Which Steam Deck variant should you buy in 2023?

If you're considering buying the Steam Deck for yourself, it's important to understand the different storage options available and choose the one that suits your needs best. The Steam Deck is a highly regarded handheld gaming device that offers great value for the money and has garnered a lot of attention for its portable gaming capabilities. Additionally, it has also gained popularity among Linux enthusiasts.

64GB eMMC

This variant uses eMMC (Embedded MultiMediaCard) storage, which is commonly found in low-end netbook laptops and some phones. While the term "embedded" typically implies that the drive is fused with the motherboard, this is not the case with the Steam Deck. eMMC drives are slower compared to NVMe drives, with maximum speeds reaching around 330MB/s for read and 200MB/s for write. However, if you have some technical know-how, there are ways to upgrade the storage on the 64GB variant. You can refer to a detailed guide for instructions on how to do it yourself. Alternatively, you can expand the storage using a MicroSD card if you're not comfortable with the DIY process.

256GB NVMe SSD

This variant comes with a faster NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) solid-state drive (SSD) with a storage capacity of 256GB. NVMe drives offer significantly higher speeds compared to eMMC drives. Even smaller-sized NVMe drives can achieve read and write speeds that are over 10 times faster than eMMC drives. The 256GB variant provides ample storage for your games and is a more affordable option compared to the 512GB variant.

512GB NVMe SSD

The 512GB variant also features an NVMe SSD but with a larger storage capacity of 512GB. In addition to the increased storage, this version also comes with an anti-glare screen. Furthermore, the 512GB variant includes an exclusive colored carry case, distinguishing it from the non-colored versions of the 256GB and 64GB models.

Should you upgrade the Steam Deck?

If you plan to upgrade your Steam Deck's storage in the future, it is recommended to consider doing so. Upgrading the storage can enhance your gaming experience by allowing you to carry more games and expand your emulation collection. For example, with a 1TB drive installed, you can have games like Final Fantasy XIV, the Dead Space Remake, and even both the upcoming remake and the original Resident Evil 4.

When it comes to choosing an SSD for the Steam Deck, one of the recommended options is Sabrent's SSD. While you may not achieve the advertised speeds within the Steam Deck itself, Sabrent's SSD is known for its ease of installation and availability.

Ultimately, the choice of which Steam Deck variant to buy depends on your budget, storage needs, and comfort level with potential DIY upgrades. The 64GB variant is suitable for those with technical expertise or willingness to upgrade the storage themselves, while the 256GB variant offers a good balance between storage capacity and affordability. The 512GB variant is the top-tier option with the added benefits of an anti-glare screen and an exclusive colored carry case.

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