The most significant of these is the new 7.4-inch OLED display.
The bright primary hues of titles likeHades 2orCult of the Lambhave simply never looked better.
Other changes here are more subtle.
(Image credit: Future)
The Steam Deck OLED is slightly lighter and has been fitted with a larger fan for better thermal performance.
The Steam Deck OLED benefits from more battery life too, with official figures boasting a 30-50% boost.
There have been no noticeable improvements to in-game performance compared to the original model either.
In theory, Deck Verified games are those that will run decently right out of the box.
TakeDeathloop, for example, which has been awarded the big green tick.
Not quite the seamless, console-like experience that many would want.
(Image credit: Future)
This will get you the 512GB model, which comes bundled with a basic carrying case.
Which edition you get will mainly come down to your storage needs.
For $399 / 349, you might also pick up the older LCD model in its 256GB configuration.
(Image credit: Future)
Theres also a small square trackpad similar to those found on most laptops.
The right-hand grip is a similar story, with a thumbstick and trackpad in the same position.
Although not mechanical, theyre very pleasantly tactile and respond well to rapid inputs.
(Image credit: Future)
These can be customized to your liking with the suite of tools offered by the Steam Deck OLEDsoperating system.
Its a fantastic design overall and feels incredibly sturdy and comfortable in the hands.
My only real complaint is the sheer size of the Steam Deck OLED.
At 11.73in / 298mm long, the Steam Deck OLED is absolutely massive and not portable-friendly.
The bright red hues and smooth animations of the latter in particular are breathtaking on the OLED display.
Indie games are also great on the system.
Newer games are even more hit-and-miss.
Despite being a Deck Verified title,Deathloopis flat-out unplayable in its default configuration.
Thankfully, the battery life increases significantly when youre playing simpler titles, especially 2D games.
Should I buy the Steam Deck OLED?
If you want a handheld console that can play your existing games, this is a great choice.
They are more expensive than the Steam Deck OLED but are good alternatives if you crave better framerates.
Its also readily available secondhand.
Read our fullSteam Deck review
Nintendo Switch OLEDThe Nintendo Switch OLED is the definitive version of Nintendos latest console.
It also boasts a brilliant library of exclusive games such asAnimal Crossing: New HorizonsandSuper Mario Odyssey.
I experienced a wide variety of games including plenty of AAA releases and indie titles.
I used theFinal VR500andSteelSeries Tusqearbuds for audio while I was taking the console out and about.
For this purpose, I used a standard laptop dock with an HDMI output and myLenovoQ24i-20 monitor.
Read more about how we test
First reviewed August 2024
