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Everything You Need To Know About Valve’s Steam Deck

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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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