Once a fan-favorite, the Steam Deck is now a tougher sell for gamers on a budget thanks to recent price hikes. If you’re in the market for a handheld gaming device, you might want to reconsider your options as Valve’s pricing has shot up.
Currently, grabbing a new 512GB OLED Steam Deck will set you back $789, and if you’re eyeing the 1TB model, that’s a hefty $949. Even refurbished models, when available, aren’t much cheaper. This spike is largely due to the ongoing RAM crisis, with companies building AI datacenters driving up hardware costs. It’s a trend we’ve seen impact everything from the PS5 to Steam Machines.
Interestingly, Asus’s Xbox Ally handhelds have dodged the price jump for now. The standard Xbox Ally is priced at $599, while the more powerful Xbox Ally X goes for $999. Performance-wise, they match up closely with the Steam Deck, making the Xbox Ally a better deal for gamers looking to save some cash. If you’re curious about other gaming developments, check out how Bethesda is progressing on Elder Scrolls 6 amid industry changes.
If you’re considering a handheld gaming device, keep an eye on prices. The Xbox Ally is currently the more budget-friendly option, but as we’ve seen, prices can shift quickly.
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