectly.
- The drywall-anchored screws mentioned in the features seem a bit out of place for a portable accessory; a more direct explanation of how it attaches to the device itself would be clearer.
This DeckTop accessory truly enhances your handheld gaming. It’s a fantastic addition for anyone who wants more control and a personalized look for their gaming device.
3. Fosmon Mini Bluetooth Keyboard (QWERTY Keypad)
Rating: 9.0/10
Tired of juggling remotes or struggling with on-screen keyboards? The Fosmon Mini Bluetooth Keyboard with its built-in touchpad is here to simplify your digital life. This compact QWERTY keyboard lets you control a wide range of devices with ease, right from your palm. It’s designed for comfort and gives you the freedom to move around while staying connected.
What We Like:
- Super portable and fits right in your hand.
- The touchpad makes moving the cursor a breeze – no need for a separate mouse.
- Connects to tons of gadgets like Apple TV, Fire Stick, PS4/PS5, and even VR headsets!
- The long-lasting battery keeps you going for days.
- Backlit keys are awesome for late-night use in the dark.
- It comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty for peace of mind.
What Could Be Improved:
- It doesn’t work with Xbox consoles.
- Compatibility with all smart TVs isn’t guaranteed, so check your TV’s Bluetooth first.
This Fosmon keyboard is a versatile tool for anyone who loves their gadgets. It makes controlling your entertainment and devices much more convenient.
4. BoxWave Keyboard Compatible with Valve Steam Deck – SlimKeys Bluetooth Keyboard with Trackpad
Rating: 8.7/10
The BoxWave SlimKeys Bluetooth Keyboard with Trackpad is designed to turn your Valve Steam Deck into a more powerful and versatile device. It offers a full typing experience with a trackpad, making it easier to get things done on the go.
What We Like:
- It has both a keyboard and a trackpad. This makes it easy to type and control your device.
- The keyboard is very thin and light. You can easily carry it in your bag.
- It uses Bluetooth 3.0. This means it connects quickly and stays connected smoothly.
- The keys are responsive and feel good when you type. They are also big enough for comfortable typing.
- It has an on/off switch. This helps save battery power when you are not using it.
- It is very portable. You can set it up and take it down quickly.
What Could Be Improved:
- The product page clearly states that the Steam Deck device is not included. This might disappoint some buyers if they miss this note.
This keyboard is a great addition for anyone who wants to use their Steam Deck for more than just gaming. It makes typing and navigating much simpler, especially when you’re away from home.
5. JSAUX Upgraded Docking Station 4K@120Hz for Steam Deck OLED/ROG Ally X/Legion Go (S)/MSi Claw
Rating: 9.0/10
Level up your handheld gaming experience with the JSAUX Upgraded Docking Station. This 6-in-1 powerhouse transforms your portable gaming devices into a full-blown desktop setup, bringing your games to the big screen with stunning clarity and speed. It’s designed to work with a range of popular handhelds, making it a versatile addition to any gamer’s arsenal.
What We Like:
- Amazing Visuals: The HDMI 2.1 port supports 4K resolution at a super smooth 120Hz refresh rate. This means your games will look incredibly clear and move without any choppiness, especially on compatible monitors.
- Fast Charging Power: Keep your gaming sessions going without interruptions. The dock offers 100W PD charging, which is powerful enough to even keep your device running in its highest performance mode.
- Super Speedy Internet: The built-in Gigabit Ethernet port provides a stable and lightning-fast internet connection. Say goodbye to lag and hello to quick downloads and smooth online multiplayer.
- Loads of Connections: You get three USB 3.0 ports, which are great for connecting controllers, keyboards, mice, or external storage.
- Wider Device Support: This upgraded dock now works with even more devices, including the ROG Ally X and Legion Go S, in addition to the Steam Deck LCD/OLED and MSI Claw.
What Could Be Improved:
- Important Note on Compatibility: It’s crucial to remember that this dock is *not* compatible with the ROG XBOX Ally or XBOX Ally X. Double-check your device model before purchasing.
This JSAUX docking station offers a fantastic upgrade for handheld PC gamers, providing a seamless way to enjoy your favorite titles on a larger display with enhanced performance and connectivity. It’s a great investment for those looking to expand their gaming setup.
Choosing the Best Keyboard for Your Steam Deck Adventure
Your Steam Deck is a fantastic portable gaming device. But sometimes, you want a more comfortable or precise way to play. That’s where a keyboard comes in! Adding a keyboard can change how you interact with your games and even make your Steam Deck useful for other tasks.
Key Features to Look For
1. Size and Portability
Think about where you’ll use your keyboard. Do you want something tiny that fits in your pocket? Or is a full-size keyboard okay if you’re mostly gaming at a desk?
- Compact/Mini Keyboards: Great for travel and saving space. They often have fewer keys.
- TKL (Tenkeyless) Keyboards: These remove the number pad on the right. They are smaller than full-size but still offer most keys.
- Full-Size Keyboards: These have all the keys, including the number pad. They offer the most typing space but are less portable.
2. Connectivity
How does the keyboard connect to your Steam Deck? This is super important!
- Bluetooth: This is wireless and common. It’s convenient because you don’t need extra cables. Make sure the Bluetooth version is good for quick responses.
- USB Dongle (2.4GHz Wireless): This uses a small USB stick. It’s also wireless and often provides a very stable connection.
- Wired (USB-C): Some keyboards connect directly with a USB-C cable. This gives the fastest connection and doesn’t need batteries or charging.
3. Key Type (Switches)
This is what makes typing feel a certain way. It’s like the difference between a soft pillow and a firm one!
- Membrane Keyboards: These are usually quieter and softer to press. They are often found on cheaper keyboards.
- Mechanical Keyboards: These use individual switches under each key. They offer a more satisfying click and feel. There are different types of mechanical switches (like “clicky,” “tactile,” and “linear”) that feel and sound different.
4. Backlighting
Some keyboards have lights under the keys. This helps you see in the dark and can make your setup look cool!
- No Backlighting: Simple and saves battery.
- Single Color Backlighting: All keys light up with one color.
- RGB Backlighting: You can change the color of each key or have cool lighting effects.
Important Materials
The materials used affect how the keyboard feels, how long it lasts, and how much it costs.
- Plastic: Most keyboards use plastic. Higher quality plastic feels sturdier and lasts longer.
- Aluminum: Some premium keyboards have an aluminum top plate. This makes them very strong and gives them a premium feel.
- Keycap Material: The plastic the keycaps are made from matters. ABS is common and can get shiny over time. PBT is more durable and feels better.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Lots of things can make a keyboard great or not so great.
- Build Quality: A well-built keyboard feels solid. It doesn’t flex or creak when you use it.
- Key Rollover: This is how many keys the keyboard can register at the same time. For gaming, you want “N-key rollover” (NKRO) so all your button presses are counted.
- Battery Life (for wireless): A keyboard that lasts a long time on one charge is very convenient.
- Ergonomics: How comfortable is it to use for long periods? Some keyboards have special shapes or wrist rests.
- Noise: If you game with others or in a quiet place, a loud keyboard might be a problem.
User Experience and Use Cases
Using a keyboard with your Steam Deck opens up new possibilities.
- Gaming: Many PC games are designed for keyboard and mouse. Playing these on your Steam Deck becomes much easier and more enjoyable. You get faster aiming and better control.
- Productivity: You can use your Steam Deck like a small computer. Writing emails, browsing the web, or even doing light work is much faster with a keyboard.
- Emulation: Playing older games through emulators often requires keyboard input for menus and controls.
- Home Theater PC (HTPC): If you connect your Steam Deck to a TV, a keyboard makes it easy to control media players and navigate menus.
Choosing the right keyboard depends on what you want to do. Think about your gaming style, where you’ll play, and how much you want to spend. A good keyboard can really boost your Steam Deck experience!
Steam Deck Keyboard FAQs
Q: Can I use any keyboard with my Steam Deck?
A: Yes, most standard USB or Bluetooth keyboards will work with your Steam Deck when it’s in Desktop Mode. Some might have limited functionality in Game Mode.
Q: Do I need a special keyboard for the Steam Deck?
A: Not necessarily. A regular PC keyboard works well. However, compact or portable keyboards are popular because they are easier to carry around with the Steam Deck.
Q: How does a keyboard connect to the Steam Deck?
A: You can connect using Bluetooth, a USB dongle (like a 2.4GHz wireless receiver), or a wired USB-C connection.
Q: What’s the difference between membrane and mechanical keyboards?
A: Membrane keyboards have a rubber dome under each key that pushes down. Mechanical keyboards have individual switches that offer a more distinct feel and sound. Mechanical ones are often preferred for gaming.
Q: Is it hard to set up a wireless keyboard?
A: No, it’s usually very easy. You just need to turn on the keyboard’s Bluetooth or plug in the USB dongle, then pair it with your Steam Deck in the settings.
Q: Will a keyboard help me play games better on the Steam Deck?
A: Yes, for games designed for keyboard and mouse, you’ll have much better control and faster reactions. It makes playing PC-style games much more enjoyable.
Q: Can I use a keyboard and mouse together with the Steam Deck?
A: Yes, you can. You can connect both a keyboard and a mouse to your Steam Deck, often through a USB hub if you’re using wired devices.
Q: Are there keyboards made specifically for the Steam Deck?
A: While there aren’t many keyboards made *only* for the Steam Deck, many compact and wireless keyboards are perfect companions for it.
Q: Do I need to charge a wireless keyboard?
A: Yes, most wireless keyboards have a built-in rechargeable battery. You’ll need to plug them in to charge them, just like your phone.
Q: Can I use a keyboard with a wired controller setup?
A: Yes, you can use a wired keyboard and a wired controller together. You might need a USB hub to connect both if your Steam Deck doesn’t have enough ports.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
My name is Gary Flores, the creator of deepskyblue-owl-132507.hostingersite.com.. With a passion for creating cozy, functional, and beautiful spaces, I share my personal experiences and expertise about everything related to home improvement. From practical tips to design inspiration, my goal is to help you make your home the best it can be.