That was quick! Less than 24 hours after Valve announced the Steam Deck OLED was back in stock—at a much higher price—it’s already sold out in the US and Canada. Checking other regions, it seems the handheld is still available in Europe, Australia, and some parts of Asia through Valve’s partner, Komodo.
It’s tough to pinpoint exactly how many units sold at this new price. However, the demand pushed the Steam Deck back to the top of Steam’s Top Sellers list. This ranking is based on total revenue over the last 24 hours, which means the more expensive Steam Deck likely sold fewer units than the top game, the $70 007 First Light.
Interestingly, Valve’s website mentions that availability might be spotty due to memory and storage shortages. This warning has been on their site since February, with stock-tracking websites showing very few chances to purchase the Steam Deck since then. This suggests the shortage might continue for a while, especially as Valve gears up for the upcoming launch of the Steam Machine.
If you’re not keen on waiting, both new and used Steam Deck units (including OLED models) are available on eBay for prices at or below retail. The Lenovo Legion Go S, which also runs SteamOS, is still widely available, though its price has increased since launch. Additionally, some users are finding ways to install SteamOS on the Windows-powered ROG Ally, which remains at its launch prices of $600 for the standard model and $1,000 for the enhanced version.
Experts have noted that the surge in demand for gaming hardware reflects a broader trend in the gaming industry. Many gamers are eager for portable options, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic increased the popularity of gaming as a home pastime. According to recent statistics, the global gaming market is expected to grow by over 12% annually, highlighting the increasing interest in devices like the Steam Deck.
In social media circles, reactions to the Steam Deck’s fluctuating availability reveal a community eager but frustrated by the constant restock issues. Videos and threads discussing alternative systems are trending, showcasing a variety of options for gamers who don’t want to miss out.
As demand for portable gaming devices continues to rise, it’s crucial to stay updated on stock levels and explore different options, whether it’s through DIY modifications or purchasing from resellers.
