How Many Games Can a Steam Deck Hold?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

As an avid Steam Deck user and fan of Valve‘s impressive new handheld, one of the most common questions I see is "how many games can it hold?"

With its SSD-based storage system and microSD card expansion, the Steam Deck can carry a sizable gaming library with you on the go! However, actual capacity varies based on which model you choose.

Built-In SSD Storage Breakdown

The 64GB eMMC drive can technically install 5-10 smaller indie or retro titles. However, today‘s most visually stunning AAA games can demand up to 70+ GB per install! For example:

  • Red Dead Redemption 2: 150 GB
  • Call of Duty Modern Warfare (2019): 175 GB
  • Microsoft Flight Simulator X: 170 GB

So while the 64GB model leaves room for a few 2D indie hits, more intensive 3D games will max out that tiny SSD quickly.

Stepping up to the 256GB or 512GB NVMe SSD configurations provide much more flexibility:

Drive Size# of 40GB Games# of 70GB Games
64GB10
256GB63
512GB127

So the 256GB drive can hold ~5-10 average sized AAA games, while the 512GB drive doubles that to ~10-20. Much more reasonable capacities compared to that extremely limiting 64GB base storage.

MicroSD Storage Expansion

Thankfully, Valve designed the Steam Deck to support microSD cards up to an enormous 1TB! This allows easily supplementing the internal SSD with additional affordable game storage.

A 512GB microSD card can add space for 10-20 more AAA games. Jumping up to a 1TB card means room for 20-40 AAA titles on top of what fits on the built-in SSD!

While SD card speeds are slower compared to SSDs, multiple reports show only minor differences in game loading times for most titles. So external SD expansion works excellently for increasing Steam Deck game capacity.

How Much Total Game Library Potential?

When combined with a 1TB microSD card, even the 64GB Steam Deck could store 30+ AAA games! That jumps up to 50+ on the 256GB unit and 70+ on the 512GB model covering a significant chunk of your Steam collection.

Plus with WiFi game streaming, your entire Steam library can be accessible on demand no matter where you are.

So while the base 64GB of internal storage is very limiting, the Steam Deck‘s microSD capabilities let you carry an impressive number of games on the go regardless of which SSD capacity you choose!

Let me know if you have any other questions. This little portable powerhouse keeps amazing me with what it can hold and do!

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

Similar Posts