The Steam Deck is THE handheld to buy. This is why.

The Steam Deck is one of the most popular handhelds of this year, but many people aren't sure if they should buy one. In this video, we cover some of the main reasons to buy Steam Deck if you are on the fence.
Dock: amzn.to/3tjGP8l
Camera: amzn.to/3REWpcj
Join Discord: / discord
Follow me: / takiudon
Disclaimer: This video includes affiliate links. Anything you purchase from those links helps support the channel.

[@TakiUdon]

Can't wait for the Steam Deck 2. Dock I used: amzn.to/3tjGP8l The Gundam skin: kzbin.infoUgkxorfi40Ut0pByc5JZJVFN_VYs0UIZ1_C6

[@TheNotoriousBaba]

Same here

[@lennier8344]

Yeahhh

[@blunderingfool]

The "threat" of a SD2 is what's making me unsure about buying one. If a SD2 us only, say, a year-ish out I'd wait, for example.

[@gthagamerpcking6317]

@@blunderingfool will be 2024

[@blunderingfool]

@@gthagamerpcking6317 Suppose I'm waiting for then, then.

[@Gamerlingual]

I’m one of the first to own a Steam Deck in Japan. People stare at me for long periods as I played it in the train. A few even thought it was a Switch. Bought for $320. I was very lucky and it works wonderfully. Edit: Well that was unexpected! Thanks for the thumbs up, all!

[@LukeCilia]

Same here but for Australia, used a reshipping service and have loved every minute of deck ownership.

[@umamifan]

Tell them that staring at others is impolite. Especially during a gaming session!

[@lemonov3031]

Japan seems to be allergic to Linux, so no wonder!

[@sirupybear4200]

How much disk space did you get?

[@BortaMaga]

What game did you play for them to stare at you?

[@StrikeWarlock]

This is probably the strongest endorsement I've seen for the Steam Deck thus far, considering your knowledge and experience with all other hand helds.

[@danh2716]

Right? This guy is going to make my wife so mad at me!

[@contytub]

@@danh2716 i just avoid watching videos of tech next to mine hehe... i need to upgrade soon my 64gb deck and a 1tb ssd isn't in the plan

[@TakiUdon]

@@danh2716 haha

[@figaro3468]

@@danh2716 was watching this, my wife came over and whispered into my ear " no steam deck for you" 😔

[@DrSwitchDisrespectParody]

Nintendo switch is garbage lmaoooooooooo

[@supermanwillkilusal]

I think the Steam Deck is the best thing to happen to indie devs in a while. I played most of my indie games on this thing that i had trouble getting into with my big desktop

[@seeibe]

So true! I often buy indie games just out of principle to support the creator, the Steam Deck actually gave me the opportunity to even play them!

[@sukruyildirim70]

@@seeibe is it worth buying only for that matter do you think?

[@seeibe]

@@sukruyildirim70 Sure. There are enough indie games out there to carry it. It really comes down to whether you enjoy the feel of the device.

[@emiliosanchez3309]

@@sukruyildirim70 if you have a backlog the 399 version seems worth it

[@dimes305]

Have you heard of the switch? I don’t know what world y’all PC gamers live in

[@antonio_carvalho]

There's another good reason why the Deck will keep getting good support. Valve earns with Steam sales, so they want the device to continue satisfying the user to encourage usage of the Steam service.

[@DFGdanger]

I liked the explanation in the beginning about the difference in available chips on the market. The other features mentioned like easy control customization and desktop mode have come in very handy.

[@amabonsu6493]

Have had the steam deck for 2 months but still find myself watching these videos

[@derp195]

The steam deck turned me into a pc gamer again. I just can’t do long gaming sessions anymore, so the sleep function and portability of the deck changed everything for me.

[@folksurvival]

Sounds like it will make it more difficult for you to quit gaming.

[@derp195]

@@folksurvival What a weird thing to say. Why would I want to stop doing something I enjoy, and why do you feel compelled to phrase it as if it’s an addiction? Why are you even here if that’s your mindset?

[@folksurvival]

@@derp195 "What a weird thing to say." Not really, no. You implied that the device was allowing you to fit in more gaming sessions to which I pointed out that doing such would only encourage more gaming.

[@derp195]

@@folksurvival With the presupposition that gaming is inherently bad, and something everyone should aim to quit. Yes, less of a barrier to play allows for more short sessions here and there. As an extremely busy person with side projects, a small business, and a family, I greatly appreciate something that allows me to still play video games during my short, sporadic windows of down time. What made your comment a weird thing to say was that you're commenting in a gaming community with the idea that gaming is akin to smoking or drinking too much. Again, why are you here if that's your mindset?

[@folksurvival]

@@derp195 "With the presupposition that gaming is inherently bad, and something everyone should aim to quit." Well yes, of course, they should. "...the idea that gaming is akin to smoking or drinking too much." Well it is, albeit in a slightly different way. So is watching porn, gambling, eating junk food etc.

[@Hollowdarling]

I was legitimately about to invest into a Switch OLED, but after hearing non stop about the Steam Deck and doing enough research and seeing this video, I'm sold, I'm buying steam deck instead. Although down the line I might buy a a used normal switch just to play Nintendo exclusives online with other switch users. Edit: Bought it. Best gaming and most innovative experience I've had since first trying the Wii. Every day I'm tinkering with the steam deck, and finding out something new that makes my gaming experience better. Like I know to the PC Mastercare this ain't shit, but being able to map multiple functions to a single button but also let you activate them under certain and different conditions, is honest some sorcery to me, it's so simple yet so genius. Like if you play Apex Legends on Steam deck on a gamepad, theres a solution to not being about to push to talk for mic. Dont get me started on the prices on games. 13 dollars for MK11 ultimate edition that currently retails at 60 bucks lmao. I can talk about this for hours lol.

[@zillo4449]

A complete wipeout lol. It even emulates switch so with the deck you basically have the switch. Not sure about it being able to play online with other switches though but who cares lolll

[@Hollowdarling]

@@zillo4449 You cant play online. And a lot of ppl care, this guy included haha. I love the SD obviously, but I still love and need the Switch. Hopefully one day they do what MS is doing and what Sony reluctantly took so long to do and let me officially play their first party games on PC so I can enjoy crossplay.

[@dimes305]

@@zillo4449 “A complete wipeout” Dude are you nuts the switch oled is WAY better

[@dimes305]

@@zillo4449 not only can you not play online there’s no cloud saves unless you have a switch the steam deck is garbage the switch probably sells more in one week than the steam deck in its entire lifetime

[@Schloopytoober]

@@dimes305 what the fuck are you talking about? Cloud saves for the steam steam deck washes the Nintendo switch in cloud saves. It automatically saves any of your progress in any game on Steam for free. Well, the Nintendo switch you have to pay for a Nintendo switch online online just to get cloud saves. Also, I’ve had the Nintendo switch since it’s launch and I can say for sure and let this steam deck is a shit ton better

[@n00buo]

Runs everything for 400€. No cons at all.

[@Sysilo]

My only con is it's size. I really want a vita sized handheld that can emulate up to ps2

[@holyflame2]

​@Sysilo Then go for Odin 2, much smaller compare to Steam Deck but powerful enough to run everything up to GameCube, PS2 and Switch emulators with no problem.

[@Sysilo]

@@holyflame2 maybe I'll look into it. Thanks!

[@Themeparkfish]

I think the most impressive thing about the deck is the ease of repair. Everything has a separate board and its connected to the console with screw other boards with ribbon cables. This is super uncommon for any handheld. I don't think any recent handheld is as easy to repair as the steam deck.

[@My_In-Ear_Monitor_Fetish]

my GPD Win 4 is easy to repair cracked screen just use a suction cup to pull out screen and replace it with oled one with smaller bezels

[@christianr.5868]

A surprisingly good use for the steam deck is blender. With the track pads and steam input being so ridiculously customizable. I can use blender on a device that I can chill in bed with, no mouse or keyboard required

[@bnr32jason]

Do you actually do that often? Do you do it to be productive? Or is it more of just that you can do it so you tried it out?

[@sahabatgamerID]

@@bnr32jason yes, interested in the answer. Can you be as productive compared to working in computer?

[@christianr.5868]

@@bnr32jason I've used blender on and off for years. But recently, I started wirking long hours and that makes it less appealing to sit at my desk afterwards. So I've been hoping for a blender ipad port so I can use it on the couch comfortably. But blenders open source so that's probably never gonna happen. But with the steam deck, it's gonna be the main way I use blender from now on. Like I said, steam input makes it possible for me to include every shortcut key I need. That combined with its portability makes it easy to model in bed. It'll take a bit to get used to the controls, but once you do. It's pretty fast

[@christianr.5868]

@@sahabatgamerID I wouldn't say it's more productive per say. But I'm the type of person that really appreciates convenience, especially when I comes to my platforms for creative work. So for me, I'm gonna get more done om the steam deck. It depends on if you're okay with getting used to the controls

[@bnr32jason]

@@christianr.5868 Are you talking about using Blender on the Steam Deck's screen? Or connecting it to a portable monitor sitting next to you? I can't imagine it will be at all productive trying to 3D render things on a 7" 1280x800 display.

[@filvaliulin]

Bought myself one as a first ever gaming PC. And this thing is amazing!

[@ghrayfahx]

My ultimate dream is that the SD2 uses the same form factor as the first. They could just upgrade the mobo and get gains. Then they could make that board upgrade available for those of us who are comfortable working on our systems, letting us turn a SD1 into a SD2.

[@ADreamingTraveler]

I just want a OLED screen in the new one and then it'd be absolutely perfect

[@dustojnikhummer]

Oh I would love to have just a motherboard replacement!

[@Deinorius]

You could sell your old SD and buy a SD2. I understand what you mean and I thought about this myself but then the old boards need to be sold and transplanted into other SD. I don't want to see old SD boards out of use. But yeah, the SD2 has to use the same form factor!

[@dustojnikhummer]

@@Deinorius Yeah I realized that as well. Framework at least made sure their boards could be used outside of the chassis.

[@SuperTort0ise]

@@dustojnikhummer turn your old SD MB into a console/mini PC too.

[@deanmoriarty6015]

the ergonomics of the steam deck are crazy. i was nervous it was going to be way too big, feel clunky, and be way too heavy. i figured i’d just have it docked all the time. then i actually got it, and it immediately fit well. comparing this to the switch which after 4 years of owning i still don’t feel comfortable playing portably

[@Visethelegend]

Funny how after the switch release I thought it was just a gimmick to play on home and off road but I find myself playing only on handheld mode even when I’m at home

[@raiusdaltar1483]

The Switch really requires a grip to play in handheld mode.

[@Drstrange3000]

@@Visethelegend I feel some level of satisfaction with people realizing how comfortable playing portable is when before everyone basically told me I'm wrong and portable devices like the Switch will never take off. I knew instantly the Steam Deck would be more comfortable than the Switch due to how it was shaped.

[@daisukegori2112]

It's far more comfy than the Switch. That thing hurts my hands.

[@MrMark1]

Switch has plenty of controller and grip options. You can't say it's not comfortable when you can use whatever you prefer. Same can't be done with steam deck

[@HShango]

You do not necessarily need a dock, you can get a dongle and just stick it in there and you can get a case for your SD with a kickstand that'll allow your SD to stand on it's own. That's what I did with my SD.

[@bnr32jason]

The issue with the dongles is for a good one they can be close to the price of an entry level dock and the dock is just so much nicer to look at and have somewhere to put the Deck.

[@mrwoodcat]

this is what I'd do if I ever get a deck just maybe beware to not stress the usb c port too much bcs of the dongle

[@ericsalidbar1693]

I dont think that’s possible the type c port is fucking legit and sturdy

[@hailgod1]

@@bnr32jason there are already third party docks that does the same thing for half the price. just takes a couple of mins googling.

[@bnr32jason]

@@hailgod1 did you mean to talk to me? I'm confused.

[@LaughingBearGames]

Just got my 512GB NVME version and I absolutely love the device. I mainly play older PC games and will use this for all my console style games going forward, but will keep the main gaming rig for my Total War and other keyboard/mouse games.

[@KASA852]

Just ordered… This video and the comments GETTIN ME SO EXCITED

[@PatchworkRose567]

I’m definitely planning on buying a mid range steam deck when I get the money. I have several games on steam that I can’t play on my pc that I can on my mac and vice versa so being able to play most of my library on one device is a big selling point for me.

[@StrikeWarlock]

No, go for the cheapest model if you can. You can exceed both the mid range Steam Deck and the Premium one by just paying $86 for a 512GB SSD and $6 on Antiglare screen covers.

[@silentgrind34]

Buy the cheapest one

[@Hollowdarling]

It literally bridges every sort of gaming in existence. You can play Nintendo games unofficially, you can play a bunch of PS and Xbox games officially meaning online functions, you can play PC games, mobile/android games and retro games with emulation. You can bring it on the go or connect it to a tv and play at home. And on top, you can play current gen games and you can use the steam deck as a real PC! It does everything. This is literally every gamers/tech's dream.

[@Roensmusic]

to be honest, i dont agree with the steam deck being seen as a handheld that can play switch games............... thats just straight out a crime. dont want to sound like someones grandmother here, ofcourse im a gamer myself, and ofcourse i also played roms. but hacking switch roms in this time of year, thats just too early. thats piracy in its top form. and its illegal. the roms i play are the old ones, from games that are not being sold in stores anymore, i play roms up to the Wii, but not from newer systems. actually i did own most games physically when i was young, and some games were hard to get in the place i grew up (for example StarFox adventures on gamecube) so thats why i turned to some roms. but i would personally never get a steam deck to play switch games on. just doesnt feel right, besides, all the work arounds you got to do, its just more legit to play Zelda on the console it is made for. i can play all zelda's on my pc also, but playing it on the switch feels just so much better, because then its like how the devs designed it to be, and when you use roms and hacks and whatever to make them work, its always somekind of fake/ not to mention missing textures and artifacts you can get. i just dont think its fair to compare. same like playing ps5 and xbox x games on pc/laptop, and then saying pc is better. its just a total different system that makes the experience around the game complete.

[@dimes305]

Thank you finally someone who makes sense

[@DriveCancelDC]

I'm traveling next month and trying to keep it light, I realised that instead of taking my laptop to copy/backup my GoPro footage, I can just copy the files to my deck using desktop mode via a USB reader. I'll skip taking my laptop! Such a versatile device. I imported one from the UK to Japan but still have my Japanese reservation (those have not shipped yet).

[@Atalas5]

I keep getting more and more tempted on the Steam Deck. All of it's competitors are unfavorably high in price in comparison, at least if you want similar or better performance. Then there's the fact I recently learned that through some software, you can use it like a Wii U gamepad while emulating Wii U games on your desktop (which, btw, would love to see a video on if it's up your alley).

[@Jose951Sanchez]

I agree this is cheaper than that onexplayer 1s 5700u or i7 1195 G7 ... I'll buy it at $599 for a 1.6 TeraFLOP gaming handheld that's a portable PS4 launched console in your hands! 😂 If it can play everything from Nintendo Switch Back Compat is a steal. Cause I haven't own a Nintendo since N64.. also wanna know if it can play all DS library, 3DS, GBA , GameCube, Wii, Wii U, .. PS1/PS2 , PSP PS vita is a no Brainer for 500 600 bucks usd Dock it up on a big screen got better hardware then a Switch..

[@Daytona_73]

Literally got my Steam Deck today, only took about 6 days from ordering to arrive. I'm new to PC gaming and recently purchased Metal Gear Solid V the Phantom pain for £3.99 off CD Keys, it looks and plays so good on the Steam Deck.

[@backpain100]

Mgsv is incredible. Playing it the deck is even better.

[@kakashisan4072]

Valve has done the justice to handheld gaming. Can't wait for Steam Deck 2!

[@bustergundo516]

Steam Deck 2?

[@My_In-Ear_Monitor_Fetish]

I wish they release a Steam Deck Mini as big as my GPD Win 4 but without the keyboard that adds to the bulk lol

[@TreePunchinForLife]

As someone who loves their deck, my main issue with it was QC. My first deck had numerous button issues so I got an RMA, and my replacement had the same exact issues, plus one new one. I didn't want to deal with RMA anymore so I opened it up, shaved some plastic off the case to fix a mushy trigger, used a shim to fix my loose bumper, and sanded down the stick housings so I wouldn't grind my sticks. Kinda sucks I had to go through this just to get a deck I feel I should have had out of the box. That being said, now that I have gone through the pain I am left with one of the greatest gaming handhelds of all time. I just really hope they improve the QC issues for a possible Steam Deck 2. No one should have to RMA 5 times or go through the lengths that I did just to be happy with their device.

[@SoundToxin]

I remember hearing about people doing similar modifications to the Nintendo 2DS when it came out. The buttons and things were often poorly constructed and people were cutting plastic and adding tape inside and such. I guess they had to save costs somewhere. At least the Deck is pretty repairable and well-documented.

[@PixelShade]

Awesome review! I completely agree with everything being said! One thing I can recommend if you are going to use the Steam Deck as your primary computer is to buy an external SSD together with a dock (or the JSAUX SSD dock). For me, I boot from the ext. SSD when I am working (using the fully fledged Linux distribution Manjaro). Because, even though SteamOS is great for gaming and general computing, it's rather limiting for professional use. Also having a clear distinction-, and being able to switch between "work environment" and "entertainment" is a great strategy to become more productive as well. The great side effect of replacing your work desktop with a Steam Deck is that it sips minimal amounts of power 1~10W. mostly hovering around 3watts in desktop mode, yet offering great performance for everyday use!

[@Eli4life]

Great idea! That's what I would do as well. Which version did you get?

[@PixelShade]

@@Eli4life I actually decided to go with the 64GB since it covers my gaming needs, and I could potentially upgrade it further down the line as I am comfortable with repairs. Currently ALL games are installed on a 512GB SD card, I mostly play indie games (29x installed), emulation (several 100x), older AAA/backlog titles (20x) and a couple of AAA titles are installed at a time (3x currently)... As you can see, you can fit quite a lot of games onto a 512GB SD card. The device is not particularly slower than the SSD when loading games or navigating in DeckUI (however, it is less snappy when doing multiple IO operations in desktop mode). But when I really need responsiveness from a desktop OS. I will still boot from an external SSD instead. :) This is limited to the interface. ~780MB/s for my external enclosure, but that's not really a problem, since access times are equally snappy and honestly offer 99.8% of the normal SSD experience. :)

[@connor4366]

my friend was diagnosed with leukemia the other day. im ordering him one of these as an early Christmas present for him to use in the hospital. it'll be perfect.

[@HShango]

I'm very fortunate since I'm from the UK and live there, when SD became available I bought it straight away and I'm already completing games that I bought long ago on steam and games that I've bought recently on steam as well as on my SD. I also agree the ergonomics on the SD is impressive, the feel is just from heaven.

[@mevoogle]

I might finally play skyrim when I get it on my birthday fr

[@goticogordo]

I ordered mine yesterday, I am now binging every steam deck video 😂😂 man I love portable consoles, I am a collector and steam deck a lovely new one to my collection

[@AlexPerez-bd9nc]

Dude, i have had mine for over two weeks i can say that the system is a beast and the best tech product i have bought in a long time.

[@6WaysToSomeday]

the bulkiness and no 1080p out is a deal-breaker for me, everyone else enjoy, happy gaming

[@brandon_nope]

It’s really not that bulky for me personally and you can output to even a 4K display if you really wanted to

[@6WaysToSomeday]

@@brandon_nope its still true 1280×800p even on an 8K display...but most ppl buy this for a handheld anyway. & Im sure retro consoles titles look great too

[@valren01]

Being able to pull out a gaming handheld device and play games during lunch break at work is indeed nice.

[@HShango]

Agreed, anywhere in my opinion is create to just be able to play PC games anywhere really.

[@colbyboucher6391]

Pull out of what? A backpack? I'd die of embarrassment bringing this bigass skateboard thing to work with me.

[@dimes305]

You act like the switch doesn’t exist what is wrong with y’all

[@Ahab2710]

@@dimes305 it exists but it sucks

[@dimes305]

@@Ahab2710 have you ever owned a switch

[@FaerieDust]

The Steam Deck is the ideal device for me - someone who was curious about video games but only liked playing on handhelds. Not interested enough to pay a ton for the more expensive PC handhelds, to buy a half-decent laptop (or desktop PC, which would take up permanent space on my desk) when I almost exclusively use my phone and tablet for everything anyway, and not interested enough to pay the Nintendo tax for Switch games. I bought Witcher 3 for Switch when I bought my Switch Lite, fell in love, and then promptly realized that 1) W1 and W2 weren't available for Switch, and 2) I could buy the whole trilogy for less than 20% of the Nintendo price of just W3. I will keep my Switch Lite for Nintendo exclusives and maybe some games I specifically want to casually play during shorter travel (my daily commute etc), since it's so much more portable. But the Deck is the device that allows me to explore gaming in a way I've never been able to before. It's powerful enough to let me play new games, even if not on super amazing mega settings but I come from the Switch Lite, so it's not like I have anything to compare to. It's small, so it doesn't take up unnecessary space in my relatively small apartment. And games are inexpensive enough, especially with Steam's sales, that I can try a wide variety without being disappointed if I've paid €60 for a meh game (though in that regard at least physical Switch games can be resold). It's not a perfect device - battery life can be on the short side sometimes, it doesn't have the same wow-performance as latest gen consoles, the bezels around the display are large enough to be annoying imo (I'd much rather have had a larger display), it's definitely too big to carry around in my daily bag... But if I wanted a perfect device I'd have to pay a hell of a lot more than €400 and it wouldn't have the software support that Steam OS has, and it wouldn't be as repairable as the Deck is. It's just hands down the best value for money on the market in so many ways.

[@MrLink129]

Bro, I love my deck. The granularity of it sells it for me. Forget about it. I have every system on my deck for 400$ +120 for the 1tb I swaped for the 64gb. Plus I do pc things on it. My PC is pissed at me cause I don't use it anymore even though it is superior to the deck. Nothing beats the suspend button mid game and picking it up right away later. This thing is a game changer. I LOVE MY DECK

[@Matt_19-89]

I like the steam deck, but I would like to have some headroom, while the APU undoubtedly is very capable I would wait a couple more years and buy either a revision 2 or a Steam Deck 2, and honestly I'd keep those 400 dollars for now, my 2080 super is showing its years a bit, and it won't hold on for long with my 2k/4K setup

[@pranze3484]

I'm an od beta contribuer, got a rk3326 I never played, a rk3566 I never play, since I got the deck I have 0 gas for anything else anymore and play it daily. It has changed absolutely everything, forever. It's an absolute marvel, from the oot port in glorious 16:9 60 fps, to ace combat 4, to Mario kart 8, to rdr2, to furi, Cuphead, Celeste, you name it. Just keep GoW 2018 for your UW 1440p rig don't bother, and enjoy every moment :)

[@ParabolaTool]

I don't own a steam deck but my Odin Lite has given me a similar experience with playing and really enjoying games on handheld that I didn't really feel like playing sitting at my PC

[@KyleRuggles]

Same! Have you tried Castor!? RGC did a video on it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJzIqH1tmd6lnc0 I'm LOVING my Odin base now, I can stream my games from my pc in a virtual machine and still have my pc able to use. That is a game changer for me. I'm playing PS3, Wii-U, Xbox etc and with streaming I'm easily getting 10 hours of play time. I don't think a steamdeck can last that long.

[@lucascarracedo7421]

@@KyleRuggles this is a good use case I see little people actually getting into. Running a VM to keep the remote host usable is awesome. In fact, for at home usage this is by far the best solution with any decent wifi performance.

[@KyleRuggles]

@@lucascarracedo7421 Yeah man! Like I see all these steamdeck video's, I haven't seen them really talk about using it outside of the home and the battery life. Then I see video's of "how to get the most out of this game on the steamdeck" and I'm like... why don't you just stream it from your pc? No need to fiddle around with settings to get the fps and graphics just right, no need to drain your battery, just stream the thing lol. Castor is AMAZING! I can't praise it more than I already have. A VM on your pc, which you can stream to and STILL use your pc? That's BIG! I see ETA's video's on these small form factor pc's with 24 cores! Like.. I see multiple pc's with all those cores! I'm even able to stream outside of my house, limit my video to 8mbit/s since I have a 30/10mbit cable connection, and with H265/HEVC it still looks sooo sharp at 1080p 60fps. And with moonlight, I don't feel any latency.. it's like I'm playing right on my Odin, natively. It's a game changer and I wish more people knew of this app.

[@lucascarracedo7421]

@@KyleRuggles Yes. Totally agree. I do this with ProxMox and a multi GPU system so every member of the family can run their own remote VM from any place they want. there's value in getting games to run properly on a device like the Deck or any other handheld of course. Sometimes the connection isn't ideal and for some games that's preferred. But for my particular use case streaming from my own systems covers at least 90% of my needs. While also getting much better performance and battery life. Sadly, people hear streaming and run away, not understanding that this is not the same as remote game streaming but is mostly happening locally.

[@bnr32jason]

@@KyleRuggles the Steam Deck can last 8-10 hours while Streaming in ideal situations. Mine actually lasted for just over 9 hours playing a Visual Novel game (Doki Doki Literature Club) while on a long international flight. I could have plugged it in, but I didn't want to, wanted to see what it could do when playing at super low TDP and GPU settings.

[@MoistPancakes]

I use my deck all the time. Sometimes, I even whip out my big deck in public. Played with my deck while waiting at the doctors office the other day.

[@bloepje]

I've never finished so many games as in the months that I have it, sitting next to my wife, compared to the rest of my life. After 9..12 hours working behind a computer, you want to sit next to your wife, her watching whatever she wants, and me playing games like Empyrion . About the number: a month ago it was stated on a kde talk that it was over a million. (KDE is the desktop part used on deck. There is a nice talk about it, describing how Valve started supporting them without revealing anything about the deck).

[@spaceghostcqc2137]

I've been committed to waiting for SD2 because I'd like an OLED or equiv, but the platform is clearly awesome.

[@KseRBanshee]

Don’t wait, get the 512GB version since the color is more saturated and not washed out. I have MacBook Pro, iPhone 14 Pro and the SD screen definitely holds its own, no compromise as far as my eyes can tell lol. I don’t understand why people keep asking for OLED when the screen is absolutely gorgeous

[@conza1989]

@14:49 Yes I think this is still perfectly solid advice, I followed it (inadvertently I'll admit). I'm from a region without the SteamDeck available for sale, I bought a used 512GB for the price of the 64GB, and I am perfectly happy with what I purchased,

[@monhi64]

Really caught me off guard that you think the controls of the steam deck are one of its strongest features especially over PC. This thing is massive/heavy for a controller, like it’s not heavy but it’s just heavy enough to be incredibly awkward feeling unless you rest you rest your hands on a table. You hold/use a switch right after a sesh and you might accidentally throw it across the room lmao

[@MIIIKE0083]

I am one of those people who unfortunately spent $850 on eBay to get a 512GB variant during the first month of its launch. Still to this day, I do not regret it. I love my Steam Deck so much. What I really want to do now is get a 2TB SSD internal storage, but I’m afraid I might mess up, lol.

[@wrightchance5891]

Check the interweb. Someone was going for 3TB in the steam deck. Your goal might not be that farfetched

[@lolcat]

you won't mess up if you remember to remove your microsd first. 2tb 2230 might be too expensive right now though

[@JW-um5pg]

I spent that much all in all on my Deck after buying more storage and accessories. Well worth it. If this thing was $1000 I would probably still considering buying it. Considering you can get a deck for $400... that price in insane.

[@aftonstjarna4530]

2230 2tb is not on the consumer market yet. I'd wait for it to hit regular stores for the pricing to go down.

[@graalcloud]

Sunk cost fallacy

[@BastetFurry]

The Steamdeck is a good battle station if you can live with some caveats. If you have some experience with Linux and you want to use the SD as your main battle station i would recommend installing a plain Arch and install just what you need from Valves repository, namely the Kernel and the sound settings. That way you have a classic Linux install where you can install stuff from the repository without having it deleted every update. Which is my main gripe with SteamOS. Yes, its noob friendly that you can't kill your install but it blocks more professional usage as a PC.

[@thetreeoutside]

That Gundam deck looks so good!

[@SilverScarletSpider]

it’s interesting. if you are more comfortable at a desk, then you don’t need a steam deck because when at a desk you will want an external monitor, a mechanical keyboard, a mouse, a dock, headphones, and better thermals. your steam deck will just turn into a gaming desktop with poor thermals. however, if you truly are a gamer that wants to be mobile: on the bed, on the couch, at dinner table, in public transit, on the plane the Steam Deck is poggers. it is a great value with 720p 60fps linux gaming performance comparable to low end $500 Gaming Laptops.

[@RichSmithson]

Im in the process of selling my Oled Switch to get a Steam Deck at the moment. Soon as i saw you can play all the switch games on the Deck i was sold. That and all the emulation is perfect for me even before i have my steam library to play.

[@cheezyfriez12]

Despite it's age, a 3ds is also quite a good pocketable option

[@bnr32jason]

I still use my DSi fairly regularly, I still have a decent sized backlog and emulating dual-screen systems is always a little janky IMO.

[@laststep56]

The 3ds might unironically be the best gaming machine ever made pound for pound.

[@slacker20012]

@@laststep56 lol

[@Adaephonable]

@@laststep56 What a strange joke.

[@graalcloud]

For the emulation and modding people I feel 3DS is still a much better option than Steam Deck. It's just way more practical and better designed in my opinion. If you can manage to get a dual IPS 3DS then take care of it.

[@CaleoGaming]

Would it be possible for me to use a capture card and somehow get a 1080p output? Because I was thinking of getting a steam deck so I can record indie games like Dead Cells, GRIME, Hades etc as well as emulated games of older generations (wii, wii U, PS2, PS1). Would it be a waste to get one or?

[@TheUncannyOne]

I love my 256 GB SteamDeck 🔥 I love the ergonomics of it & Emudeck is great, been playing GameCube/Dreamcast/3DS & PSP games perfectly

[@graalcloud]

You know what has even better ergonomics for playing 3DS games? 3DS.

[@TheUncannyOne]

@@graalcloud no… not really 💀

[@TheUncannyOne]

@@Snipeador The SteamDeck is touch screen? Lol & I have both the 3DS & SteamDeck & I love the ergonomics & you can do hacks/other things

[@TheUncannyOne]

@@Snipeador I get it, I love both honesty lol

[@SoundToxin]

@@Snipeador You can plug in a second screen (monitor or TV), and it does have a touchscreen. It lacks 3D, but a lot of people don't use that on the actual 3DS even. I've been playing through Pokemon Sun on a real 3DS recently and I never have the 3D on (not even sure if this game supports 3D, but I don't like the 3D, and I even have a New 3DS with the improved 3D).

[@robhulson]

Ooh! Ooh! I just ordered mine and it's coming next Tuesday! Watching this whole video right now.

[@srvuk]

Remember that the base Steam Deck is only $400 to some. Import duties raise it for others.

[@ramaluminus]

This is the sole reason that bugging me from picking up SD, in my country it got hiked to $600 for 64GB variant.

[@PokemonRules141]

I’ve been interested in the Steam Deck for a while because I like the idea of a portable device that I can pick up and play my PC Games on, and I also want portable mod support with some of them. Sometimes, I just find booting up my PC a little too much hassle to play my game, especially if I have to go into settings and configure it. I realize that the Deck won’t alleviate that problem but it will probably be better for gaming than my laptop due to performance and because my controllers can be iffy at times. And if that thing plays GameCube games, even better. Portable Pokemon Colosseum. But my main reason is definitely to play PC games with mods installed portably without booting up my computer.

[@moonlambo5229]

Ordered my Deck on a Saturday and had it in my hands Wednesday! Also I live in Canada and it was shipped from USA.

[@J3R3MI6]

Fuck it I’m getting one 😮‍💨

[@ehrenloudermilk1053]

Ive had my deck a few months now. I use it daily and love it

[@shig4238]

Bought mine for portable emulation and I can honestly say I made the right choice

[@colbyboucher6391]

How can you call this monster ""portable"" though

[@nari7849]

I am glad you put both reasons. After hearing both I've decided to get one. Thanks and subd.

[@lusterlessnova3199]

Bought myself the cheapest model, got a non-reflective screen protector, a 1tb 2230 SSD (Same form factor, and it was easy to put in thanks to an ifixit guide), and loaded up my entire emulation collection. Probably a bit overkill, but now I can re-play old games, and explore new ones while I sit in the doctor's office, while I'm in hospital, or just visiting friends/babysit. Even had a neat little talk about the Deck with someone when I happened to play something they knew. Easiest recommend in my life.

[@M_CFV]

Can you buy the HDD model and put that 2230 in?

[@Ray3D]

It's the perfect device for anyone that is willing to engage in research and the most fun is had when you Tinker Tamper and Tweak. It truly feels like personal console.

[@BananaPancake06]

I would love to buy one, but I just don't have the use for it. When I work I don't have the time to play of course, and when I get home I have my computer or my ps5. I rarely travel by train or bus or plane, and already have a switch in case..

[@andycarrillo48]

That drawing fresh! The cover of the joint

[@prw56]

I'm in the same situation as you, going through a very, very large backlog. For me its so appealing because I can pick it up, put it down, and move around so easily, and I can play while my TV is doing something else. I only take it outside the house if I'm going somewhere for an extended period of time, hours or days, not worth the risk imo to take it outside otherwise.

[@KyleRuggles]

I gotta admit, the steamdeck IS awesome, but that size, man.. It's just a tad too big for me to take on the bus or commuting.. I got an Odin, and I just stream all my ps3+ games, and it's portable, I love this thing! Especially now with Castor when I can stream my games from my pc using a VM but still be able to use my pc. You made me a super fan of the Odin, if it wasn't for you, I wouldn't have bought this. So again, THANK YOU!

[@bnr32jason]

I take my Steam Deck and play it on the bus/train almost every day when I commute, it's great.

[@KyleRuggles]

@@bnr32jason I'm sure it's great for you, but it's huge for me, for me. The weight, having to carry around a slightly larger backpack to accommodate it, can't exactly put it in a coat pocket. But that's me.

[@graalcloud]

Yeah and for emulation backlogs I feel like people might as well be better off with a Wii U over Steam deck. Neither of them can be practically portable, you're basically only going to be playing it at your house with the Steam Deck. Wii U can play Gamecube games, N64, DS, etc and it can do it quite a bit better and more accurately than Steam deck can with emulators. Also 3DS, same thing but plus it's very practically portable.

[@buntygirdhar]

I have seen hundreds of steam deck videos and this one is the most informative one. It solidified my decision to buy a Steam Deck for good reasons

[@zakyrath]

I'll wait for a steam deck mini. I absolutely hate the size of the thing and the stupid track pads, bad memories of the steam controller for me lol.

[@ibapreppie]

Got a gaming pc. Always on the go. Getting mine in a few days can't wait. Only issue I have is that bezel

[@bnr32jason]

I've really enjoyed my Steam Deck overall over this last ~10 months, but I'm ready to move on to something more premium (and yes, more expensive). I'll really miss the customized SteamOS interface, the user selectable refresh rate, and the peace of mind knowing parts are available if and when I need them. But you mentioned many of the things that are making me want to upgrade, mainly the screen and the performance ceiling. If there was a better IPS panel upgrade available along with an option to run the APU just a few watts higher, I would probably keep it, but with none of that being a feasible reality, I'm going to move on to something better for me. I'm really looking forward to following the Steam Deck's progress with SteamOS and other software/firmware updates. I bought the 512GB Steam Deck and if I was going to buy again today, I would buy the same one. I like just buying something and being able to leave the hardware alone for the most part, I don't want to take it apart to install a bigger SSD, new sticks, etc. I just want to buy something and play, so the 512GB was perfect for me. With that $650 price tag (plus tax), it's getting closer to the $1000 price tag of something like the Ayaneo 2 (thanks for the preview video on that one too!) which has more premium parts and finish while giving up the community support, low TDP performance, and SteamOS. The Steam Deck is what got me into handheld PC gaming, I only ever did consoles handheld before. Super happy that Valve came out with the Steam Deck, I'm hoping one day they'll offer a "Deck Pro" or just in the next model offer a little more performance, better screen, better sticks, etc. Can't wait to see what the future brings for handheld PC gaming either way, it's an exciting time to be in the space!

[@CrucialFlowResearch]

I have Steam Deck and GPD Win Max 2, you probably want a 6800U

[@Isaac_619_]

Good luck getting something from China

[@Isaac_619_]

@Kasar Hussain first off, I wasn't talking to you, second, I meant privacy wise and warranty wise also build wise

[@Isaac_619_]

@Kasar Hussain you know I'm right towl head

[@Genethagenius]

Love the Gundam artwork! Planning on getting a Steam Deck for Christmas!

[@TorchicyGaming]

I don't own one, but I know I definitely want one someday. It sounds great to play steam/PC games on mobile. The only thing keeps me on the Nintendo Switch is because of the Nintendo exclusive games. Like Splatoon:p

[@gc3k]

"Winning team product." I've heard that argument many times before but never heard of that term until now

[@LunalynDragon]

I work the night audit shift at a hotel and I get *so* much use out of my Steam Deck there during downtime

[@moxietiger]

this guy always speak the truth and not being sellout are why i am keep coming back listening on your video. great job my friend!

[@jasonwelsh417]

What is that Zelda-ish looking game at 7:05 where you are killing the slimes?

[@tomcat3900]

I have two Steam Decks wrapped up and in the closet waiting for my sons to open on Xmas. I hope they let their old dad play too :)

[@The4gotNdeath]

I haven’t felt a single but of regret since I received my steam deck

[@Purfunxion]

I'm getting the Deck eventually myself. I have to ship it to a friend in Sweden because Norway isn't applicable, but the hassle will be worth it!!!

[@dragonfistX200]

I think they don't let you get more performance in docked mode because raising the TDP will increase heat as well

[@TheCrispyChip]

I take m y deck and switch to work for breaks, they both fit in my laptop backpack perfectly with my laptop, mouse, keyboard, headset, full recording hardware set, etc xD

[@panamike6178]

I don't care that people gave it a 7/10 overall when released, I've had mine since July and it's a technological masterpiece. I've been able to play and beat, GTA IV, DS 2, DS3, ER, MGS V, Jedi Fallen Order, endless hours of FUT on FIFA 22, Metro Exodus.... This is a crazy time we're in. It's a handheld console, that's on par with next gen.... haha Ok not next gen but same level as a PS4 or Xbox one. I just think it's crazy.

[@rooislangwtf]

I'd probably buy one when I eventually travel more again, but I also need to wait till Valve actually sells it in my country (there's a variety of reasons why I don't want to import one)

[@Rykst3r]

The more I see videos related to the Steam Deck, the more I want one. Since I can't homebrew my Switch, I might as well get one that's capable of so much more.

[@claytonbaker5858]

When they come out with a better screen, maybe, still a few things I am iffy on.. Good start..

[@jimjuliengadiano9562]

Just received my steamdeck today. Can't wait have my unboxing theraphy!

[@Crusader6809]

I would also recommend cutting out an steam deck with paper like just the size i did this and now. I know that it will fit my hands

[@oo--7714]

Eh I'm waiting for the ayaneo air plus mainly because the price is great at 269$ converted to £ 226.53 its awsome and the performance for the i3 1215u is pretty good the igpu runs circles on my amd vega 8 (2000/3000) laptop that I bought 3 years ago for over double the price.

[@berrievanderlinden3797]

Just bought one a few minutes ago. Looking forward to it!

[@agamer2680]

I love the steam deck currently playing gamepass cloud on it. And it is amazing! And I play assassins creed odyssey which is installed on the steam deck. Runs amazing. It’s a dream device, it’s unreal to play open world games with this device!

[@sesu6743]

This is such a well rounded review, i really appreciate the honesty and depth of information you give us.

[@ImperfectionistGaming]

holy shit, that clear casing, wow

[@victorsoto4821]

Well, I'm convinced, going to be a early xmas present for myself, appreciate the vid.

[@unknownbeastgaming7264]

Adding thermal pads to the Vram, changing the pads on the vrms and on apu heatsink and as well as changing the paste allows it to boost its clocks higher.

[@AngelCopout]

This man legit didn't link the Gundam 00 SD skin he used. Hopefully, it's easy to find. Edit: Oh wait, he made a post about it. Luckily, I know my way around reshipping from Taobao. FeelsGoodMan

[@ryukaze20]

The ONLY reason I am unable to purchase a Steam Deck is due to the fact that I can't purchase it in my country so I'm kinda stuck with different alternative. Happy enough with the Odin Base that I have and my only gripes with it is that I wished I pushed through and bought the Pro instead.

[@ADreamingTraveler]

You could always buy it from a 3rd party. Prices on the reseller market is close to msrp now

[@Greydawg]

Wow. Exceptional writing here outright. Well done. Instantly subscribed. Cheers, Taki.

[@bland9876]

I was taking some PC IT classes and you have to take screenshots of what you are doing so you needed Windows.

[@ADreamingTraveler]

If you're even thinking slightly about getting one just do it. Trust me you won't regret it.

[@Cruxis_Angel]

Tempted to get it 100% only for emulation. The thought of having almost all PS and Nintendo games on one device with portability is extremely tempting

[@TheCoolDave]

I'll tell you, if you were to do that, it would be fine for that. It works really well, EMUDECK sets everything up. It's very easy and tons of KZbin videos if you get stuck and for $400, you're playing Switch and PS3 games on emulation... yea, well worth the $500 (64gb model and a 1tb drive, swap the 64gb for 1tb and profit) The 1tb upgrade (2230 M.2) will fit TONS of emulation games never mind anything else...

[@Isaac_619_]

I use mine mainly for emulation, get it, you will not regret it at all, this is my dream device I been wanting forever, playing gc, PS2, etc games is just amazing

[@spencerbobo484]

Do it! You will not regret it :)

[@OzzyMcBean]

I always see the 'boost in performance when docked' as a throttle in performance when on battery instead. I like how there is no boost as it makes me feel like I'm getting the maximum performance possible when only on the battery. Surely there's no boost you could do to performance when docked if your battery was suitable enough to output that same power requirement? Fair enough it might not last very long, but I always considered the Switch to be throttling the performance when on battery, rather than boosting it when docked.

[@M_CFV]

Trust me, as someone with a hacked switch, if you try and overclock to docked levels while in handheld mode, the console gets extremely hot. Way too hot