Valve has updated the prices of the Steam Deck OLED, increasing the cost of its 512 GB and 1 TB models. The increase responds to the rise in memory and storage costs. The base model goes from $549 to $789, while the 1 TB model rises from $649 to $949, with similar adjustments in euros and other currencies. For those looking to save, the company maintains certified refurbished options at lower prices.
Component costs and their impact on portable hardware 💸
Valve's decision aligns with the component market trend, where RAM memory and SSD storage have seen sustained increases. Although the Steam Deck OLED maintains its custom APU and 90 Hz screen, the adjustment reflects pressure on margins in niche devices. The company has not modified the technical specifications, so performance remains identical to the original units. Refurbished models, on the other hand, offer a more economical entry point.
Inflation also plays a role in the Steam Deck 😅
With these figures, one starts to wonder if memory now costs the same as a trip to the Caribbean. Valve says it's due to component costs, but perhaps it's their subtle way of telling us to stop buying games on sale to pay for the hardware. Of course, if your wallet is crying, you can always console yourself with a refurbished model and pretend it's a limited edition.