Compact gaming PC constructed by housing Steam Deck internals within an Apple Magic Keyboard.
Unleashing the Steam Deck: The Bento Mod
You've probably seen some awe-inspiring Steam Deck mods by now, like the "Steam Brick" and the 32GB RAM upgrade. But Michaelthatsit on Reddit has taken things to another level with his Bento mod, creating a portable "SteamOS desktop" system from the Deck's guts itself!
The Bento mod transforms the Deck into a highly mobile, keyboard-integrated SteamOS system. Michael showcases this in a unique way on Reddit, demonstrating its use with Type-C-powered display glasses instead of a traditional screen.
To pull off this witchery, Michael discards the Deck's internal motherboard and other crucial components from the console's original clamshell, relocating them into a custom-made 3D-printed chassis designed to fit neatly under an Apple 10-keyless Magic keyboard.
The chassis boasts two chambers: a larger one on the left, housing the Deck's internal hardware, including the battery, and equipped with vents on the left and top sides to ensure optimal cooling. The right chamber acts as a handy storage compartment; Michael, in his Reddit images, uses it to stash a Type-C USB hub. The cleverly designed 3D-printed chassis fits snugly under the Apple Magic keyboard, sporting rounded edges that perfectly mesh with the keyboard's sleek design.
Michael's Bento mod has already seen a fully functioning version, but it's not perfect. The 3D-printed shell had to be produced in two pieces due to the format of his 3D printer. Plus, the design lacks built-in mouse controls, which Michael intends to rectify in his next iteration by creating a single piece for the chassis and adding dedicated modules to implement mouse functionality.
The Bento mod highlights the potential of the Steam Deck's hardware when combined with creative genius. While the mod caters particularly to steam enthusiasts unfazed by the Deck's desktop capabilities, it's yet another testament to the wonders the Steam Deck can achieve.
Want to stay ahead of the game?
Join the Tom's Hardware Newsletter. Get exclusive access to our latest news, in-depth reviews, and groundbreaking technologies, delivered straight to your inbox.
Follow Tom's Hardware on Google News for our ongoing news, analysis, and reviews, updated daily.
[Sources:] (1) Michaelthatsit - Reddit (2) Gutensohn - GitHub (3) XReal One - AR Glasses (4) XReal One - FAQs
This Bento mod ingeniously repurposes the Steam Deck's internal hardware, including the battery and key components, into a portable SteamOS system that can be used with Type-C-powered display glasses, showcasing the fusion of technology and artificial-intelligence. The integration of the modified Steam Deck with a keyboard enhances the accessibility of the Steam Deck's gadget-like capabilities, pushing the boundaries of handheld gaming devices.
