Despite one or two notable rivals emerging in the market recently, Valve’s Steam Deck is still one of the best ways to enjoy PC gaming on the go. The downside to this powerful handheld is the relative lack of storage for your game library. With the cheaper version of the Steam Deck available with only 64GB of internal storage, you might want to consider expanding that capacity by installing an SSD. Here are our top picks of the best Steam Deck-compatible SSDs.
SABRENT Rocket 2230 NVMe 4.0 1TB SSD
SABRENT Rocket Q4 2230 NVMe 4.0 2TB SSD
Inland TN436 512GB M.2 2230 SSD
Corsair MP600 Mini 1TB M.2 NVMe PCIe x4 Gen4 2 SSD
Western Digital 512GB SSD
Best Overall SSD for Steam Deck:SABRENT Rocket 2230 NVMe 4.0 1TB SSD
The best overall SSD for leveling up your Steam Deck storage is theSABRENT Rocket 2230. This mini drive is available in three different sizes: 256GB, 512GB, and this 1TB version. It offers Gen4 NVMe capabilities in a small form factor and is a great way to expand your space, particularly if you’re running one of the lower-storage Steam Deck versions.
It offers a read speed of 4750MB/s and a write speed of 4300MB/s, so you’re able to be confident you’re getting a fast and reliable performance from your games. It uses a dramatically reduced bandwidth compared to previous generations without compromising on latency. Plus, with this efficient drive, you also reap the benefits of a reduction in heat output. For the price point, you’re getting the fastest, most reliable performance possible with the Rocket 2230.
With 1TB of storage and exceptional performance, the SABRENT Rocket 2230 NVMe 4.0 SSD is one of the best storage solutions for your Steam Deck. Enjoy ultra-fast responsiveness, with less power draw and greater heat dissipation.
Best High-Capacity SSD for Steam Deck:SABRENT Rocket Q4 2230 NVMe 4.0 2TB SSD
Enjoy up to 2TB of storage in this single-sided 2230. TheSABRENT Rocket Q4 2230is an absolute beast if you’re prepared to make the initial outlay. Granted, it will cost you a small fortune compared to other SSDs, but it will reward you with its efficient, reliable, and cool performance. And a truckload of storage space, too.
Providing Gen4 performance of up to 5GB/s and up to 800K IOPS, the Rocket Q4 2230 is super responsive, and power efficient too. The Micron QLC flash runs cool, even with this amount of storage capacity, and helps to limit the drain on battery power.
The real issue here is the price tag, which might understandably be more than you’re willing to pay. However, if you’re prepared to make the investment, you get a whopping amount of bang for your buck.
Best Budget SSD for Steam Deck:Inland TN436 512GB M.2 2230 SSD
Inland might not be the best-known name in the world of storage, but the company is responsible for some great, affordable SSDs. For Steam Deck, that comes in the form of theTN436 512GB M.2 2230 SSD, which works perfectly with the handheld console and is very affordable.
The TN436’s small footprint works with Steam Deck, and it supports read/write speeds up to 3,600MB/s, so you should have no problem running all your games. Coupled with 1.5 million hours of mean time before failure (MTBF), you’ve got a reliable drive for your handheld PC. It’s a bit small at 512GB, but if you plan on mostly playing smaller indie games or just need space for a few massive multiplayer games, it’s well worth the low price of admission.
The Inland TN436 512GB M.2 2230 SSD doesn’t have as much storage space as competitors, but it works with Steam Deck, offers nice read and write speeds, and is reliable enough to last for years.
Best Performance SSD for Steam Deck:Corsair MP600 Mini 1TB M.2 NVMe PCle x4 Gen4 2 SSD
Offering 1TB of solid-state storage at a competitive price point, theCorsair MP6 Mini M.2 2230is a worthy alternative to more obvious choices, such as the SABRENT Rocket 2230. In terms of performance, it delivers up to 4,800 MB/s sequential read/write speeds, with rapid response times.
A good option for Steam Deck from a well-known gaming brand, the MP6 Mini carries the same quality you would expect from Corsair. It delivers improvements across the board on load times, responsiveness, and gameplay performance. Plus, a high-density TLC NAND flash memory provides it with a decent shelf life, too.
A fast and responsive SSD compatible with Steam Deck, the Corsair MP600 Mini 1TB M.2 NVMe PCle x4 Gen4 2 can compete with the best. It offers exceptional performance for its price point and is one of the best 1TB options available.
Best Mid-Range SSD for Steam Deck:Western Digital 512GB SSD
TheWestern Digital PC SN530is a solid and reliable SSD choice for your Steam Deck. It offers 512GB of storage, making it a good option for 64GB Steam Deck owners looking to upgrade.
This solid-state drive offers sequential read/write speeds of up to 2,400 and 1,750 MB/s and a good combination of performance, endurance, and reliability. Thanks to the PCle Gen3 x4 interface, it’s a mid-range SSD that allows for fast data transfer and overall responsiveness.
The Western Digital 512GB SSD is compatible with the Valve Steam Deck and is a solid, mid-range storage solution, particularly if you own the 64GB version. It provides reliable and efficient performance, ideal for boosting your gameplay experience and expanding your storage space.
Q: How do I install an SSD in my Steam Deck?
Adding an SSD to your Steam Deck involves enabling Battery Storage Mode, removing the back cover, and slotting in your new SSD. Be sure to follow our guide onhow to install an SSD in Steam Deckfor complete instructions.
Q: Can I use any internal SSD with my Steam Deck?
Not all SSDs will work. Be sure to find one that fits the dimensions required by the tiny handheld. For the most part, most PCIe Gen3 NVMe SSDs will be compatible.
Q: Can I use a ROG Ally SSD with the Steam Deck?
Yes, an SSD compatible with the ROG Ally should also work with Steam Deck, though note you’ll likely have to format it (deleting its existing data) before it’ll work properly.
Q: Can I use an external SSD with my Steam Deck?
Yes, you can use an external SSD with your Steam Deck, though it may not be ideal if you’re trying to play in handheld mode.
