A community designed Steam Machine faceplate is turning a cosmetic part into something more practical by doubling as a charging dock for the Steam Controller.
The custom design uses the front of the Steam Machine as a resting point for the controller, with shaped recesses for its grips and a charging puck positioned in the center.
Magnets in the puck are strong enough to hold the controller in place while charging, creating a compact storage solution that keeps the controller directly attached to the system.
Steam Machine charging faceplate details
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Main function | Steam Machine faceplate |
| Secondary function | Steam Controller dock |
| Charging method | Magnetic charging puck |
| Controller support | Steam Controller |
| Cable management | USB cable hidden from view |
| Standalone use | Can also work as a separate stand |
| Availability | Still being finalized |
| Community project | Yes |
The accessory is still a work in progress and has not been announced as a commercial product.
Faceplate uses Steam Machine’s modular design
The project became possible after Steam Machine CAD files were made publicly available.
That gives community designers access to the system’s physical measurements, making it easier to create replacement panels and accessories that fit correctly.
Several custom faceplates have already appeared, including designs focused mainly on appearance.
This project takes a different approach by using the replaceable front panel as part of a functional accessory.
Instead of occupying additional desk space, the charging dock becomes part of the Steam Machine itself.
Magnetic puck holds the controller in place
The faceplate includes shaped areas that support the Steam Controller’s handles.
A charging puck sits between them and magnetically connects with the controller.
The magnets provide enough force to keep the controller attached to the front of the Steam Machine rather than simply resting loosely against it.
That makes the setup useful for both charging and storage.
When gaming is finished, the controller can be placed directly onto the front of the system and left there until it is needed again.
The design also hides the USB cable used by the charging puck, reducing visible cable clutter around the system.
Dock can also work without the Steam Machine
The faceplate design is not limited to being attached to the console.
Its shape allows it to function as a standalone Steam Controller stand as well.
That gives the project some flexibility for people who might want the charging arrangement without permanently attaching the panel to the Steam Machine.
The concept could also make future revisions easier because the dock itself can be treated as a separate accessory rather than requiring changes to the rest of the system.
Community accessories are beginning to expand
Steam Machine’s public CAD files are likely to encourage more third party and community made accessories.
Replaceable faceplates are particularly well suited to experimentation because they can alter the look or function of the machine without requiring changes to its internal hardware.
A charging dock is one practical example.
Other designs could potentially add storage, cable management or mounting options if creators continue experimenting with the available dimensions.
The current Steam Controller dock is still being refined, so there is no confirmed price or release plan.
It is also unclear whether the designer intends to sell finished units or simply release files so owners can make their own.
For now, the project shows how the Steam Machine’s replaceable faceplate can be used for more than decoration. By combining controller storage, magnetic charging and cable management into the front panel, the accessory provides a simple way to keep the Steam Controller ready without adding another dedicated dock to the desk.
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