Valve phases out Steam Deck LCD for pricier OLED, in a blow for budget gaming handhelds

Despite new alternatives like the ROG Xbox Ally, many gamers still consider the Steam Deck LCD a superior value. Unfortunately, buyers who haven’t ordered the budget gaming handheld may be out of luck. In at least the U.S., Valve’s marketplace indicates that only the upgraded OLED version remains.

The end of an era for Steam supporters

Buyers browsing the website will see an ominous message below the more affordable option. Valve explains that “We are no longer producing the Steam Deck LCD 256GB model. Once sold out, it will no longer be available.” Adding to the misery, a sold-out sign already accompanies the LCD model.

Gamers can now only choose from the 512GB and 1TB variations of the Steam Deck OLED. The price jump is significant, putting the cheapest model at $549. Meanwhile, the often-discounted LCD gaming handheld had an MSRP of $399.

Even with the demise of Valve’s affordable solution, there is a healthy selection in the portable gaming PC arena. Besides the Asus ROG Xbox Ally, the Lenovo Legion Go S is in the same price range. Buyers willing to engage in some tinkering can also install SteamOS on the Windows 11 machines. Nevertheless, fans appreciated unique Steam Deck specs like its dual trackpads.

Is the Steam Deck OLED worth its higher price?

Many owners sing the praises of the slightly larger 7.4-inch OLED screen on the surviving Valve devices. Along with a high contrast display, it also offers a 90Hz refresh rate and HDR support. Still, with a similar processor, players won’t gain much additional horsepower.

As far as why Valve decided to discontinue the Steam Deck LCD now, one theory is proving popular. A memory shortage and rising DRAM prices are challenging manufacturers. There have already been rumors that the company might delay the upcoming Steam Machine as a consequence.

Valve may have decided that after nearly four years, the time is right to sunset the device. That said, the second-hand market will likely keep the budget gaming handheld kicking for the foreseeable future.