As a PC gamer, you’ve probably already felt the ache that’s the ever-increasing file dimension of at present’s video games—Baldur’s Gate 3 and Purple Useless Redemption 2 are every round 150 gigabytes, for instance. These big video games change into much more of a problem on transportable consoles like Valve’s Steam Deck.
Large file sizes don’t must be an annoyance, nonetheless. Whether or not you opted for the 64, 256, or 512 GB variations of Valve’s handheld gaming laptop, or are contemplating getting the brand new Steam Deck OLED in both the 512 GB or 1 TB configuration, the solid-state drive contained in the console is upgradeable. By including a bigger capability drive to the Steam Deck’s inside SSD slot, you’ll be able to spend much less time swapping out microSD playing cards and video games and extra time really enjoying them.
Putting in a brand new M.2 SSD within the Steam Deck isn’t too onerous, however for those who’re not a do-it-yourself PC individual, you might discover it difficult (particularly for the OLED mannequin). We’re right here to information you step-by-step by way of the method—for each the unique Deck and the OLED version. Belief us, it’s definitely worth the effort.
Step 1: Decide a Appropriate Drive and Prep Your Deck
Earlier than you buy an SSD, you’ll need to make certain it’s appropriate along with your Steam Deck. Each fashions take the 2230 model of the M.2 NVMe SSD, which is its most compact type issue—excellent for becoming within the confined areas of the Steam Deck’s internals.
For this information, I am utilizing the WD_BLACK SN770M NVMe™ SSD, which is available in 500 GB, 1 TB, and a pair of TB storage capacities. To maintain your new SSD cool and operating optimally, you’ll additionally need to get a warmth sink. I opted for this copper possibility with thermal pads, which additionally comes with the entire instruments you’ll want to put in the SSD within the authentic Steam Deck. If in case you have the OLED, you’ll additionally have to get a star screwdriver (like the T6 on this multitool possibility) to take away the screws on the again panel and internally. As soon as you have put in the brand new SSD, you may have to load it with the right software program, which requires some further {hardware} like a pc, a flash drive, a wired keyboard, and a USB hub.
Earlier than you begin taking your Deck aside, make certain the house you’re utilizing is properly lit and ideally clear of something like mud and pet hair. Then, test to see if it’s operating the most recent software program by going to Settings > System > Software program Updates and hitting the Verify For Updates button. Replace the gadget, then shut it down.
If in case you have a microSD card within the slot, take away this earlier than you proceed. Then, to avoid wasting your joysticks and stop your console from shifting round whilst you work, I like to recommend inserting your Steam Deck upside-down in its case.