DIY: Attach Nintendo Joy-Cons to a Framework Laptop Easily
▼ Summary
– Creator Sskki_TheBlindDemon designed a 3D-printable Joy-Con rail for the Framework 12, allowing Joy-Cons to attach to the laptop/tablet.
– The current design is a non-charging holder, but future plans include adding circuitry to enable Joy-Con charging while connected.
– The setup works by flipping the Framework 12 upside down, using it as a handheld with Joy-Cons, which are natively compatible with Steam.
– Sskki aims to improve the design by slimming the rail, raising it for flat placement, adding LED visibility, and implementing charging functionality.
– The Framework 12’s modular design encourages creative modifications, like this Joy-Con attachment or previous projects such as the Bethdeck handheld PC.
Transforming your Framework laptop into a handheld gaming device just got easier with this clever Joy-Con mod. A creative maker known as Sskki_TheBlindDemon has successfully attached Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons to a Framework 12 laptop, turning it into a portable gaming rig. The project, documented in a detailed blog post, includes 3D-printable schematics for custom rails that slot into the laptop’s expansion ports.
While the current design simply holds the controllers in place, future plans involve integrating charging circuitry to keep the Joy-Cons powered during gameplay. Sskki explains that fully functional charging would require reverse-engineering Nintendo’s proprietary tech, a costly endeavor for now. Instead, the focus remains on refining the physical design to improve usability.
The mod takes advantage of the Framework 12’s unique flexibility. Since the device doubles as a tablet, users can flip it upside down, positioning the keyboard on the underside for a true handheld experience. Joy-Cons work seamlessly with Steam’s native controller support, making them a practical choice despite their well-known drift issues. Sskki highlights their compact size, built-in rumble, and gyro controls as key advantages, though playing motion-controlled games on a 12-inch screen might feel awkward.
This isn’t the first time tinkerers have pushed Framework’s modular design to its limits. Last year, another enthusiast transformed a Framework 13 into a handheld gaming PC dubbed the Bethdeck. Sskki’s project continues that tradition, proving how repairable, upgradeable hardware inspires innovation.
Further refinements are already in the works. The creator aims to slim down the rail design to avoid blocking neighboring ports, raise the mounting points for better stability, and add LED visibility for pairing status. Once charging functionality is implemented, this could become one of the most versatile gaming setups around.
Early testing shows mixed performance, games like Hades and Yakuza 0 run smoothly with adjusted settings, while Enter the Gungeon presents some challenges. Still, for gamers who prefer controllers over keyboards, this mod offers a fresh way to enjoy PC titles on the go.
Framework’s commitment to modularity keeps sparking inventive projects, and with the Framework 12 earning a perfect repairability score from iFixit, expect even more creative hacks in the future. Whether you’re a tinkerer or just love unconventional tech, this Joy-Con adapter proves that customization knows no bounds.
(Source: PCGAMER)
