Valve is giving Steam Deck fans a long-awaited treat with the official release of a white Steam Deck, nearly three years after teasing the color. This limited-edition handheld gaming PC will be available for purchase starting November 18, 2024, at 3PM PT / 6PM ET, and it’s set to make waves with its sleek new design. However, if you were hoping for something more than just a color change, the specs remain the same as the existing Steam Deck OLED 1TB model.
What’s New with the White Steam Deck?
This new white version of the Steam Deck doesn’t change the internal hardware—it’s identical to the existing Steam Deck OLED 1TB model. The difference is entirely aesthetic, with a clean white and grey color scheme that gives the device a more minimalist, modern look. If you’ve been hoping for a white version to match your gaming setup or just prefer the look of a lighter-colored device, this is your chance.
In addition to the white body, the limited-edition version comes with a matching white carrying case and a white microfiber cleaning cloth, enhancing the cohesive design. For $679, this version of the Steam Deck is priced slightly higher than the standard Steam Deck OLED 1TB, which typically sells for $649, meaning you’re paying an additional $30 for the unique color scheme.
Valve has confirmed that the white Steam Deck will only be available in limited quantities, with stock allocated across various regions, including the U.S., Australia, and select Asian markets. Once it sells out, Valve will not be producing any more of these white models, making this a true collector’s edition for fans of the handheld.
Inside the White Steam Deck
As far as performance and specs are concerned, the white version offers no surprises. You’re getting the same powerful hardware as the regular Steam Deck, including a custom AMD APU, 16GB of RAM, and a 1TB SSD. The OLED display is the standout feature here, providing vivid colors and deep contrast for a better gaming experience, whether you’re playing AAA titles or indie gems.
The Steam Deck’s unique functionality—allowing users to run PC games from their Steam library, or even install Windows for a broader gaming experience—remains unchanged. While some buyers may be drawn to competing devices like the Asus ROG Ally X, the Steam Deck continues to stand out with its larger selection of supported games and community-driven software updates. Valve’s commitment to improving the device through software updates ensures that the Steam Deck remains relevant and competitive.
A Nod to Portal Fans
If you’ve been following Valve for a while, you might remember the prototype white Steam Deck that was first shown off in 2021. That model, which was originally intended as a potential design for the device, had an Aperture Science logo from the Portal series on the back—a detail that got many fans excited. While this new white Steam Deck doesn’t come with an Aperture logo, it has sparked some playful speculation among fans. Perhaps, with a little imagination, you could customize the white Steam Deck with your own Portal-themed accessories, such as orange and blue thumbstick covers or custom Portal decals.
Valve, ever the tease, might not have included the Aperture branding on this model, but with a little creativity, owners can create their own Portal-inspired look for their white Steam Deck. Who knows—perhaps high-quality Portal-themed stickers will soon hit the market, allowing you to bring the aesthetic to life.
Conclusion
For those who have been waiting for a white Steam Deck, the wait is finally over. Valve’s new limited-edition white model offers the same powerful performance as the OLED 1TB version, but with a stunning new design that’s bound to appeal to collectors and fans of minimalist tech. However, as with all limited-edition products, time is of the essence: once it’s sold out, that’s it. If you’re a fan of the Steam Deck and have been itching for a lighter, fresher look, this is your chance to grab one before it’s gone for good.
So, mark your calendars for November 18th, and be ready to pick up your white Steam Deck before it disappears into the digital ether.
