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Valve is getting into the handheld gaming industry with its very own handheld console, the Steam Deck. The Steam Deck is a device that can run almost any game in your Steam Library. This console is designed similarly to the Nintendo Switch, but outclasses it in terms of specs in almost every way. In reality, the Steam Deck is not really a console, but a portable mini PC.
The Steam Deck possesses all the features a normal PC does. While the Steam Deck will be running on Steam’s own Linux-based operating system, consumers have the choice of changing their operating systems to Windows 10 if they would like to do so. Similar products such as the Nintendo Switch are limited to their respective OS and do not offer nearly as much freedom as the Steam Deck.
Students at AISG are excited about Steam Deck’s upcoming release. Ryan C., a junior at AISG and a console gamer said, “Honestly, I just hate the Nintendo Switch. Judging by how good the Steam Deck is looking, I won’t have to hear annoying switch fans go ‘Durrrr at least it’s portable’.”
Tyr B., another junior at AISG and an avid gamer said, “The steam deck looks sick! Even though I’m not getting it, it’s honestly pretty exciting. Whenever Valve releases something, whether it be a game or an innovation, it’s usually pretty big and impactful towards the gaming in general.”
Does the Steam Deck Have a Kickstand?
No, the steam deck does not include a kickstand. However, a kickstand may be included in the USB Type-C Deck dock that is sold separately. Whether or not the Deck dock includes a kickstand still remains unknown.
What Games From Your Steam Library Can Run On the Steam Deck?
Valve claims to be able to run the entire Steam Library without issue on the Steam Deck. However, it will likely not be able to run games well if the recommended specs are above the Steam Deck’s specs.
How Much Does The Steam Deck Cost?
The Steam Deck has three different versions based on their storage size:
- $399 for the 64 GB version
- $529 for the 256 GB version
- $649 for the 512 GB version
What Are The Specs?
| CPU | AMD APU Zen 2 |
| Core count | 4 cores 8 threads |
| Cpu clock speed | 2.4-3.5GHz |
| Gpu | 8 RDNA 2 CUs |
| RAM | 16 GB LPDDR5 onboard RAM (5500 MT/s quad 32-bit channels) |
| Storage | 64 GB eMMC (PCIe Gen 2 x1) 256 GB NVMe SSD (PCIe Gen 3 x4) 512 GB high-speed NVMe SSD (PCIe Gen 3 x4) |
| Display | 7-inch LCD touchscreen |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.0 (support for controllers, accessories and audio) |
| Resolution | 1200×800 |
| Refresh Rate | 60hz |
| Audio | Stereo Speakers, 3.5mm jack, dual mics, USB Type-C/Bluetooth |
| Connectivity | Dual-band Wi-Fi 2.4GHz and 5GHz, USB Type-C with DisplayPort 1.4 support |
| Battery | 40Whr battery. 2 – 8 hours of gameplay |
| Size | 298mm x 117mm x 49mm |
| Weight | 669 grams |
| Software | SteamOS 3.0 |
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