Valve has surprised the gaming and tech community with the global release of the Steam Deck OLED. The standout feature of this new version is the slightly larger 90Hz OLED screen, which is an upgrade from the previous 7" LCD display. With a peak brightness of 1,000 nits, gamers can expect a more vibrant gaming experience.
YouTuber Dave2D wasted no time in getting his hands on the Steam Deck OLED and providing a comprehensive rundown of its improvements over the older model.
Improved Performance and Cooling
Taking a closer look at the details, the Steam Deck OLED boasts a new 6nm processor, an enhanced battery, and an improved cooling system, all of which contribute to noticeable improvements in performance. During testing, it was found that the Steam Deck OLED runs about 2 decibels quieter and 5 degrees cooler under load compared to its predecessor.
Valve has opted to stick with a single copper heatpipe for the chip's 15-watt maximum TDP (thermal design power). In addition, there is a slightly larger and quieter fan to improve air circulation. While the 6nm "Sephiroth" SoC (system-on-a-chip) has a new name, it shows minimal differences from the older 7nm version.
Extended Battery Life
The larger battery in the Steam Deck OLED has more than just aesthetic value. It significantly extends the battery life across all tested games, particularly in demanding titles. For example, in games like Cyberpunk 2077 or Control, the OLED model lasts over 20 minutes longer under load, requiring a recharge after just over two hours. On the other hand, less demanding titles like Dead Cells see a runtime boost to eight hours, which is an hour and a half more than the previous model.
Overall, the Steam Deck OLED offers an impressive upgrade with its larger OLED screen, improved performance, and extended battery life. Gamers can expect a more immersive experience with vibrant visuals, quieter operation, and longer gaming sessions. With Valve's continued commitment to refining their handheld gaming device, the Steam Deck OLED is undoubtedly a top contender for portable gaming enthusiasts.
