The Steam Deck features a plethora of controls, allowing for a wide range of customization of the device’s performance and gameplay.
It almost made it, but the mouse and keyboard didn’t make it, so you’ll have to bring those.
The good news is you can use a keyboard and mouse with no problem at all on the Steam Deck.
Using a Computer to Play Steam Deck
You can connect a wide range of devices to the Steam Deck using either Bluetooth or USB. It is necessary to utilize a USB-C dock or hub to connect a mouse and keyboard to the Steam Deck, as the tablet only has a single USB-C connector.
However, Bluetooth is already integrated into the system, so no further hardware is required to connect a Bluetooth wireless mouse and keyboard.
If you’re using Linux in desktop mode, pairing the Steam Deck is as simple as pairing any other Bluetooth device, but in game mode, you’ll need to use the device’s settings menu.
Methods for Hooking Up a Computer to a Steam Machine
It’s time to plug in your extra hardware now that you’re in Desktop Mode. The Steam Deck can function properly without these extras.
The inputs can be used as is to navigate Desktop Mode. Take our word for it, the Steam Deck can handle anything you throw at it.
However, a mouse and keyboard make quick work of Desktop Mode’s interface.
A mouse and keyboard can make even a brief work easier to handle, thus it’s recommended that you switch to Desktop Mode even if you don’t intend to stay there for a while.
In the toolbar, select the Bluetooth icon.
The desktop’s toolbar is located across the bottom of the screen. You’ll find a selection of icons on the far right side of the toolbar. The Bluetooth one will be separate. When you select that, a menu of available Bluetooth settings will appear. There won’t be any names in here if you’re using Bluetooth for the first time with your Steam Deck. You’ll have to think of something to supplement the existing Steam Deck.
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Start by selecting the “Add New Device” option.
There should be a “+” sign at the very top of the Bluetooth settings menu. A new gadget can be added by hovering over it and selecting the option that appears.
Pair your keyboard and mouse by entering the Pairing Mode
The Steam Deck will start looking for Bluetooth devices as soon as you click the Add New Device button. It’s time to start using your keyboard and mouse together. One at a time is what is required here. As a result, throughout this tutorial, we will refer to the mouse singularly.
Just click on a name from the drop-down menu.
Now that the list is complete, use the right touchpad to locate the mouse and click on it to choose it. The pairing procedure will begin after this, and you’ll need to confirm the link before proceeding. Once you verify it and wait a few seconds, you should be all set to go. Keyboard devices should be added in the same fashion many times.
When you’re done, Desktop Mode will function just like any other computer. If you’re using the Steam Deck without a level surface, this isn’t really a workable solution. To make the most of Desktop Mode when you need it, though, this is useful information to have on hand.
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Where Can I Find Instructions on Docking a Computer on the Steamship’s Deck?
How to Connect Keyboard and Mouse on Steam Deck is not anything users should worry about unless they don’t have access to a Steam Deck dock.
This list of features is essential for any USB hub you would consider purchasing:
- There is one Type-C USB port that can deliver power.
- A pair of USB 3.0 connectors
- Supports Ultra-High-Definition 4K at 30 fps on HDMI.
- WiFi adapter