Summary:
- Valve’s cheapest handheld gaming console, the Steam Deck LCD, is no longer being made or sold.
- While there was no detailed explanation for the removal, Valve seems to be encouraging players to consider their better but more expensive models like the Steam Deck OLED.
- Players who already own a Steam Deck can still expect support and updates from Valve and will still be able to use their device without issues.
If you were hoping to buy a new Steam Deck at the lowest price, that option is gone. Valve no longer sells the $399 Steam Deck LCD, which was the cheapest model. Now, anyone who wants a Steam Deck has to buy a more expensive version. The $399 model gave players tight on budget a cheap way to experience Valve’s handheld gaming device, but it’s no longer available. Here’s what happened.
The End of the $399 Steam Deck
For many gamers, the $399 Steam Deck was the most affordable way to try Valve’s handheld console. It could run most games well, even though it had less storage and an older screen. However, Valve has now removed this version from its store and confirmed it will not return.
Valve did not make a public announcement, but the 64GB Steam Deck LCD is no longer listed, which means it is no longer being made or sold. Because of this, the cheapest Steam Deck option is gone. Anyone who was waiting for a discount or planning to buy it later can no longer get this more affordable model.
Why Valve Made This Decision
Valve hasn’t explained the decision in detail, but it’s easy to understand why. The company is focusing on newer models, especially the Steam Deck OLED. The OLED versions have better screens, run more efficiently, and feel more refined than older LCD ones.
The $399 Steam Deck also came with only 64GB of storage, which filled up fast for many players. Because of this, most people had to upgrade it soon after buying it. Valve likely felt it didn’t make sense to keep selling a model that needed extra upgrades right away. By removing it, Valve also made the product lineup simpler and pushed buyers toward more expensive models.
What Steam Deck Models Are Still Available
Even though the cheapest version is gone, the Steam Deck LCD is not completely discontinued. Some models with more storage are still being sold in a few places, but they may sell out soon.
If you already own a Steam Deck LCD, there’s no need to worry. Valve will continue to support it with updates, and it will still run many Steam games well. For new buyers, the choice is tougher since Valve is now focusing more on the Steam Deck OLED. Because of this change, people who want to buy a brand-new Steam Deck now will likely have to spend more than before.
A Steam Deck LCD can still be a good deal if you find one for a lower price, especially from other stores or second-hand sellers. However, if your budget allows, the OLED version is the better option in the long run because it offers better features.
How This Affects Budget Gamers
Removing the $399 model hits budget gamers the hardest. The Steam Deck LCD was popular because it gave good performance at a low price. Now that it’s gone, new buyers have to pay more to get a handheld gaming PC.
Because of this, some casual players may decide not to buy one, especially those who just wanted a cheap handheld for indie or light games. Additionally, used Steam Deck LCD units may become more popular. Players who want a cheaper option might turn to second-hand devices, which could raise demand in the resale market.
However, Valve likely thinks most buyers are okay with paying extra for better features and performance.
Conclusion
The cheapest Steam Deck is truly no more. Valve ending the $399 model feels like the end of an era. The Steam Deck LCD helped make handheld PC gaming popular because it was affordable. Now, however, Valve is focusing on more expensive models. Some people won’t like the higher price, while others may think the better features are worth it.
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