Valve Winds Down Sales of Steam Deck LCD Model
Valve has announced that it will soon stop selling one of its popular configurations,the Steam Deck LCD 256GB model. According to a notice on the Steam Deck store page, this particular version is being phased out and will no longer be available once current stock runs out.
The company reassured customers that while sales are ending, support for existing Steam Deck LCD users will continue. This should provide some comfort to those who already own this model, as valve emphasized its commitment to ongoing assistance.
At present, the store lists the Steam Deck LCD 256GB at a price of $399; though, it is indeed currently out of stock.Meanwhile, models featuring OLED screens remain readily available for purchase.
Stock Levels Determine Availability
Rather than providing a specific end date for sales,Valve has linked the discontinuation of the Steam Deck LCD 256GB directly to remaining inventory levels.This approach differs from typical restock announcements and suggests that any future availability could be fleeting.
The model's designation as “phased out” and its absence from active listings indicate that if it does return briefly, it may not last long on shelves.
The Rise of OLED Technology
The introduction of the Steam Deck OLED marks a meaningful upgrade over previous models. The OLED display offers richer blacks and improved contrast ratios compared to its predecessor. Additionally, enhancements in internal components have led to better battery performance. With OLED now positioned as Valve's flagship offering in handheld gaming devices,maintaining an entry-level LCD option seems less practical—thus leading to its retirement. While many gamers first experienced handheld gaming through the original LCD version, it's clear that the OLED variant stands out as arguably superior in terms of performance and visual quality.
Navigating Your Purchase Options
If you were especially interested in acquiring the $399 Steam Deck LCD 256GB model before it disappears completely from shelves, it's wise to consider this purchase carefully due to limited availability moving forward. While waiting might seem like an option worth exploring, keep in mind that phase-out language indicates you're taking a chance on dwindling stock levels.
If your timeline is more urgent or you’re eager for immediate access to new technology, focusing on purchasing an OLED model makes sense as that's what Valve actively promotes right now. The latest iteration stands among some of today’s top handheld gaming devices available on the market.
