Significant Discounts on the Entry-Level Steam Deck
Valve currently offers outstanding discounts on the basic model of the Steam Deck with LCD display. You can save 25% on the 512GB variant, reducing its price to $336.75, while the 64GB model is available at a 15% discount, pricing it at $296.65. This promotion lasts until September 26 or until stock runs out for these phased-out options.
A Remarkable Opportunity
The original retail price for the 512GB (NVMe SSD) LCD Steam Deck was set at $449, meaning you can now save over $112. For context, its OLED counterpart with equivalent storage is priced at $549. The current deals on this slightly less premium but still impressive LCD version present a golden opportunity to dive into handheld PC gaming without overspending.
Specifications and Features
The LCD Steam Deck features a seven-inch screen with a resolution of 1200 x 800 pixels and boasts a refresh rate of up to 60Hz along with brightness reaching up to 400 nits. The enhanced glass finish in the higher-capacity model offers an anti-glare option that isn’t available in its smaller sibling; therefore, if both options fit your financial plan, opting for the former is an obvious choice for just $40 more.
Both devices include robust batteries rated at 40Wh with an estimated runtime of eight hours under ideal conditions; however, real-world usage reflects closer to approximately four and a half hours according to our assessments (you can extend battery life by dimming screen brightness and moderating refresh rates). A standard carrying case accompanies each model as part of their package.
A Value Proposition Explored
In her comprehensive review published by Engadget in early 2023, Jessica Conditt emphasized that this entry-level version provides exceptional value when juxtaposed against its more expensive OLED relative. Most popular games released today are categorized as either Verified or Playable on Steam Deck, ensuring compatibility for numerous gamepad-friendly titles).
The Verdict: Worth Considering?
While upgrading to the OLED system may be advantageous if your budget allows it, the current discount on this LCD format, especially now that prices have dropped by up to one-quarter off retail values—makes it an excellent introductory handheld gaming device notable for providing only marginally lesser performance compared to its pricier counterparts.
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This article first appeared in Engadget.
