The original Steam Deck is infamous for its poor battery life; the Steam Deck OLED offers slight improvements, but it still falls short of all-day use. A reliable USB-C charger is essential to prevent power outages during crucial 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 you covered.
TL;DR – Top Steam Deck Chargers
Best Overall: Anker 715 Charger
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Best Budget: JSAUX 45W USB-C Power Delivery Charger
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Best Hybrid: Anker 733 Power Bank
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Best Power Bank: Anker 737 Power Bank
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Best USB Hub: Ugreen Nexode 200W 6-Port GaN Charger
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A crucial Steam Deck accessory is a superior charger – the included 45W charger with its fixed USB-C cable is subpar. A 65W charger is ideal for maximizing charging speed, particularly while gaming. A detachable USB-C cable, extra ports, and portability are also desirable features. We've selected five excellent Steam Deck chargers for home or travel. All our choices are compatible with most handheld gaming PCs, phones, and other devices.
1. Anker 715 Charger – Best Overall
Best Overall: Anker 715 Charger
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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 included Steam Deck charger's 45W output and non-detachable cable are limiting. The Anker 715 is far more compact, with foldable prongs, making it highly portable. Its 65W output (via GaN II technology) ensures the fastest charging speeds. It's versatile, charging various devices quickly, but it only has one USB-C port. A USB-C cable is needed separately; Anker's two-pack is a cost-effective choice.
2. JSAUX 45W USB-C Power Delivery Charger – Best Budget
Best Budget: JSAUX 45W USB-C Power Delivery Charger
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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. For under $20, it offers 45W charging (like the original charger), fully charging the Steam Deck in approximately 2.5 hours. It features a durable, flexible 5ft or 10ft USB-C cable and a 90-degree adapter for comfortable gaming while charging. It's also compatible with other USB-C devices. JSAUX also produces our top-rated Steam Deck docking station.
3. Anker 733 Power Bank – Best Hybrid
Best Hybrid: Anker 733 Power Bank
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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, multiple ports
Cons: 30W battery charging speed
The Anker 733 combines a wall charger and power bank, ideal for travelers. It functions as a typical power bank but includes foldable prongs for 65W wall charging. GaN technology enhances efficiency and thermal protection. It offers two USB-C and one USB-A port, but charging speeds decrease with multiple devices. Battery charging is limited to 30W, but it still provides over one full Steam Deck charge.
4. Anker 737 Power Bank – Best Power Bank
Best Power Bank: Anker 737 Power Bank
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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: 140W output, large battery capacity
Cons: Bulky
For on-the-go Steam Deck use, the Anker 737 is a powerful power bank. Its 24,000mAh capacity (near the TSA limit) provides approximately four full Steam Deck charges. It delivers 140W output via USB-C, though the Steam Deck won't utilize that speed. An additional USB-A port allows charging three devices simultaneously. It supports fast recharging via Power Delivery 3.1 and bi-directional technology. It 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
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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, high-speed USB-C ports
Cons: Expensive
The Ugreen Nexode charges up to six devices simultaneously with a 200W maximum output. It includes four USB-C and two USB-A ports; two USB-C ports offer 100W charging. While the Steam Deck won't reach this speed, it's excellent for iPads or gaming laptops. It includes a 100W USB-C cable. Charging speeds reduce with multiple devices. Despite its numerous ports, it remains compact, making it a portable USB charging hub. GaN chips improve efficiency and heat management. Expect a higher price point.
Choosing a Steam Deck Charger
Key factors include price and at least one USB-C port. Budget options under $30 exist but often limit you to one port. Higher budgets usually mean extra ports, faster charging, durable build quality, and features like GaN technology, advanced Power Delivery, and smart displays.
The Steam Deck uses a 45W charger; aim for at least that. 65W is optimal for fast charging, even during gameplay (which consumes around 15W). Higher wattage is fine; the Steam Deck won't charge faster. For multiple devices, a higher maximum output is beneficial.
Power banks or hybrids are ideal for on-the-go use. At least 10,000mAh is recommended. Higher wattage ensures faster charging; however, these are generally larger and heavier.
After selecting a charger, ensure you have a USB-C cable supporting maximum charging speeds. For simultaneous charging and peripheral use (keyboard, mouse, monitor), consider a Steam Deck dock.
Steam Deck Charging FAQ
How long does the Steam Deck battery last?
The original LCD Steam Deck's 40Whr battery lasts 7-8 hours maximum. In testing, God of War depleted the battery in 90 minutes at default settings. Lowering settings improves battery life, but a charger or power bank is crucial. The Steam Deck OLED is more efficient, with a 50Whr battery offering up to 12 hours of playtime (30-50% better than the LCD model).
What is the Steam Deck's maximum charging speed?
The maximum charging speed is 65W. Higher wattage chargers are acceptable; the Steam Deck will only charge at its maximum rate. Lower wattage chargers will increase charging time.