Valve Steam Deck
PC gaming on the go with console-level ergonomics and your entire Steam library.
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Why people are buying it
The Valve Steam Deck is a powerful handheld gaming computer designed to bring your PC library anywhere. Powered by a custom AMD APU and running SteamOS, it offers flexible controls including dual trackpads and thumbsticks. It functions as both a portable console and a full desktop PC when docked.
- Powerful custom AMD Zen 2 and RDNA 2 hardware
- Comprehensive control layout featuring dual trackpads
- Access to your complete Steam PC library
- Customizable SteamOS optimized for handheld play
- Dockable design for desktop monitor connection
What it does well
- Access to massive Steam library
- Excellent ergonomics and controls
- Great value for money
- Highly customizable SteamOS
What to weigh
- Battery life varies heavily by title
- Larger and heavier than Nintendo Switch
- Some games incompatible due to anti-cheat
Should you buy it?
The Valve Steam Deck is an essential purchase for PC gamers who want freedom from their desks without losing access to their Steam library. While battery life can be short on demanding titles, its overall versatility and performance make it the gold standard of handheld gaming PCs.
Specifications
| General | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Valve |
| Release Year | 2022 (LCD) / 2023 (OLED) |
| Included Accessories | Carrying case, power supply |
| Display | |
| Type | IPS LCD or HDR OLED |
| Refresh Rate | Up to 90Hz (OLED) |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Performance | |
| CPU | 4-core / 8-thread Zen 2 |
| GPU | 8 CUs RDNA 2 |
| Memory | 16GB LPDDR5 on-board RAM |
| Other | |
| Audio | Stereo with embedded DSP |
| Expansion | MicroSD card slot supporting UHS-I and UHS-II |
| Ports | USB Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4 alt-mode |
From published manufacturer information. Check the store listing for the exact variant.
How it compares
| Product | Display | OS | RAM | Storage | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Valve Steam Deck | 7" / 7.4" 800p | SteamOS | 16GB | 64GB - 1TB | 640g |
| ASUS ROG Ally | 7" 1080p 120Hz | Windows 11 | 16GB | 512GB | 608g |
| Nintendo Switch OLED | 7" 720p OLED | Horizon OS | 4GB | 64GB | 422g |
Worth a look instead
Questions buyers ask
Can I play non-Steam games on the Steam Deck?
Yes, you can install other launchers like Epic Games or use Desktop mode to run non-Steam applications.
Is the storage upgradeable?
Yes, all models feature a MicroSD card slot, and the internal M.2 SSD can technically be replaced by advanced users.
Does it work as a normal computer?
Yes, switching to Desktop Mode turns the Steam Deck into a fully functional Linux-based desktop PC when connected to peripherals.
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