Valve’s Steam Deck 20% off deal has ended — here's what to get instead (and why)

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By Contributions from last updated

Valve’s Steam Deck is on rare 20% sale this Cyber Monday (and ends today!)— grab the handheld plus essential accessories for the perfect beginner setup.

Steam Deck vs Legion Go S product showcase
The Steam Deck is having a rare discount sale, along with some compatible accessories. (Image credit: Lenovo | Valve | Edited with Gemini)
Recent updates

Monday, Dec. 1 @ 3:44 PM ET: And like that, as we warned, Valve has ended the sale, returning the price to $400 instead of $320. I've added your next best option (besides the full-priced Steam Deck) with the Legion Go S, which is a better system with a more powerful processor. I've also added the Lexar microSD card for the fastest, most premium option. - Daniel Rubino, Editor-in-Chief

For the first time in Valve's history, it is launching its own sales event just before Cyber Monday, slashing prices for hundreds of games for PC gamers to enjoy.

Valve Steam Deck (256GB, LCD)
Steam Deck
Valve Steam Deck (256GB, LCD): $399 at store.steampowered.com
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"Valve's iconic Steam Deck has aged exceptionally well and is still a perfectly capable handheld gaming PC. Its Linux-based SteamOS has matured and remains the best overall experience, streamlining customization and software maintenance with minimal tinkering compared to its Windows-based rivals." ~ Richard Devine, Managing Editor

Windows Central Review:⭐⭐⭐⭐

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OK, so now that the sale is over for the LCD Steam Deck, what about something else? Best Buy has the outstanding Lenovo Legion Go S, which also runs SteamOS, for $449.99 (usually $649).

Why pay $50 more than the Steam Deck's full price? For one, you get 512GB of storage instead of 256GB. The Legion Go S's display is also larger (8-inch vs 7) and higher resolution (1920x1200 instead of 1280x800) with a higher refresh rate (120Hz instead of 60).

More importantly, you're getting a beefier processor with the Legion Go S and AMD Ryzen Z2 Go, often adding 20-40% more FPS on many popular games. In some games, like Monster Hunter Wilds, the Legion Go S will be satisfactory, whereas the Steam Deck will struggle. If the Steam Deck runs a title at ~40 FPS, the Z2 Go could push ~50–55 FPS.

While the battery is bigger on the Legion Go S (55.5WHr vs 40WHr), both get basically the same on endurance tests, which says something since the Legion Go S is a much more powerful system.

Lenovo Legion Go S (Z2 GO, SteamOS)
Lowest Price Ever
Save 31% ($200)
Lenovo Legion Go S (Z2 GO, SteamOS): was $649.99 now $449.99 at Best Buy
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This gaming handheld has an 8-inch touchscreen that supports Variable Refresh Rate and has a 120Hz refresh rate. The device fits in-hand comfortably and runs the easy-to-navigate SteamOS. An early Black Friday deal drops this model of the Legion Go S to the lowest price we've ever seen.

Windows Central review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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If you do go with the Legion Go S, nearly all the accessories below are either compatible or those companies make a compatible version for Lenovo's device, making it an easy switch.

Indeed, check out our best Lenovo Legion Go S accessories guide for more ideas.

JSAUX 6-in-1 Multifunctional Docking Station
Dock to charge
Save 30% ($12)
JSAUX 6-in-1 Multifunctional Docking Station : was $39.99 now $27.99 at Amazon
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"It offers the right amount of power to sustain Windows 11 PC gaming handhelds while outputting higher resolution and refresh rates than other docking stations out there." ~ Rebecca Spear, Gaming and News Editor

Windows Central Review:⭐⭐⭐⭐

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iVoler Steam Deck Screen Protector [2-Pack]
Screen protection 🪟
Save 15% ($1.35)
iVoler Steam Deck Screen Protector [2-Pack]: was $8.99 now $7.64 at Amazon
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You can protect that expensive device's screen from cracks and other damage with this tempered glass screen protector kit. There are several to choose from, but I like this one because it comes with that alignment frame to help you perfectly install the glass on your first try.

See our deeper Steam Deck buyer's guide for more screen protector options!

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JSAUX ModCase (front, back, and kickstand)
Best Budget🏅
Save 20% ($6)
JSAUX ModCase (front, back, and kickstand): was $29.99 now $23.99 at Amazon
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If you're new to Steam Deck, get familiar with JSAUX. They make arguably the best-priced, most creative, and just cool gear for Steam Deck. The Mod Case is a back cover with grips, a snap-on front cover for display and joystick protection, a built-in kickstand, and a mod system that lets you strap batteries, fans, etc. to your Deck for the ultimate experience. Some actually prefer this over the dBrand option below, and it is certainly more affordable (it's what I personally use, too - Daniel Rubino, Editor-in-Chief).

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dBrand Killswitch Travel Kit for Steam Deck
More premium
Save $20.04
dBrand Killswitch Travel Kit for Steam Deck: was $99.89 now $79.85 at dbrand
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If you want quality in a protective case cover, then dBrand's Killswitch is the way to go. It's made of a textured rubber material that perfectly aligns with the Steam Deck's form. Plus, it comes with a hard plastic screen cover, so you can travel with your handheld without needing a bulky carrying case.

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Anker Power Bank
Portable battery
Save 36% ($25)
Anker Power Bank: was $69.99 now $44.99 at Amazon
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Don't have a charger or a compatible power outlet on hand? Then use Anker's Power Bank to keep your gaming handheld topped with its 65W charging power and 20,000mAh for extended use.

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Crucial 1TB P310 M.2 2230 SSD
Storage upgrade
Save 37% ($50)
Crucial 1TB P310 M.2 2230 SSD: was $134.99 now $84.99 at Amazon
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If you feel comfortable customizing and upgrading your Steam Deck, then you should consider getting this 1TB SSD. It offers up to 7,100MB/s read and 6,000MB/s, making it perfect for gaming.

If you want help, follow our guide on how to upgrade Steam Deck's SSD.

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Tomtoc Arccos-G47 Travel Bag for Steam Deck and ROG Ally
Protect your Steam Deck
Save 25% ($13)
Tomtoc Arccos-G47 Travel Bag for Steam Deck and ROG Ally: was $52.99 now $39.99 at Amazon
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"I love the Arccos G-47 from Tomtoc and highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a protective bag with plenty of storage space." ~ Rebecca Spear, Gaming and News Editor

Windows Central Review:⭐⭐⭐⭐½

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Samsung PRO Plus microSD Memory Card
1TB for less
Save 33% ($40)
Samsung PRO Plus microSD Memory Card: was $119.99 now $79.99 at Amazon
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This microSD offers 1TB of storage space for your games, fast loading times thanks to its 180MB/s Reading Speeds and 130MB/s Writing speeds.

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Lexar 1TB Play PRO microSD Express Card
Fastest and premium🏅
Save 15% ($34)
Lexar 1TB Play PRO microSD Express Card: was $219.99 now $185.99 at Amazon
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Need speed that makes your old microSD look like dial‑up? The Lexar Play PRO taps into microSD Express with blazing 900MB/s read and 600MB/s write speeds, perfect for gaming handhelds, 4K video, or anyone tired of waiting on transfers. Backward‑compatible with UHS‑I devices, waterproof, shockproof, and future‑proof — this is storage at Ferrari pace.

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JSAUX 65W USB-C Charger
Charge fast
Save 27% ($7)
JSAUX 65W USB-C Charger: was $25.99 now $18.99 at Amazon
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Recharge your Steam Deck and other gaming handhelds in a snap with this fast-charging 65W USB-C charger with US, UK, and EU plug adapters to keep them energized, no matter what country you're playing in.

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Microsoft Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller (Carbon Black)
Compatible controller
Save 38% ($25)
Microsoft Xbox Wireless Gaming Controller (Carbon Black): was $64.99 now $39.99 at Amazon
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While your Steam Deck is docked to a TV or monitor, you can use an Xbox Wireless Gaming controller to play your games from the comfort of your couch, chair, or bed.

Windows Central Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Syntech USB-C to USB-A adapters [2-Pack]
USB-C to USB-A
Save 46% ($6)
Syntech USB-C to USB-A adapters [2-Pack]: was $12.99 now $6.99 at Amazon
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Use these easily portable adaptors to hook up gaming accessories with USB-A adaptors to your Steam Deck, like wired controllers or headsets.

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iVanky 8-in-1 Docking Station
8-in-1 charge
Save 33% ($13)
iVanky 8-in-1 Docking Station: was $39.99 now $26.99 at Amazon
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The iVanky 8-in-1 Docking Station is a versatile yet affordable charger that features a multitude of HDMI 2.1, 1GB Ethernet, and 100W charge ports for all your gaming handheld needs.

See our bigger guide on the best deals on Steam Deck docking stations for more options!

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PRISMXR Vega T1 wireless gaming earbuds
Wireless gaming earbuds
Save 20% ($14)
PRISMXR Vega T1 wireless gaming earbuds : was $69.99 now $55.99 at Amazon
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"The PrismXR Vega T1 wireless gaming earbuds prove to be a standout choice for handheld gamers at a lower price point than its competitors. These earbuds seamlessly integrate with devices featuring a USB-C port or Bluetooth, offering convenience and versatility." ~ Jennifer Young, Contributor

Windows Central Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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Is the entry-level Steam Deck worth the investment?

Top-view of the Steam Deck's vents, USB port, audio-jack, and power button. (Image credit: Ben Wilson | Windows Central)

While the original base model of the Steam Deck may not be as advanced as its modern OLED-display counterparts, it's still one of the best gaming handhelds around, and it has not let me down in the three years I've owned it.

Its SteamOS operating system is extremely user-friendly, its controls are responsive, it's able to run most PC games with smooth performance framerates of 60fps at 1280x800 resolution. It can even run hardware-hungry games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Forza Horizon 5 at consistent 30 to 40 FPS if you lock the handheld's refresh rate to 40Hz.

The Steam Deck is also fairly durable, comfy to hold (especially for gamers with big hands like mine), and is compatible with various cloud apps to stream games like NVIDIA GeForce NOW and Xbox Cloud Gaming.

What's more is that the Steam Deck is easily upgradeable as you can outfit it with third-party shells, enhanced display screens, hall-effect sticks, custom face buttons, and larger SSDs. You can even pair it up with wireless controllers, keyboards, and mice while it's in dock mode to play games with your preferred controller method.

So, if you end up getting the OG Steam Deck through Valve's sales event and fancy some extra accessories to recharge its batteries, make certain games easier to play, or keep it safe while travelling, then check out these discounted peripherals today to enrich your Steam Deck.

We also have dedicated round-ups for microSD cards, screen protectors, Docking Stations, power banks, and chargers for your perusal, should you wish to upgrade your Steam Deck further.

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FAQ

What does the entry-level Steam Deck come with?

The entry-level Steam Deck features a 1280 x 800 LCD display, 7" Diagonal display size, 60Hz refresh rate, Wi-Fi 5, 40Whr battery with 2-8 hours of gameplay battery life, 45W Power supply with 1.5m cable, a carrying case, and a Steam profile bundle.

Is it possible to run non-Steam games on the Steam Deck?

Yes, Valve has confirmed you can run non-Steam games on it via the Steam Deck's Proton software.

Can the Steam Deck launch games offline?

Once a game has been installed onto the Steam Deck's internal SSD or microSD card, you can play games offline unless certain games require an internet connection.

However, you will need to be connected to the internet to download games, download their DLC and patch updates, and play their online multiplayer modes.

When is Cyber Monday?

Cyber Monday will start on December 1, 2025 and will last for the full day. Retailers will host electronic-focused discounts throughout the day and possibly have them last a couple of days after Cyber Monday is over.

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Alexander Cope
Alexander Cope
Contributor — Gaming

Alexander Cope is a gaming veteran of 30-plus years, primarily covering PC and Xbox games here on Windows Central. Gaming since the 8-bit era, Alexander's expertise revolves around gaming guides and news, with a particular focus on Japanese titles from the likes of Elden Ring to Final Fantasy. Alexander is always on deck to help our readers conquer the industry's most difficult games — when he can pry himself away from Monster Hunter that is!

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