The dreaded “stick drift”—a controller’s bane where the analog stick registers movement even when untouched—can plague any gamer, including Steam Deck users. While rare, it’s a confirmed issue. Thankfully, the Steam Deck’s open nature allows for a fix: replacing the standard sticks with hall effect joysticks. This guide will walk you through the process.
Understanding the Upgrade: Hall Effect Joysticks
Hall effect joysticks utilize magnets and sensors instead of physical contact, offering superior durability and eliminating stick drift. GuliKit, a third-party supplier, offers affordable hall effect joystick replacements specifically designed for the Steam Deck.
Tools for the Job
Before starting, gather the necessary tools:
- Prying Tools: A spudger, guitar picks, or even a pocket knife (less ideal) to gently open the case.
- Screwdriver: A Phillips-head (cross-head) screwdriver.
- Tweezers: For precise handling of small components.
- Optional: A soldering iron for those wishing to preserve the thumbstick touch detection feature. An iFixit tool kit contains all the essentials and is a great option.
Step-by-Step Replacement Guide
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Opening the Steam Deck: Remove the eight screws on the back of the Steam Deck. Carefully pry open the back shell using your chosen tool. The top shell doesn’t need removal.
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Locating the Stick Modules: Inside, you’ll see the left and right stick modules secured by three screws each.
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Disconnecting the Modules: Gently lift the protective flap on the ribbon cable with tweezers. Unscrew the three screws holding each module in place. Gently push from the front of the Steam Deck to remove the module. Repeat for the other side.
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Transferring the Analog Sticks: The analog sticks are attached to the modules with a small soldered red cable. This cable detects when your thumbs are resting on the sticks.
- Option 1 (Simpler): Cut or detach the cable. The sticks will function perfectly without this feature.
- Option 2 (Preserving Touch Detection): Use a soldering iron to carefully desolder the wire from the old module. Resolder it to the corresponding spot on the new GuliKit module.
Steam deck analog stick soldering Soldering is optional, but preserves thumbstick touch detection.
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Reassembling the Modules: Place the original analog sticks onto the new GuliKit module circuit boards.
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Reinstalling the Modules: Position the modules back in their respective locations (note the “R” and “L” markings). Secure them with the three screws, reattach the ribbon cable, and carefully lower the protective flap. This step requires precision.
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Closing the Steam Deck: Replace the back shell and reinsert the eight body screws.
Enjoy Drift-Free Gaming!
Your Steam Deck is now equipped with durable, hall effect joysticks, eliminating stick drift. This upgrade provides a long-term solution for precise and responsive gaming. For more tech and gaming guides, check out PCWorld on YouTube!
