Steam Deck Transformed into Compact Bento Keyboard-PC

Key Takeaways

1. Innovative Design: Bento is a DIY project that integrates a complete Steam Deck setup within a wireless keyboard, featuring a battery and fan for a compact AR display solution.

2. Unique Display Method: Instead of a traditional screen, Bento uses display glasses connected via a dongle, keeping the keyboard shell tidy and compact.

3. Creative Rebuild Process: The creator disassembled a Steam Deck and reconstructed it using a 3D-printed housing, facing challenges with ventilation and component fitting.

4. Nostalgic Aesthetic: The design has a retro feel, reminiscent of the classic Commodore 64, appealing to fans of vintage tech.

5. Future Enhancements Planned: The project is ongoing, with plans for interchangeable input modules, improved case design, and a product demo video.


Reddit user u/michaelthatsit is attracting quite a bit of interest within the Steam Deck modding scene with an innovative and tidy DIY project known as Bento. At first, it appears to be just a regular wireless keyboard. However, when you open it up, you’ll find a complete Steam Deck setup inside, including a fan, a battery, and everything needed to power a wearable AR display.

Unique Display Solution

Rather than utilizing a conventional screen, Bento employs a pair of display glasses that receive video through a dongle located within the case. This design choice keeps the keyboard shell neat and compact. Additionally, the overall layout showcases some smart design choices. For instance, there’s a specially carved area on the right side that functions as a “bento” tray for the dongle and potentially for future mouse attachments.

Creative Rebuild Process

To achieve this design, the creator completely disassembled a Steam Deck and reconstructed it into a two-part 3D printed housing. Ventilation was added to both the top and right sides, although it is said that cooling might still be an issue due to limited space—a problem the designer intends to fix in the next version.

Most of the build was designed and refined using Shapr3D, with numerous failed prints during the process. Components were obtained from eBay, and the entire idea originated from observing how well the internals of a Steam Deck could fit within the dimensions of a keyboard. The design has a nostalgic feel, reminiscent of the classic Commodore 64.

Future Developments on the Horizon

What’s fascinating is that this project is still in the works, with hints of future improvements such as interchangeable input modules and a more robust case for the electronics. There are also plans for a product-style demo video once everything is finalized.

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