The Steam Deck Just Got Indirectly More Expensive

Just days before Christmas, Valve announced it has officially discontinued the Steam Deck LCD, the most affordable entry point into its handheld ecosystem. This move effectively raises the starting price of a new Steam Deck, as the premium OLED models are now the only units in production.

Initially launched in February 2022, the original Steam Deck started at $399. While the OLED versions offer significant upgrades—including better refresh rates, improved Wi-Fi, and longer battery life—the LCD model served as a vital budget-friendly option for PC enthusiasts and casual gamers alike.

The End of the LCD Era

With the 2025 Steam Winter Sale currently underway, holiday shoppers now have one fewer option. Valve confirmed that the 256GB LCD model is no longer being produced and has already sold out in the US.

 

The shift in the lineup has created a notable price gap for new buyers:

• Retired Entry Price: $399 (256GB LCD)

• New Entry Price: $549 (512GB OLED)

• The Difference: A $150 increase to get into the Steam Deck ecosystem.

Earlier this fall, the 256GB LCD was even discounted as low as $319.20, making it over $100 cheaper than the Nintendo Switch 2. With that stock now gone, the market for affordable handhelds has significantly tightened.

 

Why Prices Are Shifting

The decision comes amid a turbulent time for tech manufacturing. Throughout late 2025, the price of DRAM has skyrocketed due to the massive demand for AI-based data centers. With major suppliers like Samsung and SK Hynix facing shortages, DDR5 RAM prices quadrupled between September and December. This global "RAM crisis" has forced many manufacturers to streamline production and prioritize higher-margin products.

 

Looking Ahead to 2026

Valve is already pivoting toward a new hardware family for early 2026. This includes the recently announced Steam Machine (a cube-shaped "GabeCube" for living room gaming), the Steam Controller (codename Triton), and the Steam Frame VR headset.

While rumors of a true "Steam Deck 2" continue to circulate, Valve has yet to reveal official details. For now, gamers looking for a portable PC will have to decide if the OLED's premium features justify the new, higher barrier to entry.

Would you like me to compare the specs of the new Steam Machine with current-gen consoles like the PS5 Pro?