Valve has stopped producing the entry-level LCD version of its Steam Deck handheld gaming device. The 256GB model, which retailed for $399, is now out of stock and will not return once current supplies are depleted. Buyers must now opt for pricier OLED alternatives starting at $549.
Valve's announcement marks the end of an era for the more affordable Steam Deck variant. In a note on its official Steam Deck page, the company stated it is "no longer producing the Steam Deck LCD 256GB model," emphasizing that "once sold out, it will no longer be available." At the time of the update, the device was already unavailable from new stock, and even refurbished units had been exhausted.
The LCD Steam Deck, launched as part of the original lineup in 2022, provided an accessible entry point into portable PC gaming. It came in configurations including a 64GB eMMC option, which was discontinued earlier, followed by the 512GB LCD model. The remaining 256GB version offered solid performance for its price, earning praise as a top choice for most gamers seeking a handheld console.
Switching to OLED models brings improvements like extended battery life and a larger screen with a 90Hz refresh rate. The base OLED edition now starts at $549 for 512GB of storage, while the 1TB version begins at $649. Valve has assured owners of older LCD devices that software support will continue, ensuring longevity for existing hardware.
This move aligns with Valve's shift toward premium features in the Steam Deck lineup, though it raises the barrier for new entrants into the ecosystem.
