
Steam Deck 2024 Survey: Insights on Satisfaction and User Trends | Image Source: overkill.wtf
Dec. 23, 2024 — The 2024 Steam Deck Survey, conducted by Overkill, has unveiled fascinating insights into how users interact with Valve’s portable gaming PC. With over 3,800 participants, this year’s survey witnessed a 20% increase in responses compared to 2023. The findings highlight user satisfaction, usage patterns, hardware preferences, and future expectations for the Steam Deck.
Participants rated their overall satisfaction with the Steam Deck at an impressive 8.92 out of 10, signaling widespread contentment with Valve’s device. Among the key revelations was the confirmation that price remains the top barrier for non-owners, a consistent trend from last year’s survey. Additionally, modifications, accessories, and storage choices emerged as important facets of user experience, showcasing the community’s adaptability and commitment to enhancing the device.
Demographics and Ownership
The survey highlighted diverse demographics among respondents, with 48% residing in North America, 42% in Europe, and the remaining participants scattered globally. The majority of respondents, about 76%, were aged between 18 and 39 years. Ownership data revealed that 86% of respondents own a Steam Deck, and 11% own multiple units, while 3% do not own the device, primarily citing its price as a barrier.
Regarding models, the 512GB OLED Steam Deck emerged as the most popular choice, selected by 24% of participants. Close behind were the 512GB LCD (23%) and 64GB LCD (17%) variants. Interestingly, a significant 26% of respondents upgraded their device’s SSD, primarily opting for a 1TB SSD. Meanwhile, 77% of participants expanded their storage with microSD cards, with 512GB and 1TB capacities being the most common choices.
Customizations and Accessories
The survey shed light on users’ customization efforts. Cosmetic modifications, including screen protectors and skins, were prevalent, with some users reapplying thermal paste for enhanced cooling. Around 8% of respondents reported making such changes. Protective cases were used by 35% of participants, while 58% owned a dedicated dock, underscoring the importance of accessories in optimizing the Steam Deck experience.
Valve’s emphasis on flexibility in design is reflected in these modifications, which allow users to personalize their devices. Brands such as JSAUX and dbrand have played a significant role in catering to this demand.
Usage Patterns
SteamOS continues to dominate as the preferred operating system for the Steam Deck, though dual-booting and experimentation with alternative systems were reported by 219 respondents. In terms of playtime, 58% of users reported gaming 1–7 hours weekly on their Steam Deck. Heavy usage saw a notable rise, with 15% gaming for more than 14 hours weekly, up from previous years.
Indie games remained the most popular genre, with 51% of respondents indicating their preference, followed by Triple-A games (34%) and retro titles via emulation (11%). The top ten games played this year included titles like Elden Ring, Vampire Survivors, and Baldur’s Gate 3. Notably, the PlayStation 2 topped the list of emulated platforms, showcasing the device’s versatility.
Community Feedback on Performance
Performance remains a crucial aspect for Steam Deck users. According to the survey, 62% of respondents felt limited by the device’s capabilities, citing challenges with resource-intensive games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Baldur’s Gate 3. Suggestions for a potential Steam Deck 2 included demands for a larger battery (1,462 mentions) and a more powerful chipset (1,015 mentions). Users also expressed interest in enhanced software features such as variable refresh rates, improved game compatibility, and streamlined library management.
Regarding Valve’s Verified Status system, the survey revealed a nuanced perspective. While 67% of users disregarded Verified Status in their purchase decisions, the majority relied on third-party platforms such as ProtonDB and Reddit to assess game compatibility. This trend highlights the community’s proactive approach to optimizing their gaming experience.
Future Hardware and Features
As Valve considers future hardware iterations, respondents voiced interest in additional innovations. The most requested product was a Steam Controller 2, followed by more advanced VR headsets and modular devices. Suggestions for improving the Steam Deck included better cooling solutions, expanded docking capabilities, and integration with services like Xbox Game Pass.
Users also highlighted a desire for Valve to explore hybrid console concepts, leveraging the Steam Deck’s existing ecosystem. Community-driven controller layouts and input methods, such as trackpads, were particularly valued, with 64.62% of respondents using trackpads for gaming and 35.38% for desktop navigation.
Conclusion
The 2024 Steam Deck Survey underscores the handheld’s growing popularity and the community’s dedication to optimizing its performance. With a strong satisfaction rating and a wealth of feedback on hardware and software enhancements, Valve has an opportunity to refine its offering further. As the company explores new innovations, the survey results will likely shape the next chapter in the Steam Deck’s evolution.