Few portable devices have been able to challenge the Nintendo Switch’s six (almost seven) year reign over the handheld market, which is a surprising feat, considering that the tech inside the console isn’t all that impressive (and overdue for an update). If anything, this is a testament to the quality of Nintendo’s first-party games, but it also left room for a device that’s just as convenient with better tech and more features. Valve came through with Steam Deck in 2022 and immediately filled that role, condensing a small PC into a handheld gaming device. And now the Steam Deck OLED is here, an updated version with a bigger and better screen, faster downloads, and more battery life.
The Steam Deck OLED comes with a 7.4” 1280 x 800 HDR OLED display with up to 90Hz refresh rate for richer colors and contrast (especially when it’s dark). The extra 30Hz is nice, too, especially now that we’ve seen what the Steam Deck is capable of, and Valve is also delivering a couple hours of more battery life, along with a more responsive touch screen. It’s 30g lighter than the LCD Steam Decks, with a larger fan and updated thermals to keep it cooler as well.
This version is powered by a 6nm APU and offers Wi-Fi 6E connectivity for faster downloads (and WiFi in general). It’s equipped with a 50Wh battery, for a battery life of 3 to 12 hours (depending on what you’re playing), and you also get a 45W power supply, accompanied by a generous 2.5m cable for easy charging. Both options come with a carrying case, but the 1TB choice has some extra goodies (like premium anti-glare etched glass on the display).
The Steam Deck OLED is available now, starting at $549 for the 512GB version and $649 for the 1TB version (which also includes anti-glare etched glass, an exclusive virtual keyboard theme, and an exclusive startup movie). It looks like they’re phasing out the 64GB and the 512GB LCD models, and a limited edition translucent version (with all the extras from the 1TB model) is also available.
