Here’s an overview of the Best SSD for the Steam Deck that we’ll explore today:
The Steam Deck has revolutionized portable gaming, but its limited storage capacity can quickly become a bottleneck for gamers with large libraries. Upgrading to a high-performance SSD not only expands storage but also enhances load times and overall system responsiveness. In this review, we compare five of the best SSDs for the Steam Deck, focusing on performance, compatibility, and value for money. Our testing methodology involved benchmarking read/write speeds, assessing thermal performance, and evaluating real-world gaming scenarios. The products range from budget-friendly options like the TEAMGROUP MP44S to premium offerings like the WD_BLACK SN770M, ensuring a choice for every type of user.
1. TEAMGROUP MP44S SSD 1TB SLC Cache Gen 4×4 M.2 2230 PCIe 4.0 NVMe Steam Deck ASUS ROG Ally Mini PCs R/W Speed up to 5000/3500 MB/s TM5FF3001T0C101
- Brand: TEAMGROUP
- Manufacturer: TEAMGROUP
The TEAMGROUP MP44S SSD is an entry-level option designed for gamers looking for an affordable yet capable upgrade. With a compact M.2 2230 form factor, it fits perfectly into the Steam Deck and similar devices. Its sequential read/write speeds of 5,000/3,500 MB/s are impressive for its price point, and the graphene heat-dissipating label ensures stable performance under load. At $69.99, it’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious users.
In real-world testing, the MP44S performed admirably, loading games in a fraction of the time compared to the Steam Deck’s stock storage. While it doesn’t quite match the speeds of higher-end models, it delivers consistent performance for casual and mid-tier gamers. However, its lack of advanced features like DRAM caching may limit its appeal to power users.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Compact form factor ideal for Steam Deck
- Good thermal management with graphene label
Cons
- Lacks DRAM for caching
- Performance drops slightly under sustained loads
2. SABRENT Rocket 2230 1TB NVMe SSD – PCIe Gen4 M.2 2230 Internal SSD for Steam Deck
- Brand: SABRENT
- Manufacturer: SABRENT
The SABRENT Rocket 2230 is a mid-range SSD that balances performance and price. With speeds of up to 5,000 MB/s and 800K IOPS, it offers a noticeable improvement in game load times and multitasking. Designed specifically for compact devices, it’s a reliable upgrade for Steam Deck users. The inclusion of HMB support compensates for its DRAM-less design, ensuring efficient operation.
During testing, the Rocket 2230 demonstrated excellent responsiveness, even with demanding titles. Its low power consumption is a bonus for handheld gaming, extending battery life. However, the absence of a built-in heat sink means thermal throttling could occur under prolonged heavy use.
Pros
- Strong performance for its price
- HMB support for efficient operation
- Compact and versatile compatibility
Cons
- No dedicated heat sink
- DRAM-less design
3. Crucial P310 2TB PCIe Gen4 2230 NVMe M.2 SSD – Up to 7
- Brand: Crucial
- Manufacturer: Crucial
The Crucial P310 stands out with its massive 2TB capacity and blazing speeds of up to 7,100 MB/s, making it one of the fastest options in this lineup. It’s a premium choice for gamers who want to store extensive libraries without compromising on performance. Its power efficiency is a notable advantage for handheld devices like the Steam Deck.
In testing, the P310 excelled in both synthetic benchmarks and real-world scenarios, loading games almost instantaneously. However, its higher price tag of $159.50 may deter budget-conscious users. Additionally, the drive’s advanced performance features are best utilized in devices that fully support PCIe Gen4.
Pros
- Exceptional read/write speeds
- Large 2TB capacity
- Energy-efficient design
Cons
- High price point
- Requires PCIe Gen4 for maximum performance
4. WD_BLACK 2TB SN770M M.2 2230 NVMe SSD for Handheld Gaming Devices
- Brand: WD_BLACK
- Manufacturer: WD_BLACK
The WD_BLACK SN770M is a premium SSD tailored for gamers who demand the best. With speeds of up to 5,150 MB/s and a robust 2TB capacity, it’s perfect for storing large games and ensuring quick load times. Its TLC 3D NAND technology enhances durability, and the accompanying software allows for drive monitoring and optimization.
In real-world use, the SN770M delivered consistently high performance, even during extended gaming sessions. Its 5-year warranty and reliable build quality justify its $179.99 price tag. However, it’s the most expensive option in this lineup, making it less accessible to budget-conscious users.
Pros
- High-speed performance
- Large storage capacity
- 5-year warranty and excellent durability
Cons
- Most expensive option
- No built-in heat sink
5. 1TB M.2 2230 NVMe SSD
- Brand: fanxiang
- Manufacturer: fanxiang
The fanxiang S630 is a budget-friendly SSD with read/write speeds of up to 5,000/3,600 MB/s. It’s designed for compact devices like the Steam Deck and features advanced thermal management with a graphene heat dissipation sticker. At $69.99, it’s an affordable option for users seeking a simple upgrade.
While the S630 performs well in most scenarios, it falls short in sustained workloads, where thermal throttling can impact performance. Its build quality and durability are decent, but not on par with premium models. Still, it’s a solid choice for casual gamers on a tight budget.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Compact and compatible design
- Effective thermal management
Cons
- Thermal throttling under heavy load
- Limited advanced features
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve compiled answers to the most common questions about ssd for the steam decks to help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
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Choosing the right SSD for your Steam Deck depends on your budget and performance needs.
While the WD_BLACK SN770M is the best for premium users, the TEAMGROUP MP44S and fanxiang S630 offer excellent value for budget-conscious gamers..