Valve has unveiled an exciting new iteration of its popular handheld gaming PC. Dubbed the Steam Deck OLED, this new model boasts several enhancements over the original Steam Deck LCD version, headlined by a stunning OLED display.
According to Valve, the Steam Deck OLED’s screen was designed specifically for gaming, providing higher contrast, deeper blacks, and more vibrant colours compared to a traditional LCD. While CGMagazine writer Clement Goh noted the LED display looks fantastic, with games like Elden Ring popping on the 7-inch screen, this new OLED variant looks to deliver even greater vibrance.
But it’s not just about eye candy. Valve claims the Steam Deck OLED will offer 30-50% longer battery life versus the LCD model. This is a huge upgrade that will let players game on the go for longer without having to plug in. The OLED model is also 5% lighter than the LCD Steam Deck, making it even more portable, something people who are travelling should be very happy to see.
Beyond the major upgrades on the previous LED model, the new Steam Deck OLED comes equipped with faster Wi-Fi 6E wireless networking for quicker game downloads. Valve says they’ve also made general improvements to thermals, and from the looks of things, it improves many of the issues people had with the previous iteration of the console.
The Steam Deck OLED will be available in 512GB and 1TB storage options starting at $549 — a $100 premium over the equivalent LCD models, which are now cheaper. For instance, the 256GB LCD model price drops to $399 immediately. A special limited edition translucent 1TB OLED model will also be exclusive to the US and Canada for $679.
Given the meaningful upgrades on display, the Steam Deck OLED seems well-positioned to further Valve’s mission of delivering an uncompromised AAA gaming experience in a handheld form factor. For gamers who want the best visuals, battery life, and portability, the Steam Deck OLED is shaping up to be the new gold standard in portable PC gaming. Look for it to hit shelves starting November 16th, and keep an eye on CGMagazine for more coverage about how the new console compares to other handheld gaming PCs.
