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Should you buy a steam deck now or wait for the 2?

Steam Deck Debate | Should You Buy or Wait?

By

Aiden Patel

May 1, 2025, 10:40 PM

Edited By

Sofia Wang

2 minutes of duration

A side-by-side view of a Steam Deck and a placeholder for Steam Deck 2, highlighting design and features
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A growing number of gamers are weighing in on whether now is the time to purchase the Steam Deck or hold out for a potential successor. Concerns about availability and pricing are fueling a heated conversation in gaming forums.

Context of the Discussion

As the gaming landscape evolves, many people are considering if they should opt for the current model of the Steam Deck, or whether waiting for a future release is the smarter move. Some point to the absence of guarantees for a Steam Deck 2, while others highlight the potential for new games that may not run well on the existing hardware.

Main Themes Emerging from Comments

  1. Performance Limitations: Users noted that while the Steam Deck plays a variety of games, it struggles with newer AAA titles, particularly those that demand high graphics capabilities.

  2. Value for Money: Many agree that despite its limitations, the Steam Deck offers great value compared to rising costs in gaming hardware, making it an appealing choice for budget-conscious buyers.

  3. Library of Games: The sheer volume of games available on Steam makes the Deck worth considering, as reported by multiple enthusiasts who emphasize its backward compatibility with older titles.

"The Steam Deck is a great system that does great things," one user exclaimed.

Meanwhile, another person pointed out that current prices for gaming hardware are on the rise due to tariffs, which could make the Steam Deck's cost-effectiveness even more appealing.

User Experiences

Some noted that the Steam Deck has successfully run titles like Alan Wake 2 and Silent Hill 2 Remake, although with significant performance strain. Another commenter revealed, "If you want to play AAA games and have decent internet, you can stream it from your PC or GeforceNow."

Interestingly, a few users expressed that while waiting for the next version may seem prudent, the current model "should have support for a decade." Emphasis on indie games and the existing library remains a strong reason to buy now rather than wait.

Key Points to Consider

  • ๐Ÿ“ˆ Performance Concerns: "Any new releases will be iffy. Great for Indies or Steam backlog."

  • ๐Ÿ’ธ Cost-Efficiency: Many believe the Steam Deck remains a solid choice as hardware prices increase overall.

  • ๐ŸŽฎ Game Library: Massive selection on Steam ensures the Deck can keep users entertained.

In summary, the chatter around the Steam Deck reveals a mix of excitement and caution. While some tout the current version's quality and price, others anticipate the potential of a new model. The question remains: is it the right time to buy, or are waiting games worth considering?