Modder upgrades Steam Deck OLED to 32 GB RAM

While 16 GB of RAM in a desktop PC would be sufficient for gaming, the same amount of RAM in a handheld like the Steam Deck OLED (buy on Amazon) could be limiting. In a handheld, the memory is shared by the CPU and the integrated graphics, which could lead to bottlenecks in more demanding games. A modder seems to have solved this issue by upgrading the Steam Deck OLED to 32 GB RAM, but of course, there’s a catch.

Back in November of 2023, SlickBuys Mods and Repairs posted a video on YouTube showing how they upgraded the Asus ROG Ally to 32 GB 7,500 MHz memory. The same channel has now upgraded the Steam Deck OLED. The latest video (linked below) shows the tedious upgrade process that involves disassembly, desoldering the existing RAM chips, and modifying the BIOS to accept the new RAM. The channel also recommends blocking the BIOS from updating so the settings are not reset after a firmware update.

While SlickBuys Mods and Repairs makes it look straightforward, they did mention that just the 32 GB memory chips alone cost them $110. While the total cost for the full upgrade service is undetermined at this point, the channel is looking for feedback on how much it should cost. This upgrade might solve some of the bottlenecking in demanding games, but it comes with a few caveats, the price and lack of future updates being the major ones.

Those who would like to have their Steam Deck OLED modded can still reach out to SlickBuys Mods and Repairs and they will upgrade it for you, following a discussion about the price. Interested users will first need to reach out for a quote and discuss payment options, then the handheld can be shipped or dropped off.