Steam Deck

Valve's Steam Machine series of gaming computers using Linux-based SteamOS was introduced in 2015, which worked their way into the conception of the Steam Deck. Valve quietly pulled back on it by April 2018, but stated they remained committed to providing some type of open-hardware platform.{{Cite web |last=Phillips |first=Tom |date=April 4, 2018 |title='It's true Steam Machines aren't exactly flying off the shelves' |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2018-04-04-its-true-steam-machines-arent-exactly-flying-off-the-shelves |access-date=April 4, 2018 |website=Eurogamer |archive-date=December 7, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181207105453/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2018-04-04-its-true-steam-machines-arent-exactly-flying-off-the-shelves |url-status=live }} Steam Deck designer Scott Dalton said "there was always kind of this classic chicken and egg problem with the Steam Machine", as it required the adoption of Linux by both players and game developers to reach a critical interest in the machines to draw manufacturers in making them.{{Cite web |last=Marks |first=Tom |date=July 30, 2021 |title=Valve Explains How The Failure of Steam Machines Helped Build The Steam Deck |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-valve-explains-how-it-learned-from-past-mistakes |access-date=July 30, 2021 |website=IGN |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320055430/https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-valve-explains-how-it-learned-from-past-mistakes |url-status=live }} The lack of Linux game availability during the lifetime of Steam Machines led Valve to invest development into Proton, a Linux compatibility layer to allow Windows–based games to be run on Linux without modification.

Some of the early prototypes of Valve's Steam Controller, also released in 2015, included a small LCD screen within the middle of the controller which could be programmed as a second screen alongside the game that the user was playing. One idea from this prototype was to include the Steam Link, a device capable of streaming game content from a computer running Steam to a different monitor, here routing that output to the small LCD on the controller. This was later considered by Valve a very early concept behind the Steam Deck. Furthermore, their experience with trying to convince other manufacturers to produce Steam Machines led Valve to realize that it was better to develop all their hardware internally. Dalton said, "More and more it just became kind of clear, the more of this we are doing internally, the more we can kind of make a complete package." Rumors that Valve was working on a portable gaming unit had emerged in May 2021, based on updates made within the Steam code pointing towards a new "SteamPal" device, and comments made by Gabe Newell related to Valve developing games for consoles. Ars Technica had been able to confirm that new hardware was in development at Valve.{{Cite web |last=Mackovech |first=Sam |date=May 25, 2021 |title=Exclusive: Valve is making a Switch-like portable gaming PC |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2021/05/exclusive-valve-is-making-a-switch-like-portable-gaming-pc/ |access-date=July 15, 2021 |website=Ars Technica |archive-date=July 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716082418/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2021/05/exclusive-valve-is-making-a-switch-like-portable-gaming-pc/ |url-status=live }}

Valve revealed the Steam Deck on July 15, 2021. The Deck, existing in three different models based on internal storage options, was shipped starting in February 2022 in North America and Europe, with other regions to follow throughout the year.{{Cite web |last=Peters |first=Jay |date=July 15, 2021 |title=Valve's gaming handheld is called the Steam Deck and it's shipping in December |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/7/15/22578783/valve-steam-deck-gaming-handheld-pc |access-date=July 15, 2021 |website=The Verge |archive-date=July 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716070029/https://www.theverge.com/2021/7/15/22578783/valve-steam-deck-gaming-handheld-pc |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Peters |first=Jay |date=November 10, 2021 |title=Steam Deck launch delayed by two months |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/11/10/22774888/steam-deck-delayed-two-months-february-2022-launch-shipping |access-date=November 10, 2021 |website=The Verge |archive-date=November 13, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211113043604/https://www.theverge.com/2021/11/10/22774888/steam-deck-delayed-two-months-february-2022-launch-shipping |url-status=live }} Valve's CEO, Gabe Newell, said of the Steam Deck's approach, "As a gamer, this is a product I've always wanted. And as a game developer, it's the mobile device I've always wanted for our partners."{{Cite web |last=Schreier |first=Jason |date=July 15, 2021 |title=Nintendo Switch Gets New Rival With Valve's Portable Steam Console |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-07-15/nintendo-switch-gets-new-rival-with-valve-s-portable-console |access-date=July 16, 2021 |website=Bloomberg News |archive-date=November 27, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221127072916/https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-07-15/nintendo-switch-gets-new-rival-with-valve-s-portable-console |url-status=live }} According to Newell, they wanted to be "very aggressive" on the release and pricing strategy as they considered the mobile market as their primary competitor for the Deck. However, their focus was on the unit's performance; Newell stated, "But the first thing was the performance and the experience, [that] was the biggest and most fundamental constraint that was driving this."{{Cite web |last=Bailey |first=Kat |date=July 15, 2021 |title=Gabe Newell: Hitting Steam Deck Price Was 'Painful' but 'Critical' |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-price-valve-gabe-newell-400-dollars-painful-but-critical |access-date=July 15, 2021 |website=IGN |archive-date=July 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716113821/https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-price-valve-gabe-newell-400-dollars-painful-but-critical |url-status=live }} Newell recognized that the base pricing was somewhat lower than expected and "painful", but necessary to meet the expectation of gamers who would want the Deck. Newell continued that he believed this was a new product category of personal computer hardware that Valve and other computer manufacturers would continue to participate in if the Steam Deck proved successful, and thus it was necessary to keep the unit's price point reasonable to demonstrate viability.{{Cite web |last=Chalk |first=Andy |date=July 15, 2021 |title=Gabe Newell expects Steam Deck to sell 'millions of units' but the pricing was 'painful' to pick |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/gabe-newell-expects-steam-deck-to-sell-millions-of-units-but-the-pricing-was-painful-to-pick/ |access-date=July 15, 2021 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=July 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716070837/https://www.pcgamer.com/gabe-newell-expects-steam-deck-to-sell-millions-of-units-but-the-pricing-was-painful-to-pick/ |url-status=live }} The openness of the system was also a key feature according to Newell, as that is a defining "superpower" of the personal computer space over typical console systems. Newell did not want to have any limitations on what the end user could do with the hardware, such as installing alternate non-Steam software on it.{{Cite web |last=Skrebeles |first=Joe |date=July 28, 2021 |title=Gabe Newell Pushes Back Against Closed Platforms, Says Openness is 'PC's Superpower' |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-openness-superpower-closed-platforms-gabe-newell |access-date=July 29, 2021 |website=IGN |archive-date=November 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116152131/https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-openness-superpower-closed-platforms-gabe-newell |url-status=live }}

As of December 2022,{{Update inline|date=August 2023}} Valve was pursuing improvements on the Steam Deck, including per-game "power profiles", and some other performance improvements, as well as evaluating a second generation Steam Deck. Valve was also considering bringing some of the Steam Deck technology into a new Steam Controller 2.{{Cite web |last=Hollister |first=Sean |date=December 15, 2022 |title=Valve answers our burning Steam Deck questions — including a possible Steam Controller 2 |url=https://www.theverge.com/23499215/valve-steam-deck-interview-late-2022 |access-date=December 20, 2022 |website=The Verge |archive-date=January 9, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230109235431/https://www.theverge.com/23499215/valve-steam-deck-interview-late-2022 |url-status=live }} Valve announced two new Deck models to be available for purchase in November 2023, both with OLED screens, extended battery capacity, and improved cooling features, among other hardware modifications to improve connectivity and efficiency; however, no changes were made to the Deck's overall performance. These models replace two of the existing models.{{cite web | url = https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/a-new-oled-version-of-the-steam-deck-has-been-announced/ | title = A new OLED version of the Steam Deck has been announced | first = Chris | last = Scullion | date = November 9, 2023 | accessdate = November 9, 2023 | work = Video Games Chronicle | archive-date = August 24, 2024 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240824035621/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/a-new-oled-version-of-the-steam-deck-has-been-announced/ | url-status = live }} Hardware designers for Valve stated that they would have wanted to include OLED screens for the original launch models, but at the time, OLED screens of sufficient size and quality did not yet exist on the market, and they would have had to delay release by 12 to 18 months if they went on that route.{{cite web | url = https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2023/11/why-we-had-to-wait-nearly-two-years-for-an-oled-steam-deck/ | title = Why we had to wait nearly two years for an OLED Steam Deck | first = Kyle | last = Orland | date = November 9, 2023 | accessdate = November 10, 2023 | work = Ars Technica | archive-date = August 24, 2024 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20240824035620/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2023/11/why-we-had-to-wait-nearly-two-years-for-an-oled-steam-deck/ | url-status = live }} Alongside the announcement of the OLED models, Valve stated they are working towards a Steam Deck 2 with overall system improvements including the CPU and GPU chips, but these systems will likely not be ready for two to three years.{{cite web | url = https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-09/new-steam-deck-with-oled-screen-more-storage-coming-from-valve | title = Valve Announces New Steam Deck With OLED Screen, More Storage | first = Jason | last = Schreier | date = November 9, 2023 | accessdate = November 10, 2023 | work = Bloomberg News | archive-date = November 9, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20231109200520/http://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2023-11-09/new-steam-deck-with-oled-screen-more-storage-coming-from-valve | url-status = live }} System designer Lawrence Yang said they wanted to wait for a "generational leap" of CPUs with better computing power without significant power requirement increases before implementing a new version of the Steam Deck.{{cite web | url=https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2024/10/valve-still-waiting-on-a-generational-leap-for-steam-deck-2-but-its-coming/ | title=Valve still waiting on a 'generational leap' for Steam Deck 2 - but it's coming | date=October 15, 2024 }}

The original Steam Deck was launched in February 2022 and included a custom AMD APU based on their Zen 2 and RDNA 2 architectures, named Aerith, after the Final Fantasy VII character Aerith Gainsborough.{{Cite web |last=Hollister |first=Sean |date=November 12, 2021 |title=Steam Deck: Five big things we learned from Valve's developer summit |url=https://www.theverge.com/22779252/steam-deck-things-we-learned-from-valve-developer-summit |access-date=November 12, 2021 |website=The Verge |archive-date=February 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220207230831/https://www.theverge.com/22779252/steam-deck-things-we-learned-from-valve-developer-summit |url-status=live }} The CPU runs a four-core/eight-thread unit and the GPU runs on eight compute units with a total estimated performance of 1.6 TFLOPS. Both the CPU and GPU use variable timing frequencies, with the CPU running between 2.4 and 3.5 GHz and the GPU between 1.0 and 1.6 GHz based on current processor needs. Valve stated that the CPU has comparable performance to Ryzen 3000 desktop computer processors and the GPU performance to the Radeon RX 6000 series. The Deck includes 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM in a quad-channel configuration, with a total bandwidth of 88 GB/s.{{Cite web |last=Loeffler |first=John |date=July 21, 2021 |title=Steam Deck gets a spec update, and it's good news for gamers |url=https://www.techradar.com/news/steam-deck-gets-a-spec-update-and-its-good-news-for-gamers |access-date=July 22, 2021 |website=TechRadar |archive-date=March 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230316224310/https://www.techradar.com/news/steam-deck-gets-a-spec-update-and-its-good-news-for-gamers |url-status=live }}

File:Close view of Steam Deck D-pad and analogue stick (cropped).jpg

The Deck's main unit is designed for handheld use. It includes a {{convert|7|in|mm|adj=on}} touchscreen LCD display with a 1280×800 pixel resolution with a fixed 60 Hz refresh rate; games are configured to use vertical synchronization where possible. The unit's input set features two thumbsticks, a directional pad, ABXY buttons, two shoulder buttons on each side of the unit, four additional buttons on the rear of the unit, as well as two trackpads under each thumbstick.{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Bo |date=July 15, 2021 |title=Steam Deck: The First Hands-On With Valve's Handheld Gaming PC |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-hands-on-impressions-details-valve-handheld-gaming-pc |access-date=July 15, 2021 |website=IGN |archive-date=July 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716113026/https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-hands-on-impressions-details-valve-handheld-gaming-pc |url-status=live }} The thumbsticks and trackpads use capacitive sensing, and the unit further includes a gyroscope to allow for more specialized controls on the handheld mode. The unit also includes haptic feedback.

The Deck supports Bluetooth connectivity for input devices, including common game controllers, and includes integrated WiFi network support to meet IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac standards,{{Cite web |last=Phillips |first=Tom |date=July 15, 2021 |title=Valve announces Steam Deck, a £349 handheld PC |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2021-07-15-valve-announces-steam-deck-a-gbp349-handheld-pc |access-date=July 15, 2021 |website=Eurogamer |archive-date=July 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716063002/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2021-07-15-valve-announces-steam-deck-a-gbp349-handheld-pc |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=McCaffery |first=Ryan |date=July 15, 2021 |title=Steam Deck FAQ: Valve Answers the Biggest Questions |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-valve-faq-big-questions-answered |access-date=July 15, 2021 |website=IGN |archive-date=July 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716073539/https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-valve-faq-big-questions-answered |url-status=live }} stereo sound out via a digital signal processor, an integrated microphone and a headphone jack, a 40 watt-hour battery, which Valve estimates that for "lighter use cases like game streaming, smaller 2D games, or web browsing" can last between seven and eight hours. Valve also estimated that by keeping frame rates to around 30 frames per second (FPS) more intensive games such as Portal 2 could be played for five to six hours. The system's software includes an optional FPS limiter that balance a game's performance to optimize battery life.{{Cite web |last=Hollister |first=Sean |date=July 25, 2021 |title=The Steam Deck has an 'optional built-in FPS limiter' for better battery life |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/7/25/22593079/valve-steam-deck-fps-limiter-target-performance-battery-life |access-date=July 25, 2021 |website=The Verge |archive-date=March 21, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230321124319/https://www.theverge.com/2021/7/25/22593079/valve-steam-deck-fps-limiter-target-performance-battery-life |url-status=live }} At release, Steam Decks were only manufactured in a black casing to reduce the complexity of production, though Valve stated that they have considered introducing other case colors or themes in the future.{{Cite web |last=Wickens |first=Katie |date=August 6, 2021 |title=Valve says there is 'tons of opportunity' around different colours for future Steam Decks |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/valve-steam-deck-colour-scheme-discussions-interview-coomer/ |access-date=August 6, 2021 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=November 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116152132/https://www.pcgamer.com/valve-steam-deck-colour-scheme-discussions-interview-coomer/ |url-status=live }} Valve partnered with iFixit to provide replacement parts for users.{{Cite web |last=Fenlon |first=Wes |date=February 15, 2022 |title=Valve is partnering with iFixit to sell Steam Deck replacement parts |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/valve-is-partnering-with-ifixit-to-sell-steam-deck-replacement-parts/ |access-date=February 15, 2022 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=February 16, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220216000841/https://www.pcgamer.com/valve-is-partnering-with-ifixit-to-sell-steam-deck-replacement-parts/ |url-status=live }}

The unit shipped in three models based on internal storage options. The base model includes a 64 GB eMMC internal storage unit, running over PCI Express 2.0 x1. A mid-tier model includes 256 GB of storage through an NVMe SSD device, while the high-end unit includes a 512 GB NVMe SSD storage unit, with the latter two both shipping with drives that run PCI Express 3.0 x4. All 3 SKUs use the same M.2 2230 interface for internal storage. Valve stated that the built-in storage is not meant to be replaceable by end-users, though can be replaced as necessary for repair.{{Cite web |last=Moore |first=Bo |date=July 21, 2021 |title=Steam Deck SSD is Upgradeable, But It Won't Be Easy |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-ssd-upgradeable-valve |access-date=July 21, 2021 |website=IGN |archive-date=May 29, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230529085717/https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-ssd-upgradeable-valve |url-status=live }} Additional storage space is available through a microSD card slot, which also supports microSDXC and microSDHC formats.

As Valve considered options for bringing a handheld device to market, they set a priority that the device had to be able to play nearly the entirety of the Steam game catalogue, and rejected possible hardware that moved away from the standard x86-based processing structure that would have been easier to implement in handheld form but would have limited what games would be available. Only through recent discussions with AMD and their current product lines was Valve able to identify a technical approach that would meet the goal of a handheld device capable of playing all Steam games without overtaxing the processor unit.{{Cite web |last=Castle |first=Katherine |date=August 24, 2021 |title=The Steam Deck interview: Valve's designers on all things hardware, software, and knowing when to stop |url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/the-steam-deck-interview-valves-designers-on-all-things-hardware-software-and-knowing-when-to-stop |access-date=August 24, 2021 |website=Rock Paper Shotgun |archive-date=November 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116152129/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/the-steam-deck-interview-valves-designers-on-all-things-hardware-software-and-knowing-when-to-stop |url-status=live }} The developers considered the Steam Deck to be future-proof. While the specifications are modest compared to high-end gaming computers, they felt that the performance was at a good place that would be acceptable for many years, while still looking at newer software improvements, such as the addition of AMD's FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR).{{Cite web |last=Purslow |first=Matt |date=July 29, 2021 |title=Valve Says Steam Deck Is Future Proof, But Could Add New Generations |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/valve-steam-deck-future-proof-new-generations |access-date=July 29, 2021 |website=IGN |archive-date=November 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116152130/https://www.ign.com/articles/valve-steam-deck-future-proof-new-generations |url-status=live }} Though they do not have any current designs for a successor, Valve stated that there would likely be future iterations of the hardware in years to come, but the company expects the timing of releases to depend on the current state of processor technology and handheld device limitations rather than a regular upgrade cycle.

Two new models were released on November 16, 2023.{{cite web | url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/the-steam-deck-oled-is-out-now-and-ready-to-ship-immediately | title=The Steam Deck OLED is out now and ready to ship immediately | website=Rock, Paper, Shotgun | date=November 16, 2023 | last1=Archer | first1=James | access-date=November 16, 2023 | archive-date=November 16, 2023 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231116222812/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/the-steam-deck-oled-is-out-now-and-ready-to-ship-immediately | url-status=live }} These models, with 512 GB and 1 TB of internal storage come in to replace the previous top of the line LCD variant. The 64 GB and 512 GB original units are now discontinued, with the 256 GB LCD version becoming the new base model. The new model upgrades include a larger {{convert|7.4|in|cm}} OLED 90 Hz display, Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 support, a battery with an estimated 25% improvement in capacity, and improved cooling.{{cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/23951655/steam-deck-oled-review | title = Steam Deck OLED review: better, not faster | first = Sean | last = Hollister | date = November 9, 2023 | accessdate = November 9, 2023 | work = The Verge | archive-date = November 9, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20231109181334/https://www.theverge.com/23951655/steam-deck-oled-review | url-status = live }} The OLED deck includes a revised APU based on 6 nm processor production named Sephiroth, also based on the Final Fantasy VII character.{{cite magazine | url = https://www.gamesradar.com/steam-deck-oled-kills-the-originals-aerith-processor-with-a-sephiroth-upgrade-as-valve-flexes-its-final-fantasy-7-fandom/ | title = Steam Deck OLED kills the original's Aerith processor with a Sephiroth upgrade as Valve flexes its Final Fantasy 7 fandom | first = Dustin | last = Bailey | date = November 10, 2023 | accessdate = November 10, 2023 | magazine = Games Radar | archive-date = November 10, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20231110191045/https://www.gamesradar.com/steam-deck-oled-kills-the-originals-aerith-processor-with-a-sephiroth-upgrade-as-valve-flexes-its-final-fantasy-7-fandom/ | url-status = live }} In addition, a limited edition of the 1 TB model was released in North America exclusively, which has translucent plastic casing and selected orange-colored components.{{cite web | url = https://www.polygon.com/23952634/steam-deck-oled-limited-edition-translucent | title = Translucent Steam Deck OLED is a threat to financial responsibility | first = Chris | last = Plante | date = November 9, 2023 | accessdate = November 12, 2023 | work = Polygon | archive-date = November 12, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20231112153314/https://www.polygon.com/23952634/steam-deck-oled-limited-edition-translucent | url-status = live }}{{cite web | url = https://www.pcgamer.com/the-steam-decks-new-clear-plastic-limited-edition-is-giving-me-overpowering-oled-envy-but-i-cant-keep-blowing-money-on-these-things/ | title = The Steam Deck's new clear plastic limited edition is giving me overpowering OLED envy, but I can't keep blowing money on these things | first = Ted | last = Litchfield | date = November 9, 2023 | accessdate = November 12, 2023 | work = PC Gamer | archive-date = November 11, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20231111202604/https://www.pcgamer.com/the-steam-decks-new-clear-plastic-limited-edition-is-giving-me-overpowering-oled-envy-but-i-cant-keep-blowing-money-on-these-things/ | url-status = live }}

A dock unit was released on October 6, 2022.{{Cite web |last=Peters |first=Jay |date=October 6, 2022 |title=Valve's Steam Deck Dock is now available to order |url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/10/6/23391245/valve-steam-deck-dock-reservation-cost-price |website=The Verge |access-date=October 6, 2022 |archive-date=October 9, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221009170314/https://www.theverge.com/2022/10/6/23391245/valve-steam-deck-dock-reservation-cost-price |url-status=live }} The dock unit can be connected to an external power source to power the Deck, and to an external monitor via either HDMI or DisplayPort protocols to route output from the Deck to that monitor. Though limited by the processor speed, the display output from the Deck via the dock can reach as high as 8k resolution at 60 Hz or 4k resolution at 120 Hz; this resolution boost can also be achieved by attaching the Deck directly through a USB to HDMI adapter without the use of the docking station. There is no other change in performance of the Steam Deck whether docked or when used in portable mode.{{Cite web |last=Ridley |first=Jacob |date=August 8, 2021 |title=The Steam Deck will not boost performance while docked |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/uk/steam-deck-dock-performance/ |access-date=August 8, 2021 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320055438/https://www.pcgamer.com/uk/steam-deck-dock-performance/ |url-status=live }} With SteamOS update 3.5.5, the dock unit was also made to support variable refresh rate monitors.{{cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964870/steam-deck-steamos-3-5-5-stable-update | title = A hefty stable Steam Deck update gives the Dock a brand-new feature | first = Sean | last = Hollister | date = November 16, 2023 | accessdate = November 16, 2023 | work = The Verge | archive-date = November 17, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20231117021928/https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/16/23964870/steam-deck-steamos-3-5-5-stable-update | url-status = live }} The dock also supports Ethernet network connectivity and support for USB connections for controllers or other input devices. The Deck can also work with any third-party docking station that supports similar types of interfacing for portable devices. External GPUs are not officially supported,{{Cite web |date=2022-02-28 |title=Steam Deck :: FAQ |url=https://www.steamdeck.com/en/faq |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220228070503/https://www.steamdeck.com/en/faq |archive-date=28 February 2022 |access-date=2022-02-28}} although testing via the M2 slot has demonstrated that eGPUs are capable of running when connected to the Deck.{{Cite web |last=Hollister |first=Sean |date=April 13, 2022 |title=Someone plugged an entire 4K desktop graphics card into the Steam Deck |url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/13/23023839/valve-steam-deck-egpu-external-amd-rx-6900-xt-4k-eta-prime |website=The Verge |access-date=December 2, 2022 |archive-date=December 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221202225548/https://www.theverge.com/2022/4/13/23023839/valve-steam-deck-egpu-external-amd-rx-6900-xt-4k-eta-prime |url-status=live }}

File:SteamOS 3.0 neofetch screenshot.png showing Steam Deck specification]]

Steam Deck runs SteamOS version 3, based on the Arch Linux operating system. While SteamOS had been previously developed for Steam Machines using Debian Linux, Valve stated that they wanted to use a rolling upgrade approach for the Deck's system software, a function Debian was not designed for, but which is a characteristic of Arch Linux.{{Cite web |last=Dexter |first=Alan |date=August 9, 2021 |title=This is why Valve is switching from Debian to Arch for Steam Deck's Linux OS |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/this-is-why-valve-is-switching-from-debian-to-arch-for-steam-decks-linux-os/ |access-date=August 9, 2021 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=May 26, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230526185646/https://www.pcgamer.com/this-is-why-valve-is-switching-from-debian-to-arch-for-steam-decks-linux-os/ |url-status=live }}

An application programming interface (API) specific for the Steam Deck is available to game developers, allowing a game to specify certain settings if it is being run on a Steam Deck compared to a normal computer.{{Cite web |last=Ridley |first=Jacob |date=August 6, 2021 |title=Valve is creating a Steam Deck API for devs to quickly optimise games |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/valve-steam-deck-api-optimisation/ |access-date=August 6, 2021 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=January 28, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230128165951/https://www.pcgamer.com/valve-steam-deck-api-optimisation/ |url-status=live }} Within the Steam storefront, developers can populate a special file depot for their game with lower-resolution textures and other reduced elements to allow their game to perform better on the Steam Deck; Steam automatically detects and downloads the appropriate files for the system (whether on a computer or Steam Deck) when the user installs the game.

File:Steam Deck Steam UI.jpg

The Steam client on the Deck features a revised interface and functions different from the desktop client. Unlike Steam's Big Picture mode which was designed for use on television screens, which was treated as a separate software branch within Valve, the Deck version of the Steam client stays consistent with the desktop version, adding functions and interface elements to make navigating through Steam easier with controller input, and indicators typical for portable systems such as battery life and wireless connectivity. Valve replaced the previous Big Picture mode in Steam with one based on the Steam Deck user interface in February 2023.{{Cite web |last=Prescott |first=Shaun |date=July 20, 2021 |title=Steam's Big Picture mode will be replaced by Steam Deck's UI |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/steams-big-picture-mode-will-be-replaced-by-steam-decks-ui/ |access-date=July 20, 2021 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=July 2, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220702062626/https://www.pcgamer.com/steams-big-picture-mode-will-be-replaced-by-steam-decks-ui/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Wales |first=Matt |date=February 1, 2023 |title=Steam Big Picture's Steam-Deck-inspired UI overhaul finally gets its full release |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/steam-big-pictures-steam-deck-inspired-ui-overhaul-finally-gets-its-full-release |access-date=February 1, 2023 |website=Eurogamer |archive-date=February 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230202021106/https://www.eurogamer.net/steam-big-pictures-steam-deck-inspired-ui-overhaul-finally-gets-its-full-release |url-status=live }} The version of Steam on the Deck otherwise supports all other functions of Steam, including user profiles and friends lists, access to game communities, cloud saving, Steam Workshop support, and the Remote Play feature.{{Cite web |last=Marshall |first=Cass |date=July 15, 2021 |title=The cheapest Steam Deck has a great price, but you're gonna need more storage |url=https://www.polygon.com/22579004/steam-deck-storage-space-big-games-indie-titles |access-date=July 15, 2021 |website=Polygon |archive-date=July 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210716070807/https://www.polygon.com/22579004/steam-deck-storage-space-big-games-indie-titles |url-status=live }}

Remote Play allows the Steam Deck to be used as a controller for a game running on a computer, providing additional control options beyond traditional keyboard and mouse or common controller systems. The Steam software on the Deck also supports suspending a game in progress, a feature considered by Valve to be core to the Deck.{{Cite web |last=Marks |first=Tom |date=July 19, 2021 |title=Steam Deck: How SteamOS Bridges the Gap Between Console and PC |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-os-ui-system-software-bridges-the-gap-between-console-and-pc |access-date=July 19, 2021 |website=IGN |archive-date=June 19, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230619081833/https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-os-ui-system-software-bridges-the-gap-between-console-and-pc |url-status=live }} Otherwise, games that do not take advantage of the Steam Deck API have the handheld's controller input automatically converted for them. For example, the touch-sensitive controllers on the Deck translate input appropriately for games that typically rely on keyboard and mouse controls. Valve added to Steam's current approach to cloud saving with the introduction of Dynamic Cloud Sync in January 2022. Prior cloud functionality only synchronized game saves after the user has exited a game; developers can enable Dynamic Cloud Sync to use cloud saving while the game is running, making this feature more amenable for portable use on the Steam Deck.{{Cite web |last=Mackovich |first=Sam |date=January 24, 2022 |title=Steam Deck will get the trippiest cloud-save functionality we've ever seen |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2022/01/valve-updates-steams-cloud-save-system-to-make-steam-deck-more-intriguing/ |access-date=January 24, 2022 |website=Ars Technica |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320055430/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2022/01/valve-updates-steams-cloud-save-system-to-make-steam-deck-more-intriguing/ |url-status=live }}

{{clear}}

The Deck displays compatible games from the Steam storefront. Games developed for Linux run natively. The SteamOS software includes support for Proton, a compatibility layer that allows games developed for Windows to be played on the Linux-based SteamOS.{{Cite web |last=Duckett |first=Chris |date=July 16, 2021 |title=Steam Deck is an AMD-powered handheld PC from Valve that runs KDE on Arch Linux |url=https://www.zdnet.com/article/steam-deck-is-an-amd-powered-handheld-pc-from-valve-that-runs-kde-on-arch-linux/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |website=ZDNet |archive-date=February 16, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220216094409/https://www.zdnet.com/article/steam-deck-is-an-amd-powered-handheld-pc-from-valve-that-runs-kde-on-arch-linux/ |url-status=live }} According to ProtonDB, a community-run database that compiles information on game compatibility of Steam games within Linux using Proton, several of Steam's more popular game releases were not yet compatible with Proton primarily due to anti-circumvention and anti-cheat controls or digital rights management (DRM). Valve stated they were working with vendors of these middleware solutions to improve Proton support while also encouraging Linux-specific versions to be developed.{{Cite web |last=Clayton |first=Natalie |date=July 16, 2021 |title=Unless something changes, Steam Deck won't run Destiny, Apex, PUBG or Siege |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/unless-something-changes-steam-deck-wont-run-destiny-apex-pubg-or-siege/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=April 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230402124325/https://www.pcgamer.com/unless-something-changes-steam-deck-wont-run-destiny-apex-pubg-or-siege/ |url-status=live }} Epic Games' Easy Anti-Cheat, one of the more popular anti-cheat options for developers, was made available for macOS and Linux systems in September 2021, which Epic stated that developers could easily transition for the Proton layer.{{Cite web |last=Hollister |first=Sean |date=September 23, 2021 |title=One of the Steam Deck's biggest hurdles just disappeared: EAC has come to Linux |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/23/22690670/epic-eac-anti-cheat-linux-valve-steam-deck-support-games |access-date=September 23, 2021 |website=The Verge |archive-date=September 23, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210923235332/https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/23/22690670/epic-eac-anti-cheat-linux-valve-steam-deck-support-games |url-status=live }} Valve worked with Epic over the end of 2021 to make the transition of Easy Anti-Cheat to Proton simple for developers.{{Cite web |last=Blake |first=Vikki |date=January 22, 2022 |title=Steam Deck can now support games with Easy Anti-Cheat |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2022-01-22-steam-deck-can-now-support-games-with-easy-anti-cheat |access-date=January 22, 2022 |website=Eurogamer |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320055431/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2022-01-22-steam-deck-can-now-support-games-with-easy-anti-cheat |url-status=live }} Another popular anti-cheat solution, BattlEye, also affirmed their software was ready to work with the Proton layer and only required developers to opt-in to enable it.{{Cite web |last=Chalk |first=Andy |date=2021-09-25 |title=BattlEye anti-cheat confirms Steam Deck support |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/battleye-anti-cheat-confirms-steam-deck-support/ |access-date=2021-09-25 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320055440/https://www.pcgamer.com/battleye-anti-cheat-confirms-steam-deck-support/ |url-status=live }} Valve stated that in testing games otherwise currently available on Linux or compatible with the Proton layer, they had yet to find a game that failed to meet a minimum 30 frames-per-second performance on the handheld, a performance metric comparable to the consoles of the eighth generation.{{Cite web |last=Weatherbed |first=Jess |date=July 23, 2021 |title=Valve claims the Steam Deck can handle any game you throw at it, including AAAs |url=https://www.techradar.com/news/valve-claims-the-steam-deck-can-handle-any-game-you-throw-at-it-including-aaas |access-date=July 23, 2021 |website=TechRadar |archive-date=March 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230316221444/https://www.techradar.com/news/valve-claims-the-steam-deck-can-handle-any-game-you-throw-at-it-including-aaas |url-status=live }} The Proton layer includes support for AMD's upscaling technology FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR); while Proton also supports Nvidia's DLSS upscaling solution, it is not compatible with the Deck.{{Cite web |last=Willetts |first=Samuel |date=November 25, 2021 |title=Proton now officially supports Nvidia DLSS, but it won't come to Valve's Steam Deck |url=https://www.pcgamesn.com/steam-deck/proton-dlss-support |access-date=November 25, 2021 |website=PCGamesN |archive-date=November 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211125174337/https://www.pcgamesn.com/steam-deck/proton-dlss-support |url-status=live }}

Due to potential confusion on game compatibility, Valve introduced a process in October 2021 by which they brought in additional staff to review games on Steam to make sure a game is fully playable on the Steam Deck. Games that are confirmed to be compatible with the Steam Deck, including those with Proton and any middleware DRM solutions, that by default meet minimum performance specifications, are marked as "{{visible anchor|Verified}}". Games that may require some user tinkering with settings, such as having to use a system control to bring up the on-screen keyboard, are tagged as "Playable". Another category, "Unsupported", are games that Valve has tested to not be fully compatible with the Steam Deck, such as VR games, games using Windows-specific codecs that have not yet been made compatible with Proton or software apps. These ratings are to change over time as both the Steam Deck software improves as well as updates made by developers to games to improve compatibility with the Steam Deck software.{{Cite web |last=Archer |first=James |date=October 18, 2021 |title=Exclusive: Here's how you'll know which games will run on Valve's Steam Deck |url=https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/steam-deck-compatibility-interview |access-date=October 18, 2021 |website=Rock Paper Shotgun |archive-date=October 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211018182004/https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/steam-deck-compatibility-interview |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Orland |first=Kyle |date=January 21, 2022 |title=Here's why some games aren't "verified" for Steam Deck compatibility |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2022/01/heres-why-some-games-arent-verified-for-steam-deck-compatibility/ |access-date=January 21, 2022 |website=Ars Technica |archive-date=June 9, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230609193413/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2022/01/heres-why-some-games-arent-verified-for-steam-deck-compatibility/ |url-status=live }}

Users download games onto the Steam Deck to store on either the internal storage or SD card, each storage device treated as a separate Steam Library for games. This allows SD cards with different Steam Libraries to be swapped in and out. Valve is exploring the ability to pre-load games on an SD card outside of the Deck, such as through a personal computer.{{Cite web |last=Jimenez |first=Jorge |date=July 23, 2021 |title=Valve explains how removable Steam Libraries will work on Steam Deck |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/valve-explains-how-removable-steam-libraries-will-work-on-steam-deck/ |access-date=July 23, 2021 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=June 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230601161101/https://www.pcgamer.com/valve-explains-how-removable-steam-libraries-will-work-on-steam-deck/ |url-status=live }} The ability to download games onto the Steam Deck from a local network Steam installation was added in February 2023.{{Cite web |last=Bonifacic |first=Igor |date=February 18, 2023 |title=Steam now allows you to copy games to Steam Deck and other PCs over a local network |url=https://www.engadget.com/steam-now-allows-you-to-copy-games-to-steam-deck-and-other-pcs-over-a-local-network-174444502.html?src=rss |access-date=February 18, 2023 |website=Engadget |archive-date=February 18, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230218175942/https://www.engadget.com/steam-now-allows-you-to-copy-games-to-steam-deck-and-other-pcs-over-a-local-network-174444502.html?src=rss |url-status=live }} While the Deck was designed for playing games on the Steam storefront, desktop mode allows for installation of third-party storefronts like Epic Games Store, Ubisoft Connect, or Origin.{{Cite web |last=Gartenberg |first=Chaim |date=July 15, 2021 |title=How does Valve's Steam Deck compare to the Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X, and PlayStation 5? |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/7/15/22578917/valve-steam-deck-nintendo-switch-xbox-series-x-ps5-spec-comparison |access-date=July 16, 2021 |website=The Verge |archive-date=November 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116152129/https://www.theverge.com/2021/7/15/22578917/valve-steam-deck-nintendo-switch-xbox-series-x-ps5-spec-comparison |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Dawe |first=Liam |date=2022-02-25 |title=Steam Deck desktop mode plus other stores — Epic Games Store |url=https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2022/02/steam-deck-desktop-mode-plus-other-stores-like-the-epic-games-store/ |access-date=2022-03-04 |website=GamingOnLinux |language=en |archive-date=August 24, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240824035623/https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2022/02/steam-deck-desktop-mode-plus-other-stores-like-the-epic-games-store/ |url-status=live }} It is possible to replace SteamOS with a different operating system entirely or set up multi-booting.{{Cite web |last=Geblick |first=Jordan |date=September 22, 2021 |title=Valve answers all your burning Steam Deck questions in new FAQ |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/valve-answers-all-your-burning-steam-deck-questions-in-new-faq/ |access-date=September 22, 2021 |website=GamesRadar |archive-date=May 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230514203927/https://www.gamesradar.com/valve-answers-all-your-burning-steam-deck-questions-in-new-faq/ |url-status=live }} It is also possible to use Microsoft Edge for Xbox Cloud Gaming, allowing those with Xbox Game Pass subscriptions access to that catalogue of games.{{Cite web |last=Robinson |first=Andy |date=August 14, 2021 |title=Phil Spencer has been testing Steam Deck and says Xbox games 'work well' |url=https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/phil-spencer-has-been-testing-steam-deck-and-says-xbox-games-work-well/ |access-date=August 14, 2021 |website=Video Games Chronicle |archive-date=March 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230316221444/https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/phil-spencer-has-been-testing-steam-deck-and-says-xbox-games-work-well/ |url-status=live }} Newell stated that Valve would support Microsoft in bringing Xbox Game Pass to Steam and Steam Deck if they want that route.{{Cite web |last=Fenlon |first=Wes |date=February 25, 2022 |title=Valve has no plans for a 'Steam Pass,' but would help Microsoft put Game Pass on Steam |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/valve-has-no-plans-for-a-steam-pass-but-would-help-microsoft-put-game-pass-on-steam/ |access-date=February 25, 2022 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=February 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220225223900/https://www.pcgamer.com/valve-has-no-plans-for-a-steam-pass-but-would-help-microsoft-put-game-pass-on-steam/ |url-status=live }} With the system's open nature, users have also been able to add emulators to run games that users own from other consoles or computer systems.{{cite web | url = https://www.pcgamer.com/steam-deck-emulation-installation/ | title = The Steam Deck is already the emulation system of my dreams | first = Wes | last = Fenlon | date = February 25, 2022 | accessdate = November 10, 2023 | work = PC Gamer | archive-date = November 9, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20231109011000/https://www.pcgamer.com/steam-deck-emulation-installation/ | url-status = live }}

The Deck's operating system can also be launched into desktop mode, which uses the KDE Plasma desktop environment with an immutable file system.{{Cite news |last=Machkovech |first=Sam |date=25 February 2022 |title=A brief tour of the Steam Deck's Linux implementation |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2022/02/linux-on-steam-deck-what-you-need-to-know-what-currently-works/ |access-date=29 December 2024 |work=Ars Technica}} A range of third-party software tools have been developed to bring additional utility to the device, typically installed through the desktop mode on the deck. Examples include SteamOS plugin loader Decky,{{Cite web |last=Cantisano |first=Timi |date=2023-01-21 |title=How to install plugins on Steam Deck using Decky Loader |url=https://www.xda-developers.com/how-install-decky-loader-steam-deck/ |access-date=2023-04-30 |website=XDA Developers |language=en |archive-date=April 30, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230430063044/https://www.xda-developers.com/how-install-decky-loader-steam-deck/ |url-status=live }} emulation manager EmuDeck{{Cite web |last=Kuhnke |first=Oisin |date=April 6, 2022 |title=EmuDeck on Steam Deck makes emulating much more streamlined |url=https://www.nme.com/news/gaming-news/emudeck-on-steam-deck-makes-emulating-much-more-streamlined-3199489 |website=NME |access-date=December 2, 2022 |archive-date=November 14, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221114155142/https://www.nme.com/news/gaming-news/emudeck-on-steam-deck-makes-emulating-much-more-streamlined-3199489 |url-status=live }} and the batocera.linux distribution.{{Cite web |last=Cawley |first=Christian |date=September 22, 2022 |title=New Batocera Steam Deck-Ready Build Released |url=https://gamingretro.co.uk/new-batocera-steam-deck-ready-build-released |access-date=July 9, 2023 |archive-date=July 9, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230709050917/https://gamingretro.co.uk/new-batocera-steam-deck-ready-build-released/ |url-status=live }}

The Steam Deck was used as a remote control for animatronics at Walt Disney World.{{cite web | url = https://www.pcgamesn.com/steam-deck/star-wars-droids-disney | title = Disney's Steam Deck controlled droids are coming back to Galaxy's Edge | first = Niall | last = Walsh | date = April 5, 2024 | accessdate = December 15, 2024 | work = PCGamesN }} It was also used for remote-operated gun turrets by Ukrainian forces defending positions during the Russian invasion of Ukraine.{{cite web | url = https://www.pcgamer.com/ukraines-army-is-experimenting-with-using-steam-decks-to-remote-control-gun-turrets/ | title = Ukraine's army is experimenting with using Steam Decks to remote-control gun turrets | first = Andy | last= Chalk | date = May 3, 2023 | accessdate = December 15, 2024 | work = PC Gamer }}

Pre-orders for the Steam Deck were opened a day after its announcement. Pre-orders were limited to those with Steam accounts opened before June 2021, to prevent resellers from depleting stock and making the device more difficult to purchase. First-day pre-order reservations through the Steam storefront briefly crashed the servers due to the demand. By September 2021, development kits for the Steam Deck were shipping to developers.{{Cite web |last=Campbell |first=Ian Carlos |date=September 14, 2021 |title=Valve's Steam Deck is now real enough to send to developers |url=https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/14/22673732/valve-steam-deck-dev-kits-shipping |access-date=September 14, 2021 |website=The Verge |archive-date=November 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116152131/https://www.theverge.com/2021/9/14/22673732/valve-steam-deck-dev-kits-shipping |url-status=live }} For the planned release in Asian regions, Valve worked with Komodo to help with local production, localization, and distribution support.{{Cite web |title=Steam Deck Comes to Japan, South Korea, Taiwan & Hong Kong (SteamDeck booklet) |url=http://media.steampowered.com/apps/valve/2022/steamDeck_booklet_EN.pdf |website=Steam |access-date=August 26, 2022 |archive-date=August 26, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220826050351/http://media.steampowered.com/apps/valve/2022/steamDeck_booklet_EN.pdf |url-status=live }}

The Steam Deck was released on February 25, 2022, in North America and the European regions.{{Cite web |last=Dawe |first=Liam |date=2022-02-25 |title=The Steam Deck has released, here's my initial review |url=https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2022/02/steam-deck-initial-review/ |access-date=2022-02-25 |website=GamingOnLinux |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Larabel |first=Michael |date=2022-02-25 |title=For Linux Enthusiasts Especially, The Steam Deck Is An Incredible & Fun Device |url=https://www.phoronix.com/scan.php?page=article&item=steam-deck-steamos-linux |access-date=2022-02-25 |website=Phoronix |language=en |archive-date=February 25, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220225200913/https://www.phoronix.com/scan.php?page=article&item=steam-deck-steamos-linux |url-status=live }} In Europe, it retailed from €419 onwards, between {{£|349–569|link=yes}} in the United Kingdom, from 4,300 kr in Denmark{{Cite web |title=Ny Steam Deck har OLED-skærm med HDR-support |url=https://www.flatpanels.dk/nyhed.php?subaction=showfull&id=1699616862 |access-date=2025-02-07 |website=FlatpanelsDK}} and between 3,987–4,219 zł in Poland.{{Cite news |title=Steam Deck oficjalnie w Polsce. Można już kupić sprzęt Valve |url=https://polygamia.pl/steam-deck-oficjalnie-w-polsce-mozna-juz-kupic-sprzet-valve,6915640960248480a |archive-url=http://web.archive.org/web/20241006222720/https://polygamia.pl/steam-deck-oficjalnie-w-polsce-mozna-juz-kupic-sprzet-valve,6915640960248480a |archive-date=2024-10-06 |access-date=2025-02-07 |work=Polygamia |language=pl-PL}} As part of the Steam Deck's launch, Valve released Aperture Desk Job, a spinoff game in the Portal series, for free on March 1, 2022, available to all Windows and Linux/SteamOS users. The game is a de facto technology demonstration designed to show off the features of the Steam Deck, though it is still playable with an external controller.{{Cite web |last=Hollister |first=Sean |date=February 25, 2022 |title=Valve made a bite-sized new Portal game for the Steam Deck |url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/2/25/22951072/valve-portal-steam-deck-aperture-desk-job |access-date=February 25, 2022 |website=The Verge |archive-date=March 1, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220301213556/https://www.theverge.com/2022/2/25/22951072/valve-portal-steam-deck-aperture-desk-job |url-status=live }} To assist in developing and testing software for the Steam Deck, Valve released SteamOS Devkit Client and Server under open-source licenses.{{Cite web |last=Dawe |first=Liam |date=2022-03-04 |title=Valve open sources SteamOS Devkit Client for Steam Deck |url=https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2022/03/valve-open-sources-steamos-devkit-client-for-steam-deck/ |access-date=2022-03-06 |website=GamingOnLinux |language=en |archive-date=April 9, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409122218/https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2022/03/valve-open-sources-steamos-devkit-client-for-steam-deck/ |url-status=live }} Drivers for Windows are provided by Valve and AMD, but Valve does not provide support for them.{{Cite web |last=Dawe |first=Liam |date=2022-03-10 |title=Windows drivers roll out for Steam Deck but Valve won't support it |url=https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2022/03/windows-drivers-roll-out-for-steam-deck-but-valve-wont-support-it/ |access-date=2022-03-11 |website=GamingOnLinux |language=en |archive-date=April 14, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240414210447/https://www.gamingonlinux.com/2022/03/windows-drivers-roll-out-for-steam-deck-but-valve-wont-support-it/ |url-status=live }} During the first few days of release, Newell himself directly delivered some of the first Steam Deck units to residents in the Seattle area.{{cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/tldr/2022/3/1/22956123/gabe-newell-valve-steam-deck-hand-delivery | title = Watch Valve's Gabe Newell deliver Steam Decks to mostly confused customers | first = Jon | last = Porter | date = March 1, 2022 | accessdate = July 8, 2023 | work = The Verge | archive-date = July 8, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230708181321/https://www.theverge.com/tldr/2022/3/1/22956123/gabe-newell-valve-steam-deck-hand-delivery | url-status = live }}

Due to its popularity, some pre-order purchasers were informed that later shipments of the 64 GB model and 256 GB NVMe models would be in Q2 2022 and the 512 GB NVMe model by Q3 2022.{{Cite web |last=Yin-Poole |first=Wesley |date=July 17, 2021 |title=Steam Deck expected order availability now Q1 2022 (64GB) and Q2 2022 (256GB/512 GB) |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2021-07-17-steam-deck-expected-order-availability-now-q1-2022-64gb-or-q2-2022-256gb-512gb |access-date=July 17, 2021 |website=Eurogamer |archive-date=March 21, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220321054341/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/2021-07-17-steam-deck-expected-order-availability-now-q1-2022-64gb-or-q2-2022-256gb-512gb |url-status=live }} Valve informed pre-purchasers in November 2021 that due to the ongoing global chip shortage, the device would fail to ship by December and instead would ship in February 2022, retaining the same order for delivery based on pre-order placement.

By June 2022, Valve stated they were able to double the number of Steam Decks shipping out each week, helping to meet the initial reservations,{{Cite web |last=Jimenez |first=Jorge |date=June 27, 2022 |title=Valve is ramping up Steam Deck production as Q3 reservation emails go out this week |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/steam-decks-production-has-outperformed-valve-estimates-so-its-shipping-units-out-early/ |access-date=October 6, 2022 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=October 7, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221007001851/https://www.pcgamer.com/steam-decks-production-has-outperformed-valve-estimates-so-its-shipping-units-out-early/ |url-status=live }} and by August 2022, Valve's production was outpacing expectations, allowing them to send out Steam Decks to consumers that were originally anticipated to ship in the final quarter of the year.{{Cite web |last=Jimenez |first=Jorge |date=August 27, 2022 |title=Steam Deck's 'production has outperformed' Valve estimates, so it's shipping units out early |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/steam-decks-production-has-outperformed-valve-estimates-so-its-shipping-units-out-early/ |access-date=October 6, 2022 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=August 24, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240824035621/https://www.pcgamer.com/steam-decks-production-has-outperformed-valve-estimates-so-its-shipping-units-out-early/ |url-status=live }} Valve was able to fulfil all reservations by October 2022, opening the Steam Deck to purchase without reservation, though Valve tentatively will return to a reservation system should demand be too high.{{Cite web |last=Clark |first=Mitchell |date=2022-10-06 |title=The Steam Deck is now available with no reservations required (mostly) |url=https://www.theverge.com/2022/10/6/23391396/steam-deck-available-buy-now-reservations |access-date=2022-10-06 |website=The Verge |language=en-US |archive-date=August 24, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240824035621/https://www.theverge.com/2022/10/6/23391396/steam-deck-available-buy-now-reservations |url-status=live }} In December 2022, the Steam Deck was officially released for sale in Asia.{{cite news |last= Bahr |first= Syazwan |date= 1 December 2022 |title= Steam Deck Officially Available In Asia This Month |url= https://sea.ign.com/steam-deck/192908/news/steam-deck-officially-available-in-asia-this-month |work= IGN |access-date= 29 July 2023 |archive-date= July 29, 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230729211638/https://sea.ign.com/steam-deck/192908/news/steam-deck-officially-available-in-asia-this-month |url-status= live }} In October 2024, Valve announced that after 2 years since its release the Steam Deck will be made officially available to the Australian market from November.{{Cite news |last=updated |first=Shaun Prescott last |date=2022-10-18 |title=How to buy a Steam Deck in Australia: Valve will start shipping direct to Australia from November 2024 |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/when-does-the-steam-deck-release-in-australia/ |access-date=2024-11-03 |work=PC Gamer |language=en}} It was released on November 19 retailing for between {{AUD|link=yes|649–1,049}}.{{Cite web |last=Grixti |first=Shannon |date=2024-11-18 |title=The Steam Deck Finally Goes On Sale In Australia Today Including That Sexy White LE Version |url=https://press-start.com.au/news/pcmac/2024/11/19/the-steam-deck-finally-goes-on-sale-in-australia-today-including-that-sexy-white-le-version/ |access-date=2025-02-07 |website=Press Start |language=en-US}}

The initial reaction to the announcement of the Steam Deck was positive. Epic Games' Tim Sweeney and Xbox Game Studios' Phil Spencer complimented Valve on the Steam Deck, with Sweeney calling it an "amazing move by Valve!"{{Cite web |last=Chalk |first=Andy |date=July 15, 2021 |title=Tim Sweeney: Steam Deck is 'an amazing move by Valve' |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/uk/tim-sweeney-steam-deck-is-an-amazing-move-by-valve/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |website=PC Gamer |archive-date=November 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116152130/https://www.pcgamer.com/uk/tim-sweeney-steam-deck-is-an-amazing-move-by-valve/ |url-status=live }} Spencer congratulated Valve "on getting so many of us excited to be able to take our games with us wherever we decide to play".{{Cite web |last=Watts |first=Steve |date=July 16, 2021 |title=Microsoft 'Always Excited' About Things Like Steam Deck, But No Game Pass Commitment Yet |url=https://www.gamespot.com/articles/microsoft-always-excited-about-things-like-steam-deck-but-no-game-pass-commitment-yet/1100-6494040/ |access-date=July 16, 2021 |website=GameSpot |archive-date=November 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116152130/https://www.gamespot.com/articles/microsoft-always-excited-about-things-like-steam-deck-but-no-game-pass-commitment-yet/1100-6494040/ |url-status=live }}

Many outlets compared the unit to that of the Nintendo Switch, generally recognized as the first true hybrid video game console. Valve stated that they did not really consider the Switch in designing the Deck, as they "tried to make all the decisions really in Steam Deck that targeted that audience and that served the customers that were already having a good time interacting with the games that are on that platform, on our platform", and that by happenstance, came out with a device that was similar in function to the Switch.{{Cite web |last=Bailey |first=Kat |date=July 23, 2021 |title=Steam Deck: Valve Says It Never Really Compared Its Handheld to Switch |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-switch-comparison-gabe-newell-valve |access-date=July 23, 2021 |website=IGN |archive-date=July 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210726130439/https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-switch-comparison-gabe-newell-valve |url-status=live }} The Verge stated that the Steam Deck was generally a more powerful machine compared to the Switch but that power came with a tradeoff in battery life which was greater with the Switch. Furthermore, The Verge recognized that the specifications of the Deck were more comparable to the power of the consoles of the eighth generation like the Xbox One and PlayStation 4, though using more recent compute/micro- and graphics architectures than that which powered those older systems. Kotaku stated that while the Deck and Switch may be similar in concept, the two were not competing devices due to their target demographics, with the Switch aimed more at a broad audience machine, while the Deck was geared towards more "hardcore" gamers.{{Cite web |last=Hernandez |first=Patricia |date=July 16, 2021 |title=The Steam Deck Isn't Competing With The Nintendo Switch |url=https://kotaku.com/the-steam-deck-isnt-competing-with-the-nintendo-switch-1847304468 |access-date=July 16, 2021 |website=Kotaku |archive-date=November 16, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211116152130/https://kotaku.com/the-steam-deck-isnt-competing-with-the-nintendo-switch-1847304468 |url-status=live }} Digital Foundry noted that while the Deck's hardware may be more powerful, game developers only developing games for the Windows operating system are not necessarily able to get low-level access to the CPU/GPU as developers working on the Switch due to the Proton compatibility layer.{{Cite web |last=Leadbetter |first=Richard |date=July 20, 2021 |title=Spec Analysis: Steam Deck – can it really handle triple-A PC gaming? |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2021-valve-steam-deck-spec-analysis |access-date=July 20, 2021 |website=Eurogamer |archive-date=November 12, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211112092049/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2021-valve-steam-deck-spec-analysis |url-status=live }}

One of the main criticisms of the Steam Deck highlighted by multiple reviewers has been its battery life. Matt Hanson writing for TechRadar stated, "the battery life of the Steam Deck is pretty poor, with it just about managing one and a half hours while playing God of War ... That's going to upset a lot of people who may have been planning on using the Steam Deck for long flights, for example" and that "it certainly makes this portable gaming system feel less ... well, portable."{{Cite web |last=Hanson |first=Matt |date=26 February 2022 |title=Steam Deck review |url=https://www.techradar.com/reviews/steam-deck |access-date=28 February 2022 |website=TechRadar |archive-date=January 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230111165432/https://www.techradar.com/reviews/steam-deck |url-status=live }} Matt Miller of Game Informer called the device's battery life "punishingly low".{{Cite magazine |last=Miller |first=Matt |date=25 February 2022 |title=The Steam Deck Review |url=https://www.gameinformer.com/hardware/2022/02/25/the-steam-deck-review |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220225180121/https://www.gameinformer.com/hardware/2022/02/25/the-steam-deck-review |url-status=live |archive-date=February 25, 2022 |magazine=Game Informer |access-date=28 February 2022}} Steve Hogarty wrote in The Independent that "The battery life is by far the Steam deck's biggest weakness. The handheld PC chugs through juice like it's going out of fashion, with some graphically demanding games draining a full charge in as little as two hours of playtime."{{Cite news |last=Hogarty |first=Steve |date=18 March 2022 |title=Steam deck review: Valve's handheld gaming PC is revolutionary |work=The Independent |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/gadgets-tech/video-games-consoles/steam-deck-review-b2021379.html |url-status=live |url-access=subscription |access-date=28 February 2022 |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220524/https://www.independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/gadgets-tech/video-games-consoles/steam-deck-review-b2021379.html |archive-date=May 24, 2022}} Seth G. Macy wrote for IGN in very similar terms, saying, "Beyond that limitation, the biggest, most deflating issue I've had has been battery life. It's all over the place and probably the biggest reality check when it comes to realizing the dream of truly untethered PC gaming."{{Cite web |last=Macy |first=Seth G. |date=2022-02-25 |title=Steam Deck Review |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-review |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220225180124/https://www.ign.com/articles/steam-deck-review |archive-date=2022-02-25 |access-date=2023-05-18 |website=IGN}} Richard Leadbetter of Eurogamer said he "can't help [but] feel that elements like fan noise and battery life can only be resolved with a revised processor on a more efficient process node."{{Cite web |last=Leadbetter |first=Richard |date=25 February 2022 |title=Steam Deck review: the handheld PC capable of console quality gaming |url=https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2022-steam-deck-review-a-handheld-pc-capable-of-console-quality-gaming |access-date=28 February 2022 |website=Eurogamer |archive-date=February 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220228125108/https://www.eurogamer.net/articles/digitalfoundry-2022-steam-deck-review-a-handheld-pc-capable-of-console-quality-gaming |url-status=live }}

The research firm Omdia reported that the Steam Deck sold 1.62 million units in 2022.{{cite news |date= 6 April 2023 |title= Omdia: Steam Deck installed base to surpass three million during 2023 |url= https://omdia.tech.informa.com/pr/2023/04-apr/omdia-steam-deck-installed-base-to-surpass-three-million-during-2023 |work= Omdia |location= London |access-date= 29 July 2023 |archive-date= July 29, 2023 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20230729203611/https://omdia.tech.informa.com/pr/2023/04-apr/omdia-steam-deck-installed-base-to-surpass-three-million-during-2023 |url-status= live }} Their report estimated that the Steam Deck would pass 3 million units sold since its launch sometime during 2023. Through 2022 and most of 2023, the Deck had been one of the most popular purchases on the Steam storefront. Valve stated in November 2023 that they had sold "multiple millions" of the Steam Deck.{{cite web | url = https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/9/23954205/valve-steam-deck-multiple-millions | title = Valve says it has sold 'multiple millions' of Steam Decks | first = Jay | last = Peters | date = November 9, 2023 | accessdate = November 10, 2023 | work = The Verge | archive-date = November 9, 2023 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20231109202020/https://www.theverge.com/2023/11/9/23954205/valve-steam-deck-multiple-millions | url-status = live }} Market research firm International Data Corporation estimated that between 3.7 and 4 million Steam Deck had been sold by the third anniversary of the device in February 2025.{{Cite web |last=Hollister |first=Sean |date=2025-02-25 |title=Three years later, the Steam Deck has dominated handheld PC gaming |url=https://www.theverge.com/pc-gaming/618709/steam-deck-3-year-anniversary-handheld-gaming-shipments-idc |access-date=2025-02-26 |website=The Verge |language=en-US}}

The Steam Deck is credited with triggering a wave of similar handheld gaming computers. This includes the Asus ROG Ally and Lenovo Legion Go, which both launched in 2023, and the MSI Claw A1M which launched in 2024.{{cite web |last1=Fox |first1=Jacob |title=I chose the worst four years to take a hiatus from gaming hardware because now I feel like I'm being handed alien tech when confronted with a Steam Deck |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/hardware/i-chose-the-worst-four-years-to-take-a-hiatus-from-gaming-hardware-because-now-i-feel-like-im-being-handed-alien-tech-when-confronted-with-a-steam-deck/ |website=PC Gamer |language=en |date=2 August 2024 |access-date=August 10, 2024 |archive-date=August 9, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240809164551/https://www.pcgamer.com/hardware/i-chose-the-worst-four-years-to-take-a-hiatus-from-gaming-hardware-because-now-i-feel-like-im-being-handed-alien-tech-when-confronted-with-a-steam-deck/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web|title= Nvidia might be working on a PC handheld rival to Steam Deck – I just hope it won't be another Nvidia Shield|date= March 2024|url= https://www.techradar.com/gaming/steam-deck/nvidia-might-be-working-on-a-pc-handheld-rival-to-steam-deck-i-just-hope-it-wont-be-another-nvidia-shield|access-date= August 10, 2024|archive-date= August 10, 2024|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20240810101753/https://www.techradar.com/gaming/steam-deck/nvidia-might-be-working-on-a-pc-handheld-rival-to-steam-deck-i-just-hope-it-wont-be-another-nvidia-shield|url-status= live}}{{cite web |last1=Porter |first1=Jon |title=MSI's Claw is an Intel-powered Windows competitor to Valve's Steam Deck |url=https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/8/24026355/msi-claw-gaming-handheld-steam-deck-competitor-ces-2024-specs-features |website=The Verge |language=en |date=8 January 2024 |access-date=August 10, 2024 |archive-date=August 10, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240810102509/https://www.theverge.com/2024/1/8/24026355/msi-claw-gaming-handheld-steam-deck-competitor-ces-2024-specs-features |url-status=live }}

• Ayaneo, a competing brand of handheld gaming PCs
• GPD Win, an earlier similar device
• Ultra-mobile PC

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Category:2022 in video gaming

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