You can even install other operating systems, such as Windows 11. You can also use the Steam Deck in desktop mode, allowing you to install a variety of Linux apps, turning the Steam Deck into a fully-fledged mini PC. You can plug in pretty much any USB-C hub, hook up a monitor or TV and play games on the big screen.

Some of the rough edges of the Steam Deck are a part of its charm, however, and in some cases are due to the flexibility of the device, which traditional consoles just can’t offer. However, if you’re a console player who’s used to more polished products that keep things as simple and straightforward as possible, you may be disappointed. This means if you’re a PC gamer with a large Steam library, and you’re used to the quirks and annoyances that come with playing PC games, then you’ll likely love the Steam Deck and overlook its rougher edges. However, as much as you may think the Steam Deck is a Nintendo Switch rival, it’s actually more of an alternative to gaming laptops. It’s certainly an ambitious task, but one that Valve mostly pulls off. The Steam Deck is one of the most eagerly anticipated product launches in recent times, with Valve trying its hand at making a handheld console.

Check out our original review below to see if a Steam Deck is a good fit for you.

We loved the Steam Deck when we first tested it out in February 2022 despite some of its flaws, so the most recent updates truly showcase the potential of the Steam Deck. The Steam Deck’s continual updates show that it’s a handheld system steadily improving from its already impressive reviews. The only drawback of the fan update is the slightly raised temperature of the Steam Deck CPU. However, it’s said that the latest Steam Deck update has tried to correct the fan whining, reducing the fan’s pitch and making it run almost silently. One issue that hasn’t quite been solved yet is the whine from the Steam Deck’s fan which can be high-pitched and grating, even if it isn’t particularly loud. Users can now switch between windows in the same application, like web browser tabs. Valve is working on other keyboard layouts as well, including Korean, Japanese, and Chinese. There have been multiple Steam Deck keyboard updates resulting in 21 different languages and various layouts available beyond the standard QWERTY English keyboard.

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