Don't Buy a Marked-Up Steam Deck When Cheaper Options Exist

The Steam Deck, despite being one of the best handheld gaming PCs on the market four years after its launch, is currently embroiled in a pricing debacle that makes it a hard sell. With the device sold out for several months and no clear restock timeline from Valve—potentially waiting for the eventual Steam Deck 2 launch—the market has responded with staggering markups. The 512GB OLED model, originally priced at $555, now costs around $1,110 on Amazon, exactly double its list price.

This significant price hike, coupled with the uncertainty of future stock, raises a critical question for potential buyers: is the Steam Deck worth the current cost? According to Jackie Thomas, Hardware and Buying Guides Editor, the answer is unequivocally no.

"just get a different handheld. Don't spend these ridiculous markup prices."

Jackie Thomas, Hardware and Buying Guides Editor

Her advice is backed by the existence of equally capable, if not superior, alternatives at similar or lower price points.

Alternatives Offer Better Value

Two notable alternatives, the Lenovo Legion Go S and the Xbox Ally X, stand out as more viable options for those seeking a high-quality handheld gaming experience without the inflated pricing. Both devices offer a higher resolution display, better performance, and double the storage compared to the Steam Deck, all at around the same inflated price point of the Steam Deck or even lower.

The Xbox Ally X, in particular, is noteworthy. Initially compared unfavorably to the Steam Deck at launch due to the Steam Deck's better value proposition, the tables have turned with the Steam Deck's current unavailability and pricing. The Xbox Ally X now offers comparable performance with the added comfort of a more ergonomic grip, albeit requiring the use of Windows 11, which has been improved with the Xbox Full Screen Experience.

The Risks of Used Listings

For those still set on acquiring a Steam Deck, the only somewhat affordable route is through used listings on platforms like Ebay. However, this path comes with its own set of risks. Prices for used Steam Decks are often close to, or even exceed, the original MSRP of $555, and buyers have no guarantee that the device will be in working condition upon arrival.

A Wait for Steam Deck 2 or Explore Alternatives

The situation underscores a dilemma for fans of the Steam Deck: wait indefinitely for potential restocks or the future Steam Deck 2, or explore the market for alternatives that currently offer better value. Given the current landscape, the latter seems to be the more prudent decision for most gamers.

As Jackie Thomas passionately advocates for seeking alternatives, her past endorsement of the Steam Deck as the most affordable entry into PC gaming now stands in stark contrast to its current market status. The hope remains that with the release of Steam Deck 2, Valve will reclaim its position as a leader in affordable handheld PC gaming.

Verdict

In conclusion, the current market conditions make buying a Steam Deck at its marked-up price inadvisable. With alternatives like the Lenovo Legion Go S and Xbox Ally X offering more for the money, gamers are better off exploring these options. Only time will tell if Valve can rectify the situation with restocks or the eventual launch of Steam Deck 2, but for now, caution and exploration of the broader market are advised.