The PC0106 RGB and Vents Accessory Kit: A Comprehensive Guide to Leveling Up Your Steam Deck Experience
Grip and Aesthetics: Intricacy Meets Simplicity
The hexagon grip pattern is a key feature of the PC0106 accessory kit, designed to improve your holding experience with your Steam Deck. Each hexagonal indent serves to better adhere to your hand’s natural shape. But not everything is rainbows and unicorns here. The color choice of grey may feel a bit dull or uninspired to some users, especially those craving a bolder statement.
RGB and Transparency: A Symphony of Light and Sight
The PC0106 kit goes above and beyond in aesthetics, featuring an intricate RGB lighting system that offers stunning colors. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill, single-color setup; we’re talking about a full spectrum of hues that dance on your Steam Deck. Pair this with the transparent back cover, and you get a look inside the hardware that powers your gaming sessions. It’s like window-shopping the inner workings of your device while it’s all lit up.
Heat Management: An Icarus Flight?
On paper, the vent design, coupled with thermally conductive silicone grease and a heat-dissipation aluminum sheet, seems like a home run. But hold your horses! The thermal pad that comes along with it might just be its Achilles’ heel. It’s thick—too thick—to offer optimal heat dissipation, posing a potential risk to the device’s long-term performance. Another red flag? A specific metal plate located just a mere centimeter away from the back buttons heats up considerably at times. Definitely something to consider, particularly if young gamers are in the mix.
Build Quality: Close, but No Cigar
Quality control seems to have taken a backseat at some point during the manufacturing process. The seam where the Jsaux plate meets the front of the Steam Deck plate is not entirely flush. It’s a minor issue, but for gamers who nitpick over details, this could be a deal-breaker. The term “luck of the draw” comes to mind when assessing the build quality.
Feature Deep-Dive
- Height Customization: The kit doesn’t pigeonhole you into a one-size-fits-all scenario. You have three height options—original, high, and low—to cater to different hand sizes and gaming styles.
- Battery Life and Charging Mechanics: The built-in 150mAh lithium battery fuels the RGB lighting, with a lifespan fluctuating between 2-5 hours based on the selected lighting mode. The Type-C charging support allows for hassle-free, simultaneous gaming and charging.
- Silicone Grip Extras: The included silicone grips serve a dual purpose. They not only enhance the grip but also add uniformity to the RGB lighting effects, ensuring no obstruction to the rear vent.
Pro Tips and Cautions
Installation of this kit is not a walk in the park. The transparent back cover, especially, demands a fair bit of expertise in DIY and electronic device disassembly. Always refer to iFixit videos or seek professional services to sidestep any catastrophic equipment failures. And be aware: some RGB back plates may arrive in a non-functional state due to lack of power and require an initial charge.
Version Selection
The PC0106 kit offers flexibility in choice between its RGB and Vents versions. The former focuses on visual aesthetics, while the latter aims for better cooling efficiency. Choose wisely based on your gaming priorities.
In delivering this in-depth review, G-LYFE is committed to ensuring that you have all the information you need to make the most educated decision when considering the PC0106 accessory kit for your Steam Deck.