The Best Steam Deck Chargers for an Extra Power Boost
The original Steam Deck is notorious for its poor battery life; the Steam Deck OLED offers marginal improvements, but still falls short of all-day usage. A reliable USB-C charger is essential to prevent power interruptions during gameplay. Our top pick is the compact and fast Anker 715 Charger. Whether you need a portable power bank, a budget-friendly option for the car or office, or a multi-port wall charger, we've got recommendations to suit your needs.
TL;DR – Best Steam Deck Chargers
Best Overall: Anker 715 Charger
Best Budget: JSAUX 45W USB-C Power Delivery Charger
Best Hybrid: Anker 733 Power Bank
Best Power Bank: Anker 737 Power Bank
Best USB Hub: Ugreen Nexode 200W 6-Port GaN Charger
A crucial Steam Deck accessory is a superior charger. The included 45W charger with its fixed USB-C cable is suboptimal. A 65W charger is ideal for maximizing charging speed, especially during gameplay. A detachable USB-C cable, extra ports, and portability are also desirable features. We've selected five top-rated chargers for home or travel. All our choices are compatible with other handheld gaming PCs, phones, and more.
1. Anker 715 Charger – Best Overall
Best Overall: Anker 715 Charger
Specifications:
- Total Output: 65W
- Ports: 1 x USB-C (65W)
- Size: 1.65” x 1.42” x 1.74”
- Weight: 0.24 pounds
Pros: 65W charging, compact design.
Cons: Requires separate USB-C cable.
The Anker 715 is far more compact than the stock charger, easily fitting in a bag. Its GaN II technology delivers 65W charging while maintaining a small footprint. It's versatile, charging various devices quickly, although limited to one device at a time. A USB-C cable is needed separately (Anker's two-pack is a good, inexpensive option).
2. JSAUX 45W USB-C Power Delivery Charger – Best Budget Option
Best Budget Option: JSAUX 45W USB-C Power Delivery Charger
Specifications:
- Total Output: 45W
- Ports: 1 x USB-C (45W, attached)
- Size: 2.2” x 1.8” x 1.2”
- Weight: 0.33 pounds
Pros: Affordable, includes cable.
Cons: Non-detachable USB-C cable.
This is a cheap alternative or backup charger for the car or office. It offers 45W charging, similar to the original charger, fully charging the Steam Deck in approximately 2.5 hours. It features a durable, flexible USB-C cable (5ft or 10ft) and a 90-degree adapter for comfortable gaming while charging. It's also compatible with other USB-C devices.
3. Anker 733 Power Bank – Best Hybrid Charger
Best Hybrid Option: Anker 733 Power Bank
Specifications:
- Total Output: 65W (wall), 30W (battery)
- Ports: 2 x USB-C, 1 x USB-A
- Battery Capacity: 10,000mAh
- Size: 4.36” x 2.79” x 1.22”
- Weight: 0.71 pounds
Pros: Wall charger and power bank combined, multiple ports.
Cons: 30W battery charging speed.
This hybrid device is ideal for travelers. It functions as a wall charger (65W) and a portable power bank. GaN technology enhances efficiency and thermal protection. While it has multiple ports, simultaneous charging reduces speeds. The power bank provides approximately one full Steam Deck charge.
4. Anker 737 Power Bank – Best Power Bank
Best Power Bank: Anker 737 Power Bank
Specifications:
- Total Output: 140W
- Ports: 2 x USB-C (140W), 1 x USB-A (18W)
- Battery Capacity: 24,000mAh
- Size: 6.13” x 2.15” x 1.95”
- Weight: 1.39 pounds
Pros: High output (140W), large battery capacity (24,000mAh).
Cons: Bulky.
For on-the-go Steam Deck use, this high-capacity power bank is excellent. Its 24,000mAh battery provides approximately four full Steam Deck charges. It offers 140W output (though the Steam Deck won't utilize this fully), and an additional USB-A port allows for three simultaneous charges. It supports fast recharging via Power Delivery 3.1 and includes a USB-C cable and a power display.
5. Ugreen Nexode 200W 6-Port GaN Charger – Best USB Hub
Best USB Hub: Ugreen Nexode 200W 6-Port GaN Charger
Specifications:
- Total Output: 200W
- Ports: 2 x USB-C (100W), 2 x USB-C (65W), 2 x USB-A (10W)
- Size: 4.3” x 3.6” x 2.0”
- Weight: 1.14 pounds
Pros: Six ports (four USB-C), high charging speeds (up to 100W).
Cons: Expensive.
This charger supports six simultaneous devices with a 200W maximum output. It features four USB-C ports (two at 100W), ideal for fast charging of various devices including iPads and some laptops. Despite its multiple ports, it remains compact. GaN technology improves efficiency and heat management. A 100W USB-C cable is included. Simultaneous charging will reduce individual speeds.
Choosing the Right Steam Deck Charger
Consider price and the presence of at least one USB-C port. Budget options under $30 are available but often have limited ports. Higher budgets offer additional ports, faster charging, durable builds, and features like GaN technology and Power Delivery.
The Steam Deck's native charger is 45W. A 65W charger is a good balance, maximizing charging speed even during gameplay (which consumes around 15W). Higher wattage chargers won't increase charging speed beyond the Steam Deck's capabilities. For multi-device charging, a higher maximum output is beneficial.
Power banks or hybrid options are best for mobile gaming. Aim for at least a 10,000mAh battery for sufficient capacity. Higher wattage ensures faster charging, although these options are typically larger and heavier.
After selecting a charger, ensure compatibility with a USB-C cable that supports maximum charging speeds. For simultaneous charging and peripheral use (keyboard, mouse, monitor), a Steam Deck dock is a better option.
Steam Deck Charging FAQ
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Battery Life: The original Steam Deck (LCD) has a 40Whr battery lasting 7-8 hours maximum. The Steam Deck OLED (50Whr) offers improved battery life (30-50% better).
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Maximum Charging Speed: The Steam Deck's maximum charging speed is 65W. Higher wattage chargers are fine; the Steam Deck will only charge at its maximum rate. Lower wattage chargers will increase charging time.
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