Smartphones and computers have become essential tools for our daily activities, and one of the most frequently performed actions is copying and pasting content. This straightforward function is usually effortless to execute. However, for Steam Deck owners, the process may not be as seamless. While using an external mouse and keyboard is an option, it can feel cumbersome. So how can you efficiently utilize the copy-and-paste feature on your Steam Deck?
If you’re accustomed to using a PC, you can accomplish this with keyboard shortcuts combined with mouse clicks. On smartphones, it’s typically a matter of tapping and selecting text. But what’s the procedure for the Steam Deck? Whether you are contemplating a purchase or are already a user, this guide will walk you through it.
How to Perform Copy and Paste on Steam Deck
There are two primary methods to execute the copy and paste function on the Steam Deck. It’s important to note that the right click functionality on conventional PCs operates as the left click on the Steam Deck. If this sounds a bit perplexing, we’ve detailed both methods below for clarity.
Method 1: Drag and Drop Technique
This approach allows you to effortlessly transfer files from the desktop to various folders.
- Begin by tapping the right trackpad on your Steam Deck to select the desired item.
- Press and hold the item using the right trackpad.
- As you move the file or folder to its new location, release the right trackpad.
- Then, tap the right trackpad again and select the Paste option.
- And that’s how you can relocate files or folders using this drag-and-drop method.
While this method may seem a bit redundant, as it requires an additional tap to paste, it does effectively serve its purpose.
Method 2: Copy and Paste via the L2 Trigger Button
This alternative method explains how to use the L2 trigger button for copying and pasting files. Here’s how to perform it:
- First, select the file or text you want to copy.
- Press the L2 trigger button located on the left side of the Steam Deck.
- A context menu will appear next to the item you’ve selected.
- Choose the Copy option from the menu to save the file or text.
- Navigate to the destination where you intend to paste the copied content.
- Press the L2 trigger again to access the context menu.
- Select Paste to complete the action. That’s how to copy and paste using the L2 trigger.
Does the Right Click Function Work on Steam Deck?
If you’re not using an external USB or wireless mouse, the L2 trigger button on your Steam Deck acts similarly to the right-click options found on many Windows, macOS, and Linux devices.
However, should you opt for an external mouse, the right-click function will operate just like the left L2 trigger button.
For an alternative method of copying and pasting on the Steam Deck, the on-screen keyboard can also be utilized through the Steam Desktop interface. To copy, press the Steam button alongside the letter X. To paste, use the Steam button with the letter V.
Final Thoughts
If you require left-click functionality, utilizing the R2 trigger button is a straightforward solution. The entire process is user-friendly. You can even utilize the touch screen on the Steam Deck to enable easy copying and pasting of your items.
Leave a Reply ▼