Modder builds Steam Deck-like handheld out of Framework laptop

Modder Steven B has shared how he’s made his own DIY Steam Deck by using the internals of a Framework laptop, and has dubbed it the “FrameDeck”.

Gaming handhelds are having bit of a moment, with dozens of companies racing to get their own handhelds out in the wild, with high-powered x86 handhelds being some of the most popular out there, such as the Steam Deck and Asus ROG Ally.

With so many options out there, one modder wanted to make something a bit more DIY. Thanks to advancements in modular laptop technology thanks to the handy folks at Framework, getting a smaller motherboard inside of a handheld-like chassis is easier than ever before. Steven used the Framework 13 motherboard and without any expansion ports, it is already smaller than the ROG Ally, which sets a great precedent.

Youtube: Steven B

The next issue was figuring out how power delivery was going to work for the battery, after exploring custom options, the modder settled on the Framework’s stock battery, which is much easier to use than trying to make your own, or using an external power brick.

After that, it was onto the display, which is a 7-inch touchscreen with a resolution of 1920×1200: Beating the Steam Deck’s own internal resolution. The controllers are made from hot-swappable mechanical low-profile switches and several analog sticks.

3D Printing magic & wiring required

Steven then continued to design the chassis of the device, and 3D printed the chassis, to assemble the entire case, which can be swapped out with future Framework motherboard revisions. The total weight of the device sits at 952g, which is quite a bit more than the ROG Ally and Steam Deck itself, but this is likely down to the size of the battery. However, it all works well together, and even looks like a fully-fledged handheld.

Steven notes that the project is still a prototype, but is still an incredibly interesting project. But, one thing stands above all: The Framework is a great thing for the industry, and it even supports extreme modifications. Who knows, this could just be the start of a DIY handheld craze.