What you need to know about upgrading your Steam Deck SSD

💡 Need to know

• More storage, more games. Upgrading your Steam Deck SSD lets you keep more games installed without constantly deleting old ones.
• This isn't a beginner upgrade. You'll need to open the Steam Deck, remove internal components, and reinstall SteamOS afterward.
• Back up first. Replacing the SSD wipes everything on the original drive, so save anything important before you start.
• Know the risk. A slipped tool or missed step can turn a storage upgrade into a repair. If you're not comfortable opening your Steam Deck, visit your nearest uBreakiFix by Asurion store.

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Upgrading your Steam Deck™ storage through an SSD upgrade is a great way to enhance your gaming experience by increasing the device’s capacity for games and apps. Many gamers find the standard storage options limiting, especially when they start exploring the extensive library of titles available on Steam®. But the good news is, if you notice that the amount is no longer doing it for you, you can upgrade it.

At Asurion, we have the tech know-how to tackle any fix or upgrade. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer looking to expand your game library or a new user planning for future needs, this guide will help you expand your Steam Deck’s storage effortlessly.

Can you upgrade Steam Deck storage?

Yes, the Steam Deck is designed with upgradability in mind, allowing users to replace the internal SSD. However, it's important to note that Valve (the console’s manufacturer) does not endorse this process, as it can be risky and may void your warranty.

What’s the difference between a microSD card and an SSD?

Both the microSD and the internal SSD are ways you can expand your Steam Deck storage space. The choice between using a microSD card and an SSD involves several factors, primarily revolving around speed, capacity, cost, and ease of installation.

Upgrading to an internal SSD on your Steam Deck could dramatically boost your download speeds and app launch times, while also increasing your storage capacity—SSDs can go up to 2 TB, compared to microSDs, which top out at 1 TB. While SSDs are in a similar price range as microSDs, installing them does take a bit more effort.

Why upgrading your Steam Deck’s SSD is a good idea

Expanding your Steam Deck’s storage with a compatible SSD allows you to store more games and reduces load times, making your gaming experience smoother and more enjoyable. It’s an essential upgrade for those who quickly fill up the existing storage space.

Which SSDs are compatible with the Steam Deck?

Not all SSDs will fit due to size constraints, and using an incompatible drive could damage your device. When selecting an SSD for your Steam Deck, ensure it’s a compatible M.2 2230 SSD.

Brands like Western Digital, Samsung, and Crucial often offer products that meet these requirements. These SSDs come in the correct size and have the proper connector and bus interface that are compatible with the Steam Deck.

Things to consider before you upgrade your Steam Deck storage

You’ll need a few things to start the upgrade party. If you don’t have these items on hand or are unsure if you have the tech know-how your Steam Deck will need, you can always bring on a game console expert to help.

What you’ll need to upgrade your Steam Deck SSD

Upgrading the SSD in your Steam Deck requires a few tools and some careful handling:

• A compatible M.2 2230 SSD.
• The right precision tool:
  • For the original Steam Deck (LCD Models): A Phillips #0 screwdriver
  • For the updated Steam Deck (OLED Models): A T6 Torx screwdriver
• A plastic prying pick or spudger.
• An anti-static wrist strap.
• A computer.
• A wired keyboard.
• A flash drive with at least 8 GB of space.
• A USB-A to USB-C adapter or hub.
• A clean, flat working space.
• Patience and steady hands.

Risks and considerations

Before proceeding with an SSD upgrade, consider the following risks:

• Warranty concerns. Check if upgrading the SSD voids your warranty. Valve has stated that users can replace the SSD, but it’s crucial to proceed cautiously.
• Potential for damage. Improper handling can damage the Steam Deck or the new SSD. If you’re not confident in your ability to perform the upgrade, it may be safer to seek professional help.
• Data loss. Ensure you back up any important data before upgrading, as replacing the SSD will involve wiping any data on the existing drive.

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How to upgrade your Steam Deck storage

By upgrading your SSD, you’ll have more space for your games and potentially see improvements in load times and system performance. Before upgrading, make sure you have the right tools and a backup of your Steam Deck’s data files on a microSD card. Upgrading your SSD will erase all existing data on the device. Remember, if you feel uncomfortable performing this upgrade, you can reach out to a game console repair expert.

Before you start

A little prep work can save a lot of headaches later.

1. Power off your Steam Deck completely.
2. Remove any microSD card installed in the system.
3. Update SteamOS by going to Settings > System > Software Updates > Check for Updates.
4. Give it a good cleaning. Wipe down the exterior and make sure you're working in a clean, well-lit area.

Put the Steam Deck into Battery Storage Mode

This step helps prevent accidental electrical damage while you're working inside the device.

1. Make sure the Steam Deck is powered off and unplugged.
2. Hold Volume Up (+) and press the Power button.
3. When the BIOS menu appears, select Setup Utility > Power.
4. Choose Battery Storage Mode and confirm.

The Steam Deck will power down completely and is now safe to open.

Remove the back cover

Place the Steam Deck face down on a soft towel or work mat.

• LCD models: Remove the 8 rear screws using a Phillips #0 screwdriver.
• OLED models: Remove the 8 rear screws using a T6 Torx screwdriver.

Once the screws are out, use a plastic opening tool to carefully separate the back cover from the frame.

Replace the SSD

With the back cover removed, locate the SSD beneath the internal shield.

1. Remove the shield covering the SSD.
2. Remove the SSD retaining screw.
3. Slide the original SSD out of the slot.
4. Transfer the shielding sleeve from the old SSD to the new one.
5. Insert the new M.2 2230 SSD into the slot.
6. Reinstall the retaining screw and shield.

Once everything is secure, reinstall the back cover and screws.

Reinstall SteamOS

Your new SSD will be completely blank, so you'll need to reinstall SteamOS.

1. Download the SteamOS Recovery Image from Valve's website using another computer.
2. Create a bootable recovery drive using a tool such as Rufus or BalenaEtcher.
3. Connect the recovery drive to your Steam Deck using a USB-C adapter.
4. Hold Volume Down (-) and press the Power button.
5. Select the recovery drive from the boot menu.
6. When the recovery environment loads, choose Reimage Steam Deck.

The installation process will restore SteamOS and prepare the new SSD for use.