Steam Deck: Top Chargers for Extended Playtime

The original Steam Deck is notorious for its underwhelming battery life; the Steam Deck OLED offers a marginal improvement, but neither lasts all day. A reliable USB-C charger is essential to avoid power outages during crucial gaming moments. Our top pick is the compact and fast-charging Anker 715 Charger.

Whether you need a powerful power bank for on-the-go charging, a budget-friendly option for the car or office, or a multi-port wall charger, we've got you covered.

TL;DR – The Best Steam Deck Chargers

A top-tier Steam Deck accessory is undoubtedly a superior charger. The Steam Deck's included 45W charger, with its non-removable USB-C cable, leaves much to be desired. A 65W charger maximizes charging speed, especially during gameplay. A detachable USB-C cable, extra ports, and portability are also highly desirable features. We've selected five excellent Steam Deck chargers for home or travel, all compatible with other handheld gaming PCs, phones, and more.

1. Anker 715 Charger

Best Overall

While the Steam Deck's included charger suffices, its 45W output and non-detachable cable limit portability. The Anker 715 Charger, measuring just 1.65x1.42x1.74 inches with foldable prongs, is far more compact. Its 65W output, enabled by GaN II technology, ensures the fastest charging speeds. The Anker 715 is versatile, charging smartphones, tablets, and more quickly. Note that it only has a single USB-C port and doesn't include a cable.

2. Jsaux 45W USB-C Power Delivery Charger

Best Budget Option

Need a cheap Steam Deck charger replacement or a spare for the car or office? The Jsaux 45W USB-C Power Delivery Charger is an excellent budget option. For under $20, it offers a 45W max charging speed (like the original charger), fully charging your Steam Deck in about 2.5 hours. It features a durable, flexible 5ft or 10ft USB-C cable and a 90-degree USB-C adapter for comfortable gaming while charging. It's also compatible with other USB-C devices, such as the Nintendo Switch.

3. Anker 733 Power Bank

Best Hybrid Charger

The Anker 733 Power Bank combines a wall charger and portable battery, ideal for travelers. Its foldable prongs deliver 65W as a wall charger. GaN-powered charging ensures efficiency and thermal protection. It includes a second USB-C port and a USB-A port, although charging speeds decrease when multiple devices are connected. While battery charging is limited to 30W, it still provides over one full Steam Deck charge.

4. Anker 737 Power Bank

Best Power Bank

For on-the-go Steam Deck gaming, the Anker 737 Power Bank is a powerhouse. Its 24,000 mAh capacity (near the TSA limit) provides about four full Steam Deck charges. It offers a 140W output (via USB-C), although the Steam Deck won't utilize the full speed. An additional USB-A port allows for three simultaneous device charging. The power bank also supports fast recharging via Power Delivery 3.1 and bi-directional technology. Anker includes a USB-C to USB-C cable and a power display.

5. Ugreen Nexode 200W 6-Port GaN Charger

Best USB Hub

The Ugreen Nexode 200W 6-Port GaN Charger charges up to six devices simultaneously with a 200W maximum output. It features four USB-C ports (two at 100W) and two USB-A ports. While the Steam Deck won't use the full 100W, it's excellent for iPads or gaming laptops. Ugreen includes a 100W USB-C cable. Charging speeds decrease with multiple devices connected. Despite its numerous ports, it remains compact, making it a great portable USB charging hub. Four GaN chips enhance efficiency and thermal management.

How to Choose the Best Steam Deck Charger

Choosing a Steam Deck charger involves several factors, with price and at least one USB-C port being paramount. Budget options under $30 exist but usually offer only one port. Higher budgets unlock additional ports, faster charging speeds, more durable builds, and features like GaN technology, advanced Power Delivery, and smart displays.

The Steam Deck includes a 45W charger, so aim for at least that. 65W is ideal for maximum charging speed, even during gameplay (which consumes around 15W). Higher wattage chargers are fine; the Steam Deck won't charge faster. For multiple device charging, higher maximum output is beneficial.

Power banks or hybrid options are great for on-the-go play. Aim for at least a 10,000mAh battery for longer playtime. Higher wattage ensures faster charging, but these options are typically larger and bulkier.

After selecting a charger, ensure you have a USB-C cable supporting maximum charging speeds. For charging and using peripherals (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 it in 90 minutes. Lowering settings improves battery life, but a charger or power bank is essential. The Steam Deck OLED, with its 50Whr battery, offers up to 12 hours and 30–50% better battery life than the LCD model.

What is the maximum charging speed of the Steam Deck?

The Steam Deck's maximum charging speed is 65W. Higher wattage chargers are acceptable; the Steam Deck will only charge at its maximum rate. Lower wattage chargers will charge more slowly.