In 2022, Valve launched the Steam Deck, a portable console with dimensions similar to the Nintendo Switch, but capable of running almost any game from the platform’s huge catalog. In this way, it has become one of the best options to enjoy AAA titles, on the go or without having to spend on a high-end PC.

Although the launch of this console has been somewhat bumpy due to the lack of available discs and operating system bugs, everything seems to indicate that the Steam Deck is at its best. Don’t believe us? So read on.

How does Steam Deck work?

Steam Deck runs on SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system capable of running Windows games through Valve’s own Proton software.

In addition to an interface designed for gaming and very easy to use, users of this console can access the SteamOS operating system, which allows them to install third-party computer applications and games, turning the Steam Deck into a kind of hybrid between a computer and a portable console. .

Design

In terms of design, the console measures 29.8cm x 11.7cm x 4.9cm, has a 1280 x 800 pixel LCD touchscreen, a button layout similar to Xbox controls, two trackpads on the front that can be used like a mouse and four additional buttons on the back that can be configured to perform any function.

In addition, the Steam Deck can be connected to a TV or monitor using USB-C to HDMI and DisplayPort cable adapters, or it can be placed in its own dock, which is sold separately.

Of course, unlike the Japanese laptop, the Steam Deck accepts any kind of controller, whether they’re from Xbox, Nintendo, or PlayStation; You can configure the controls and buttons of each controller through the Steam Controller, which offers a more convenient experience.

Performance

The Steam Deck has 16 GB of DDR5 RAM and an internal GPU with AMD RDNA 2 architecture, comparable to NVIDIA’s GTX 1050 or AMD’s RX 550; In terms of storage, the console has three versions, one with 64GB MMC and the other two with 256 and 512GB SSD.

It should be noted that Steam Decks are not designed so that their internal storage can be expanded (although with a little trick it is possible); even so, you can increase and expand the total memory of the console by up to another 1 TB using Micro SD cards.

Although the console had some performance issues in its early days, it is currently able to run titles like Resident Evil 4 Remake without ever dropping below 30 FPS; Of course, we recommend that you try different graphics settings in each game, because the console does not always support the maximum game settings.

If you want to know how well a game is doing on Steam Deck, just check the box available in the bookstore and store; There are a total of four brands available:

• Verified: Games that work without any modifications.
• Playable: Titles that require various options to be adjusted for smooth playback.
• Not supported: Games that do not work on Steam Deck.
• Unknown: Games that have not yet been tested.

Where can I buy a Steam Deck?

Currently, the Steam Deck can only be purchased in certain countries in Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States through the Steam site itself.

In Spain, the console can cost between €419, €549 and €679 depending on the model you choose. Although the €419 version is cheaper, we recommend getting the 256 and 512 models as these work with SSDs, allowing for better load times compared to the 64GB version which uses MMC.

What is the future of Steam Deck?

According to Omdie’s report, the Steam Deck sold a total of 1.62 million units; Although these numbers are low compared to the Nintendo Switch, the same report reveals that Valve would not only be looking to sell units, but also to collect usage data to improve its SteamOS operating system so that it can be used on other devices without having to rely on on Windows..

According to a statement from Valve staff, we’re still a few years away from seeing Steam Deck 2, so it’s a great time to pick one up and take your PC games everywhere and play online wherever you want without paying for a subscription.

Images | Pexels