Not everyone has managed to get their hands on the Steam Machine. Valve is selling it via a reservation system with limited availability, meaning many interested buyers are still waiting for their chance to purchase. On top of that, some users have decided to skip it because of its high price tag. As a result, some enthusiasts have started creating their own alternatives.

We’ve already seen PC brands selling SteamOS desktops and other Steam Machine look-alikes… such as the “Stim Machine” from French retailer LDLC. As far as custom creations go, one of the latest we’ve seen is a Steam Machine-inspired docking solution for Lenovo’s popular Legion Go and Legion Go 2 handhelds.

Steam Machine-style dock for the Lenovo Legion Go

Reddit user Majestic-Scientist-6 recently shared a project called SteamBox, a 3D-printed enclosure designed to give the Legion Go and Go 2 a Nintendo Switch-like docking experience. Instead of simply acting as a dock, the enclosure is designed to hold additional hardware, allowing the handheld to become more like a desktop gaming system when connected.

According to the creator, the SteamBox will be able to house an external GPU (eGPU), a docking station, or other compatible hardware that fits inside the enclosure. It also features a bottom-mounted USB-C connector, allowing the handheld to dock and connect with a single motion. To make removing the device just as easy, the design also includes a dedicated eject mechanism.

Majestic-Scientist-6 has also focused on customization. The SteamBox uses modular parts that can be 3D printed separately in different colors, allowing users to mix and match components to create their own unique look instead of sticking with a single color. The official Steam Machine does something similar, with interchangeable faceplates. They say the design is mostly complete, with the next step being a test print to verify the measurements, fit, and overall functionality before making further improvements.

In a reply to another Reddit user, more details about eGPU compatibility were shared. The current version is designed to fit devices such as the ONEXGPU, ONEXGPU Lite, Morefine, and Aoostar eGPUs. The creator also revealed that they are working on a larger version of the enclosure that can host the AORUS AI Box RTX 5060 Ti.

About the Author

Abdul Haddi

Abdul is a tech writer and Editor for PC Guide, specializing in all things tech, gaming, and hardware.