Steam Machine faceplate that doubles as a charging dock for the Steam Controller has been prototyped
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The Steam Machine already supports custom faceplates, giving owners a way to personalize the front of their device. There are multiple third-party options available, and users can even 3D print their own designs. However, one community member has come up with an idea that focuses less on appearance and more on practicality.
Reddit user NefariousnessWhole25 is currently working on a custom Steam Machine faceplate that also serves as a docking and charging station for the Steam Controller. While the project is still being finalized, it has already attracted plenty of attention from the Steam community thanks to its clever design.
A much more practical Steam Machine faceplate
According to the creator, the idea came from wanting something more useful than a decorative faceplate. While concepts with displays looked interesting (JSAUX has already unveiled a few E-Ink and Dot Matrix designs), they felt the display wouldn’t be easy to read from where they normally sit. Instead, they decided to design a faceplate that gives the Steam Controller a dedicated place to rest and charge.
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The design allows users to dock the controller directly onto the front of the Steam Machine using the charging puck. Rather than having the puck and USB cable hanging around the console, the cable can be routed neatly behind the Steam Machine, keeping the setup much cleaner. The result is a charging solution that blends into the system instead of adding more clutter to a desk or TV stand.
The creator also revealed another useful feature. The stand isn’t permanently attached to the faceplate, meaning it can be detached and used on its own whenever needed. When it’s not being used separately, the stand slides neatly into the back of the faceplate, making the overall design more convenient.
Some Reddit users wondered whether the controller could accidentally fall off the dock. In response, the creator explained that an earlier version included a small shelf underneath the controller for extra support. However, after testing, they found that the magnets inside the charging puck were strong enough to hold the controller securely, making the additional shelf unnecessary.
The project is still a work in progress, so there is currently no release date or downloadable design available. However, we’re hoping that once development is complete, the creator will release the 3D-print files so other Steam Machine owners can make their own version.
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