How to Pick the Right Steam Deck Model for Fun Gaming

How to Pick the Right Steam Deck Model for Fun Gaming

Are you diving into the Steam Deck world? Awesome choice! Let’s chat about the different models available and what you might want to consider for your gaming adventures.

Which Steam Deck is Right for You?

If you’d rather keep things simple and not mess with your Steam Deck’s inside, the 256GB or 512GB models are your best buddies. They give you speedy game loads. Choose based on how many games you want and their sizes.

But if you’re the adventurous type and don’t mind opening up the Steam Deck, the 64GB model is a steal. Switch the 64GB eMMC for a bigger NVMe, and voila! Up to 2TB storage without breaking the bank.

For the best bang for your buck, the 256GB model is a winner. And if you ever need more space? Upgrade the internal NVMe or pop in a MicroSD card.

Getting to Know the Steam Deck Models

Steam Deck comes in three flavors, each with its own special perks. Let’s break down what each model brings to the table:

How’s the Steam Deck 64GB?

– Chipset: AMD Aerith APU
– CPU: Zen 2, 4 cores, 8 threads, speeds from 2.4-3.5GHz
– GPU: RDNA 2, speeds from 1.0-1.6GHz
– RAM: A cool 16GB
– Storage: 64GB eMMC, but with space for a microSD card
– Screen: 7-inch touchscreen, 1280 x 800, 60Hz
– Charging: Quick 45W via USB-C
– Battery: Lasts between 2-8 hours of gaming
– Size: Weighs 660 grams and fits snugly in your hands
– OS: Runs on SteamOS 3.0
– Price tag: $399

What About the Steam Deck 256GB?

– Chipset: AMD Aerith APU
– CPU: Zen 2, 4 cores, 8 threads, 2.4-3.5GHz speeds
– GPU: RDNA 2, with speeds between 1.0-1.6GHz
– RAM: Smooth 16GB
– Storage: 256GB NVMe SSD, and yes, a spot for microSD cards
– Screen: 7-inch touchscreen, with 1280 x 800 resolution at 60Hz
– Charging: Zippy 45W via USB-C
– Battery: Enjoy 2-8 hours of uninterrupted gameplay
– Size: A comfy 660 grams in weight
– OS: SteamOS 3.0 keeps it running
– Wallet dent: $529

And the Steam Deck 512GB?

– Chipset: AMD Aerith APU
– CPU: Zen 2, with speeds ranging 2.4-3.5GHz
– GPU: RDNA 2, moving between 1.0-1.6GHz
– RAM: 16GB ready for action
– Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD, with a microSD card slot
– Screen: 7-inch touchscreen, 1280 x 800, 60Hz, but with a bonus anti-glare finish
– Charging: Super 45W through USB-C
– Battery: Game for 2-8 hours straight
– Dimensions: Handy 660 grams, fits like a glove
– OS: Powered by SteamOS 3.0
– Pricing: $649

While each model has its charm, there are some extras with the 512GB version, like a unique case and some digital goodies to explore.

eMMC or NVMe? What’s the Difference?

Ever noticed that the 64GB Steam Deck uses eMMC while the 256GB and 512GB ones have NVMe? Here’s the lowdown: eMMC is like the wise old owl. It’s an older tech found in simpler laptops. While it sips on power, it’s a tad slower, maxing out at 400-500MB/s speeds. The good news? If you have the 64GB version, you can switch this out for a nippier NVMe.

Now, NVMe is like a fast and flashy sports car. It’s newer and found in the latest gaming rigs and even the new PlayStation and Xbox. With the Steam Deck’s setup, NVMe can zoom up to 4750MB/s, leaving eMMC in the dust.

How Storage Type Affects Your Gaming

Here’s the thing: the storage is where your Steam Deck’s brain lives. When you start up, this brain moves to the RAM. With the more relaxed pace of eMMC storage, booting up is about 25% slower compared to the Zippy NVMe SSDs. This also means games start a bit slower. But in real-world terms, you’re looking at a tiny 5-10-second difference, depending on the game. It’s not a biggie, but good to know!

Ways to Boost Your Steam Deck’s Storage

Are you running out of space? No worries! Valve’s got you covered with two cool options.

• MicroSD Card: Pop in a card up to 2TB. But remember, speed matters! Go for a high-speed card that plays nice with your Steam Deck.
• NVMe SSD: Valve says it’s a bit advanced, but hey, if you’re up for a mini project, swap the internal storage for a bigger SSD. You’ll get faster speeds and more room for games. If you need help, there are video guides that can walk you through.

What to Think About Before Buying a Steam Deck

When you’re choosing a Steam Deck model, remember these extra perks that the top models have. They aren’t just about more storage!

How Much Space Do You Need? Storage is key for picking your Steam Deck. Even though all models let you add storage with microSD cards, games play best from the built-in storage. Big games like Red Dead Redemption 2 can be up to 150GB! Games like Call of Duty Warzone need lots of space too. So, the 64GB model might be tight for big games. But smaller games? They’ll fit just fine.

See Clearly with Anti-Glare: The 512GB Steam Deck has a special screen that’s easy to see in the sun. It doesn’t beat the Nintendo Switch’s screen, but it’s still good for playing outside.

Want More Sun Protection?

If you want, you can add an anti-glare protector to the 64GB or 256GB models. It’s like the one on the 512GB model and helps you see in the sun.

Carry It With Style:

All Steam Decks come with a cool case. The 64GB and 256GB ones have a standard case. But the 512GB gets a fancy one with some extra stuff.

What’s in the Standard Case? This case is solid. When you open it, you’ll see it’s got padding inside just for the Steam Deck. It’s got a handle on top and a pocket in the back. And a cool grey Steam Deck logo on the front!

Fancy Case Details:

The fancy case looks like the regular one but has some special bits. The logo on it has colors. There’s also an extra bag for your power cord and a cloth to clean the screen. The inside fabric and zippers are a different color, making it special.

Special Digital Goodies Just for You

If you buy the 256GB or 512GB Steam Deck, you get the Special Profile Pack. It gives your profile a fresh look with a background, theme, icon, and more. The theme and icon have a cool, moving Steam Deck logo that shines.

The 512GB model also gives you a special on-screen keyboard look called “DEX-85“. It makes your Steam Deck’s keyboard look super cool.

These cool looks are fun, but remember to pick your Steam Deck based on what it does, not just how it looks.