The Steam Deck 2 is a dedicated handheld gaming device that offers local gameplay, while GeForce NOW Ultimate provides access to high-end gaming through cloud streaming. The best choice depends on individual preferences regarding portability, internet dependency, and game library access.
| Attribute | Steam Deck 2 | GeForce NOW Ultimate |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Steam Deck 2 | GeForce NOW Ultimate |
| Screen Size and Resolution | Rumors suggest a display upgrade to 900p (1600 x 900) with a 90Hz refresh rate. It is also speculated that the screen will be OLED. Some users hope for an 8-inch screen. | Streams up to 4K resolution at 60 FPS or 1080p at 240 FPS. Supports ultrawide resolutions. |
| Processor (CPU) | Potential upgrades include newer AMD Ryzen processors, such as the Z1 Extreme or Z2 Extreme. There is speculation that it may use an AMD "Magnus" APU with Zen 6 architecture. | Uses an AMD Ryzen 16-core processor. Some servers may use an Intel CC150 8 Core CPU. |
| Graphics Card (GPU) | May feature a GPU with 16 CUs, potentially based on AMD's RDNA 4 architecture. Some rumors suggest the higher-end APUs could offer performance on par with an RTX 4070 Max-Q. | Employs an NVIDIA RTX 4080-class GPU in the cloud. The RTX 4080 is based on the Ada Lovelace architecture. Specifically, it uses the L40G Ada Lovelace GPU, which has 24GB of GDDR6 memory and 18,176 CUDA cores. |
| RAM | Some users are hoping for at least 24GB, or ideally 32GB, for better longevity and performance in newer games. | Minimum 4GB RAM is required. |
| Storage Capacity | It is anticipated that the Steam Deck 2 may introduce larger SSD options, potentially up to 1TB or more. | Not applicable as games are streamed, not stored locally. |
| Battery Life (Gaming) | The OLED 2.0 can deliver up to 12 hours of gameplay on less demanding titles. | Not applicable as games are streamed, so battery life depends on the device used to access the service. |
| Cloud Gaming Support | Information on specific native cloud gaming services is not available in the provided context. | GeForce NOW is a dedicated cloud gaming service. |
| Game Compatibility (Native vs. Streaming) | A Steam Deck 2 using AMD hardware should have essentially the same compatible games list as the older device. | Games are streamed from the cloud, so native compatibility isn't a factor. It connects to your existing game libraries on Steam, Epic Games Store, Ubisoft Connect, and GOG. |
| Ergonomics and Comfort | Valve could make small ergonomic adjustments to improve comfort, as some users found the original Steam Deck bulky. | This is dependent on the device you are using to access the service. |
| Weight | Not available | Not applicable as games are streamed. |
| Connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) | Not available | Requires a stable internet connection. NVIDIA recommends a hardwired Ethernet connection or a 5 GHz Wi-Fi connection. Bluetooth is relevant for connecting peripherals to your local device. |
| Price | $399 to $699 | Current: $9.99 a month (discounted, limited time). Original: $19.99 a month or $99.99 for six months. |
| Ratings | Not available | Overall: Not available. Performance: Enhanced performance with RTX 4080 servers, up to 4K resolution, higher frame rates (up to 240 FPS). |