The number of gamers is on the rise. In 2021 there were 1.4bn pc players, and by 2024, there will be 1.5bn.
As for console gamers, in 2021 there were 871mn, and by 2024 there’s expected to be 943mn.
These forecasted statistics are no surprise when there’s every game imaginable to suit all.
From variations of casino classics like Starburst slot to fantasy world play games MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing game) such as WoW – there is something for everyone.
But this isn’t a question about how much you love games, that’s obvious. It’s about whether the Steam Deck could improve your gaming life. Stuck? Allow this article to assist.
In short, the Steam Deck is a handheld PC created by Valve that can run a lot of Steam games. It can also be configured to play Windows games.
The going rate for a Steam Deck is $399.
While many are certain they want a Steam Deck, others are debating whether it’s worthwhile.
To help you break down the good and the bad, we look at the pros and cons of the Steam Deck below.
The Pros for Steam Deck
Powerful Hardware
The Steam Deck has a distinct advantage over other handheld consoles such as the Nintendo Switch – the internal hardware is much more powerful. Check out the spec:
- 16GB of memory
- 4-core and 8-threaded ZEN 2 CPU at 3.5 GHz
- AMD RDNA 2 integrated GPU, 1 to 1.6 GHz
Steam Decks hardware puts it on par with top-performing consoles, PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.
Simple User Interface
There’s no need to fiddle with the manual to figure out how to use the Steam Deck. It has a straightforward and intuitive interface.
The usability of the Steam Deck is likened to Nintendo Switch and Xbox.
Sizeable Device
With dimensions of 11.7 x 4.6 x 1.9 inches, its size surpasses gaming and mobile gaming devices such as Nintendo switch lite, iPhone, and Android phones.
The size and build make it a sturdy device to transport and hold. And with its smart ergonomic design, it’s comfortable to play with.
The measurements allow the device to have a decent-sized built-in screen at 7 inches.
With a bigger screen, players can enjoy an immersive gaming experience.
Gaming Variety
As mentioned above, the amount of games available to play on the Steam Deck is incredible, not to mention the device can play games created for Windows too.
This point puts the Steam Deck a cut above game consoles such as PlayStation and Xbox.
Game Anywhere
A portable gaming device is arguably a must for those who love to game but are always on the go.
Be it commuting to school or work, sitting in the waiting area at the dentist, or accompanying your better half on a shopping trip.
Devices like the Steam Deck make dull moments in life fun.
Now for the cons…
Battery Life
The portability of the Steam Deck is a plus, but the downside is with only 8 hours of (light gaming) battery available, after some intense gaming on the go it will shut down.
So if you do get it, plug it in at any opportunity to keep the battery full.
Game Compatibility
So there are a variety of Steam games you can play but you can’t play all of them on this device. Simply put, not every Steam game is compatible with the Deck.
However, as time goes on, gaming developers are more likely to optimize games for this device.
More Expensive
With a retail price of $399, compared to other devices such as the Switch and the OLED model it’s a bit more expensive.
For instance, Switch OLED costs $349.99, and the original Switch is just $299.
On the other hand, the Steam Deck is still a decent price compared to buying a desktop or gaming laptop.
Conclusion
If you can look over the negatives, such as low battery life and limited access to compatible games on Steam. There are a few reasons to be excited about the Steam Deck. In summary:
- Its powerful hardware outshines both Nintendo Switches
- Steam Deck is essentially a portable PC for gaming
- The build is sturdy and it feels less delicate compared to other devices
The rest is down to a matter of preference. For instance, how much do you play and enjoy Steam Games? And is it enough that you want to play them when you’re not at home with access to a PC?
For more about gaming, check out what’s to come in the gaming world here.