It wasn’t that long ago that JSAUX beat Valve to the punch and released its own version of the Steam Deck Dock, which was extremely successful. Since then, JSAUX has created multiple versions of its Steam Deck Docking station, including one that incorporates an M.2 SSD into the unit’s base. But most recently, the company decided to do something a bit different. Something smaller. A pint-sized docking station, if you may, with its JSAUX 3-Port Dock Station. It’s about the size of an AC wall adapter, but it can do so much more, as you’ll find out in this review.
As I alluded to, the JSAUX 3-Port Dock Station is no bigger than an AC adapter that one may use for a Steam Deck or various other devices. It looks like an AC wall adapter and is similar to the Genki Covert Dock, but it comes at a fraction of the price. The exception is that, at least for my version, this only works with the North American wall sockets. On the front of the device are two folding prongs that are used to plug in the 45-watt charger. To the rear is an HDMI 2.0, a USB-C 3.1, and a USB-A port.
The goal of this 3-Port Dock Station is to allow gamers to take their Steam Deck (or other devices!) with them wherever they go without having to also drag their Steam Deck with them. The 3-Port Dock Station can easily fit into a bag, or even a pocket, making this device ideal. Usage is simple; all you need to do is plug the device into an outlet, plug in the USB-C cord that’s included with the device, into the portable docking station, and to the Steam Deck. Then take an HDMI cable that’s connected to a TV or monitor, and connect it to the HDMI port. In doing so, you just made it possible to output the display of the Steam Deck to a quite larger display. Plus, another advantage over the Genki Convert Dock is that this also supports 4K@60Hz output.
With the USB-A port available, you can plug in a keyboard, USB drive, gaming controller, and, as I’ve tested, a USB-to-Ethernet adapter. All that power easily fits in the palm of your hand, and thanks to the 45-watt charging power, this can charge your Steam Deck while allowing you as much as you want. However, this little device can do more than enable you to enjoy your Steam Deck, as it also works just as well with a Nintendo Switch or phones with a USB-C port.
For testing purposes, I tested the device with my Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch, Samsung S22 Ultra, and iPad Pro. All worked without an issue in terms of charging and outputting an image. When using the USB-A port, I connected an Xbox Series controller for use on the Steam Deck, as well as a USB-to-ethernet adaptor, and a USB key, again with no issue. I’ll add that it was incredibly satisfying connecting the Switch to my living room TV, and getting in some rounds of Mario Kart 8 with such an itty bitty deck.
As for charging duties, the charger provides fast charging. JSAUX claims that this has circuits that protects whatever device is connected to it from over-voltage, short-circuiting, and overheating. This is important as while you’re playing your Steam Deck, Switch, or whatever else you plug into the dock, it won’t fry the USB-C port, leaving you with a useless device. Which is always good news.
The only downside of the JSAUX 3-Port Dock Station is that the USB-C cord that’s provided with the unit isn’t long enough. At just 3.3 feet, unless you like standing next to your TV or monitor, you’ll need to purchase at least a 10 ft charging and data cable to get maximum usage or connect it to an extension cable or surge protector. A LED light would also be nice to have. Still, given how much you can do with it, in my eyes, it’s a small price to pay for the versatility it affords.
All in all, the 3-Port Dock Station is useful in its own right, but I don’t see myself using it much. As I already have JSAUX’s original Steam Deck Docking Station in my office/gaming room, this won’t get used much here. However, when I want to continue playing a game on the Steam Deck, and my family demands my presence in the living room, I can see myself grabbing it for those occasions. Or when I end up making a trek such as PAX East, E3, or various other events, and I don’t want to take the bulkier (but not by much) JSAUX Steam Deck Docking Station, this beauty is coming with me. So, it will earn a permanent spot in my backpack.
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Summary
JSAUX’s 3-Port Dock Station is a pint-sized wonder that does what it’s supposed to do. That’s the biggest praise I can give it!
Pros
- Does what it’s supposed to
- Portable and powerful
- Decent build quality
- Less expansive to comparable products
Cons
- Wish it has a bit more wattage
- May need to use an extension cord with it
- Could use an LED light
