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I’ll start by saying I didn’t go to college or university.
Back then, I had to carry around a large, heavy laptop, but how times have changed.
The Steam Deck is a powerful PC and not just for playing games.
Like any laptop, desktop, or mini PC, you could accessorize it however you just.
It’s not difficult, either.
The first essential piece of the puzzle is a good dock.
A good dock is the first thing to get to unlock the PC potential of your Steam Deck.
It does it all.
So you need a dock.
For me, that’s theJSAUX Steam Deck Dock.
It’s more affordable than Valve’s official offering without compromising on connectivity.
Best of all, theJSAUX Steam Deck Dock can be had for less than $40.
It’s an absolute steal and truly a must-have accessory.
Dell’s new silent mouse and keyboard combo is a perfect addition to a handheld to get some work done.
after you grab your dock, you need a keyboard and mouse.
And being silent, you’re able to post up in the library without irritating anyone within earshot.
The other essential is an external display.
TheHongo 2K 16-inch portable monitoris something we have reviewed highly, and it fits the use case perfectly.
It also has a 2560 x 1600 resolution, so words will look nice and sharp.
Being portable means it’s never chained to your dorm room, either.
A portable monitor is a great space saver and doesn’t have to cost the earth.
With a Steam Deck, it builds a desktop you’re free to take with you.
And no, you don’t have to spend your life in the terminal.
Audio editorAudacityhas a Linux version, and the ever-popularVLCis also there.
Microsoft’s ownVS Code is available on Linux, as are a number of alternatives.
And if you might’t find the app you need, see if there’s a web app.
On my Linux machines, I use web apps a lot, even when there are desktop versions available.
GIMP is a free alternative to Photoshop and it’s brilliant.
I use Telegram, Discord, Spotify, and Netflix as PWAs.
But because it’s a PC, the fun doesn’t have to stop there.
For instance, if you want some speakers, I’d recommend theRazer Leviathan V2 X at $90.
If you need extra storage, a Samsung T7 portable SSD is a fine choice compared to ripping the back off your Deck and upgrading the internal drive.
We’ve got a full guide on taking a Windows-powered handheld off to school right here.
