Steam Deck, Valve's portable console-shaped computer, will have a new model with an OLED screen, a longer battery life, a slightly lower weight and improvements in the cooling system, among other new features.
The new version of Steam Deck arrives almost two years after the launch of the original model in February 2022. During this time, Valve's device has not only managed to set a trend by creating a new type of gaming hardware, but has also remained as the most popular within this segment.
The OLED screen is the main protagonist of this Steam Deck update, but it is not the only notable novelty. Compared to the LCD panel of the original model, the screen of this new version is made by Samsung and offers more vibrant colors, pure blacks and improved contrast. In addition, it is also larger, since it goes from 7 to 7.4 inches, increases its refresh rate from 60Hz to 90Hz and is compatible with HDR.
Another new feature has to do with autonomy. According to Valve itself, the battery lasts between 30% and 50%, something that has been confirmed by the first media outlets that have been able to analyze the device. This is the case of The Verge, which offers specific details about battery life depending on the demands of each game, and confirms this important improvement.
Also notable is the inclusion of Wi-Fi 6E, a standard that allows downloads “up to 3 times faster,” in the words of Valve; as well as a dedicated Bluetooth antenna, which should allow a more stable connection of various devices simultaneously.
It's not a substantial difference, but the Steam Deck OLED also weighs less. Specifically, 640 grams compared to the 669 of the original model. In addition, Valve also promises a less noisy and efficient ventilation system.
The new Steam Deck OLED is presented in two models, one with 512 GB of SSD storage and a cost of 569 euros, and another with 1TB and a price of 679 euros. The latter also incorporates anti-reflective glass.
On the other hand, Valve has also announced a price reduction on the original Steam Deck models. The 64 GB model costs 369 euros; the 256 GB one, 419 euros; and the 512 GB one, 469 euros. In addition, the American company has also announced that the 64 GB and 512 GB models of the original version will cease production when stocks run out.
