Quick summary of the article
-
New fan, it’s quieter than both of the previous fans. Will be a huge upgrade for Delta fan users.
-
Old SSD will work, so anyone with a larger SSD from their previous deck should be able to move the SSD with all their games over to the new deck.
-
While the deck is easier to open with the new screws, there is now a ribbon cable run on the outside of the heat shield over the SSD. This cable is glued in place, meaning it’s required to disconnect the cable and carefully separate it from the adhesive. An unfortunate decrease in repairability for the device.
-
Most old accessories will work fine, with the exception of replaceable back plates. Even screen protectors should work, since most covered the bezel before.
-
Carrying case has several improvements on the larger model, including Velcro to hold it closed with the zipper closed, and a removable insert case that offers a slimmer, lower protection option.
-
The charging light on the deck is now multi-colored and can change color to let you know when the deck is fully charged.
This is the first time I’ve heard about gluing a cable to the heat shield cover. Oof.
Yeah, that’s kind of a major detail for anyone worried about reparability. Surprising choice. Not a deal breaker, but definitely a step in the wrong direction in terms of design (overshadowed by other good choices).
What’s weird is Valve has been so good about repairability. Can’t help but think there’s a solid reason for the change.
I have to wonder if it’s possible to keep the ribbon cable glued to the heat shield cover, and just remove the heat shield cover to open up access to the SSD.
It’s not worth risking tearing the cable, it’ll take you forever to order a replacement. Pick up a bottle of 99% iso alcohol at the pharmacy.
I’m really amazed in what valve did with the new steam deck. They really did a good job addressing many of the little pain points, while keeping most of the equipment compatible.
However, I am very happy with the current steam deck and will only replace it if a true next-gen deck arrives.
Gamers Nexus They Changed Everything: Valve Steam Deck OLED vs. LCD Tear-Down points out WAY more changes, they refreshed A LOT of the components. Completely new main board etc.
Same for the digital foundry video, it has a long list of changes.
I’m planning on ordering one when they’re available, it’ll be my first, so find it quite exciting reading about all the small improvements they’ve made.
I’m so happy with my Stream Deck. The improvements are so nice, but I’m not going to upgrade. But it means you get an even better version. So you’ll love it, I’m sure.
Same here. I’m just a bit scared that it will be sold out to quickly for me to grab one. :/
Did you manage to get one? The checkout errors were stressful but I got my order in.
Hey :D. Yeah, I had been trying to get one for half an hour but I kept getting that error. I honestly gave up and went to walk the dog. When I came back I tried again and immediately got one. I’m expecting it now by next week. How about you, did you get yours as well?
The new chip is supposed to be more efficient, so quieter fan makes sense.
Is the new hardware saving valve money?
There’s more device integration reducing part count on the board, which generally improves assembly and inspection. Who knows if the BOM is cheaper, but improvements to reliability and reparability will save money. It’s easier to repair and turn around broken screens & broken shoulder buttons. Fewer Decks are going to come back because the overheating charge controller exploded, thank god.
If nothing else it shows dedication to the product, as I think this is the first time they’ve revised hardware rather than releasing a new product. I know there was some grumbling when it came out that they move from one product to the next, so this could be them trying to prove that they’re serious about Steam Deck slash the investment is worth following.