DeckBro v1-Fixing Steam Deck Storage with Standard HDDs and SSDs

The DeckBro is a Steam Deck accessory that makes it easy and portable for hard drives to be connected. It’s got two storage compartments: one for any hard drive of the 2.5-inch form factor or less, and one for a USB-C hub. They’re connected together, and then to the Steam Deck, which has a USB C port on the top.

This is just the base, so you can see whether your hard drive fits, and to see if your USB adapter fits. The rest of the model is available on my CGTrader account, shown here:
https://www.cgtrader.com/3d-print-models/gadgets/pc-laptop/deckbro-fixing-steam-deck-storage-with-standard-hdds-and-ssds

Why did I make this? Because the Steam Deck’s internal storage kinda sucks, especially the 64 GB version. Sure, you could use SD cards, but for higher intensity titles and programs they are not gonna cut it. Maybe you could take it apart and change out the M2 hard drive, but that’s a hassle. That’s where the DeckBro comes in.

My goal was to make a fully 3D printed, barebones simple, snap together device. So, by printing out these parts and buying the two required consumer parts from Amazon, you’ve got everything you need. The two required parts are a USB C hub that fits (119mm by 29mm by 12mm) and has a USB 3.0 port, and a SATA to USB 3.0 cable. These are the two I used:

USB Hub: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WPTG7NX?psc=1&linkCode=sl1&tag=plasticbend0f-20&linkId=27cc99c5679cfbc5de22b383e864d0b2&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl
SATA to USB Cable: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07WPTG7NX?psc=1&linkCode=sl1&tag=plasticbend0f-20&linkId=27cc99c5679cfbc5de22b383e864d0b2&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl

The installation is a four step process (which I'll be adding pictures for soon):

1/4: First, slap in your USB C hub and place the hard drive next to it.

2/4: SNAP that lid on. Make sure all the clips get clipped!

3/4: Place your Steam Deck on top of the DeckBro, and then engage the latch on the top using the cylindrical edge as a hinge. Push down until the top clip engages.

4/4: Plug the SATA cord into the hard drive and the USB hub, and then plug the USB hub into the Deck. You’re done!

An optional step for securing the DeckBro down is threading a 3mm screw through the case and latch. This is a more permanent installation, because it requires a 3mm hex wrench to put on or take off.

I think this project has a lot of potential, so depending on user interest, I will keep updating this project! Because it is so easy to take apart and remove everything, it would be relatively simple for users to upgrade to a new version, or make other models. So far, my ideas for future growth include:

• USB powered fan

• Additional cable management

• Creating shells for alternative USB C hubs

• Adjusting for different hard drive types

• Adding a kickstand

• Cutouts with custom designs

Please try it out and let me know if you’ve got ideas for this project’s growth. Feel free to DM me if you'd like a custom model with something specific.