Steam Deck with 32GB memory
Valve’s Steam Deck, considered one of the leading handheld gaming devices, now faces heightened competition from various companies that tout more robust hardware capabilities. ASUS’s ROG Ally, for instance, boasts an AMD APU equipped with Zen4 and RDNA3 architectures, although it falls short by not exceeding Steam Deck’s memory capacity. Both devices were launched with 16GB of memory as the sole option.
In the realm of competition, Chinese manufacturers like AYANEO 1S, offering 32GB, and OneXPlayer 2, providing up to 64GB LPDDR5X alternatives, have emerged. However, Steam Deck’s unique focus on lower price points sets it apart from these contenders. This distinction is further emphasized by the recent introduction of an official refurbished program, allowing gamers to acquire a device for as low as $319, a reduction from the standard $349.
Steam Deck with 32GB memory,Source: @balika011
A notable aspect of the Steam Deck is its popularity among users for modding activities. These range from SSD storage or 1200p display upgrades to comprehensive software overhauls. A new modification, as presented by one of the modders, involves increasing the standard 16GB memory to 32GB. This undertaking involves a complex process of desoldering and reballing, making it a challenging work for inexperienced users without the appropriate tools and expertise.
Today I did another #SteamDeck mod. Upgraded the memory to 32GB! Let's bring the upgrades to the next level! (Yes, I cleaned the flux off later.) pic.twitter.com/mHFMPLVqUI
— Balázs Triszka (@balika011) August 3, 2023
Although no benchmark results were provided by the user, it remains uncertain if the modification will function optimally. However, there is a piece of evidence indicating success, as a system settings screenshot displaying 30.2GB of available RAM was shared.
These changes show that the platform can handle serious modification and hint at possible improvements in the future, if Steam or any other company makes it possible to upgrade. Presently, any mention of a potential successor to the Steam Deck remains absent from official announcements, so advanced users may have an incentive to try something new.
Source: @balika011