If you’ve been considering a Steam Deck for your holiday gaming needs, now may be the time to act swiftly. The 256GB LCD model, the most budget-friendly version of Valve’s acclaimed handheld console, is set to be discontinued. Once it sells out, a 0 price increase will apply to the next available option, the OLED model, making it essential for interested buyers to make their move soon.
Price and Availability
The base model of the Steam Deck has long been celebrated for its affordability, especially when compared to its more advanced OLED counterpart. Priced at 9 / £349, the LCD version has offered a compelling entry point for gamers seeking portable convenience without breaking the bank. In contrast, the OLED model starts at 9 / £479, a significant leap that has made the LCD version particularly attractive for casual gamers and families.
While the LCD model may not handle the most demanding titles with the same finesse as its OLED sibling, it opens the door to a vast library of games available on Steam, making it a perfect choice for on-the-go gaming enthusiasts.
However, the clock is ticking for potential buyers. Valve has officially announced on the Steam Deck store page that production of the LCD 256GB model has ceased. The message reads: “We are no longer producing the Steam Deck LCD 256GB model. Once sold out, it will no longer be available.” Some regions are already showing the model as “Out of stock,” indicating a rush among consumers to secure one of the last remaining units.
Future Considerations
If you’ve been pondering a Steam Deck as a holiday gift, it’s advisable to check availability soon. With the LCD model disappearing from the market, you may need to weigh your options between upgrading to the OLED version or exploring alternatives such as the Asus ROG Ally or Lenovo Legion Go. However, be prepared for a steeper investment regardless of the path you choose.
While Valve has not disclosed the reasons behind this production shift, rising RAM and storage costs may have rendered the continuation of the LCD model at its current price unsustainable. Its departure from the market is certainly a loss for those seeking an economical entry into the realm of PC gaming. The upcoming Steam Machine, anticipated for release in 2026, may not offer such an accessible price point, suggesting that the landscape of gaming hardware is likely to become increasingly expensive.
