Recording summary · February 2022
[2022-02-27] DO NOT BUY Steam Deck - VERY disappointing [nnx9lNGIOY0]
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Overview
Daniel evaluated the Steam Deck and found it disappointing as a portable device due to poor battery life, excessive weight, and ergonomic design issues, preferring existing setups like the Nintendo Switch and a desktop PC while awaiting a potential Steam Deck 2.
Initial interest stemmed from the desire to play PC games portably without carrying a heavy gaming laptop, but battery life drops to roughly one hour during AAA games, necessitating frequent charging indoors or carrying heavy battery banks.
Ergonomic and physical drawbacks include hand discomfort and a blister, arm strain compared to the lightweight Switch Lite, horizontal thumbstick placement, unnecessary trackpads, and accidental presses on rear paddle buttons.
Propping the device on a stand with an external Xbox controller was rejected in favor of a desktop PC setup with a 36-inch curved monitor, with desired revisions for a future model focusing on reduced weight and size, better battery life, extra USB ports, and removal of rear paddles and trackpads.
Themes
Evaluation of Steam Deck portability, battery limitations, and charging workarounds.
Ergonomic issues, physical strain, and controller layout criticisms.
Comparisons with alternative devices and desired specifications for a Steam Deck 2.