There are different sizes of Steam Deck. In this article, we want to discuss whether the largest version is really the best.
Valve offers its handheld console in 3 variants:
The devices do not only differ in memory size, but also come with 2-3 other advantages - but are they really worth it?
The "basic version" with 64 GB storage is currently (September 2023) available for €419.00 and includes a carrying case for safe storage and transport.
It should be noted that this variant "only" has a normal display, which does not have any anti-reflective properties.
I am ignoring the "middle variant" with 256 GB in this comparison, as it only has more storage than the basic variant and contains digital content for the Steam community.
If we look at Valve's "flagship", it is a 512 GB Steam Deck, which comes with additional virtual content and a slightly different carrying case.
The largest variant also has an etched, anti-reflective display and currently costs €679.00.
But is the large version really worth it?
If the user is a bit tech-savvy (and here "a bit" is really enough), there are a few ways to raise the basic version to the same, if not a higher, level.
Here we show you how:
The only major differences between the smallest and largest Steam Deck variants are the display and the internal memory.
The reflective, normal display could of course be replaced with a matte display, but the exchange is not an easy matter. A matte display film or a matte protective or armored glass, which can be purchased for as little as €10.00, is much easier.
The storage difference between the two variants can also be solved cost-effectively. A suitable 1 TB SSD can be purchased for just under €100.00 without a special offer. (Often cheaper too.)
The internal SSD is pretty easy to replace. There are all sorts of instructions online.
As an example - here is a guide from iFixit.
Conclusion
If you don't care about the digital content of the Steam community, you can turn the smallest Steam Deck version with 64 GB of storage into an even more powerful Steam Deck version than is actually available for purchase, for an additional cost of around €110 and a little effort. (512 GB < 1 TB)
Another advantage is the ability to replace the display film or protective glass. If the matt finish disappears at some point in the "self-upgrade" version, a new film can be applied. If, on the other hand, the matte finish of the 512 GB version gets a blemish, the only option is to replace the display.
This means that the "large" Steam Deck with 512 GB for €679.00 is compared to the "upgrade" with 1 TB storage for €529.00. In our opinion, the additional expense is worth it for the savings and the larger internal hard drive.
No matter which version you choose, we hope you have fun with your Steam Deck!