When I hold the Steam Deck I often feel it sliding down. When holding an xbox or playstation controller I use my pinky finger to keep the controller in place. The weight of the Steam Deck is heavier and I think this is something that also contributes to this problem.
Another issue I’m having is with the thumb sticks. When playing games where both thumbsticks are constantly needed I feel, after a while that I need effort to keep my thumbs hovering above the thumbsticks, as if they stick out too far…
I do Not have small hands… But I’m looking to hear how others are holding the Steam Deck or if there is a good Ergonomic way to hold it.
I usually have the bottom resting on my desk
Upside down
I have tennis elbow from climbing that comes back every now and then, and the SteamDeck definitely aggravates it unfortunately. My elbow just doesn’t like to be slightly bent while carrying the weight of it. I have to rest it on my lap while sitting on the couch, which then means I’m looking down into my lap and causing some neck discomfort.
And I always want to hold it closer to my face to see better.
I’m only 32, make it stop please 😭
You might evaluate if it’s worth to slap a vesa mount adapter like the Deckmate on your deck and find a monitor arm that works for your usual gaming spot.
Driving anchors into a wall is a commitment, if you have one of those monitor arms that clamps on your desk yet it might be worth a shot.
If you’re slightly into metalworking and have a gaming chair, I think it can be adapted to be bolted on the base of one of the chair armrests without impairing the normal chair use (you can fold it behind the chair back when not in use).
I think the most suitable monitor arms for your scenario would be those ones with a gas piston. They usually have a screw to fine tune the upward force of the arm, you should be able to reach a “neutral buoyancy” point where your deck weight is turned to zero.
Your problems don’t mean you can’t enjoy gaming, you just need to find the right way :)
Laying down.
With both hands.
I like to mash the face buttons with my balls and use my 3rd leg for looking around.
I shift through three methods of holding it; each one distributes the weight a little different.
Pushing in with my index finger knuckles to hold the weight.
Resting the weight on my inner palms.
Then the “double pinky” method.
I cycle through them regularly and it keeps my hands happy.
Thank you for the serious reply. What is the double pinky method?
Still processing but might be easier to show and tell.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d9EBEHE5IGU
No monetization on this one - if you see Ads, blame YT.
I see what you mean now. Thank you for that.
Maybe it’s unfair to compare it directly to an xbox controller. The double pinky method is what I use with a regular controller and now I’m having a hard time with a specific skill based game (descenders)… Will try your other suggestions to see if I can compensate…As with anything it takes some adaptation for sure.