The Xbox Series X Gen 2 is a powerhouse console with superior GPU performance and confirmed backward compatibility, making it ideal for gamers prioritizing high-fidelity graphics and a vast library of older Xbox titles. The Steam Deck 2, with its portability and access to the Steam library, caters to gamers who value flexibility and on-the-go gaming. The choice depends on whether performance and a dedicated console experience are more important than portability and access to the Steam ecosystem.
| Attribute | Xbox Series X Gen 2 | Steam Deck 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Name | Xbox Series X Gen 2 | Steam Deck 2 |
| CPU Clock Speed | Custom 8-core Zen 2 CPU, 3.8 GHz (3.66 GHz with SMT) | Expected to be faster and more efficient than the original Steam Deck's 2.4 GHz to 3.5 GHz. |
| GPU Performance (FLOPS) | 12.155 teraflops | The Steam Deck's GPU delivers 1.6 TFlops of performance. |
| RAM Capacity | 16 GB GDDR6 SDRAM (10 GB at 560 GB/s, 6 GB at 336 GB/s) | The Steam Deck has 16 GB of LPDDR5 RAM. Some anticipate that the Steam Deck 2 may have more RAM. |
| Storage Capacity | 1 TB NVMe SSD (802 GB usable) | The Steam Deck is available with 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB NVMe SSD options, plus microSD card support. |
| Display Resolution | 4K at 60 FPS, up to 120 FPS, up to 8K | Some sources suggest the Steam Deck 2 may have a higher resolution screen than the Steam Deck's 1280 x 800 display. |
| Refresh Rate | Up to 120Hz at 4K and 1440p | The Steam Deck has up to a 60Hz refresh rate, while the OLED version has up to 90Hz. |
| Battery Life (Gaming) | Not applicable | The Steam Deck's battery life ranges from 2-8 hours, while the OLED version has 3-12 hours of gameplay. |
| Game Library Size | Backward compatible with nearly all Xbox One-compatible games and accessories, including Xbox 360 and original Xbox games | The Steam Deck can access your entire Steam library. |
| Ergonomics and Comfort | Redesigned controller with re-sculpted grips and tactile textured effect | The Steam Deck is built for extended play sessions with full-size controls. |
| Connectivity (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) | 3x USB 3.1 Gen 1, HDMI 2.1, 802.11ac dual-band wireless, 1Gbps Ethernet | The Steam Deck includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The OLED version has Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. |
| Backward Compatibility | Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox games | The Steam Deck is expected to have backward compatibility, similar to a PC. |
| Cooling System | Highly engineered airflow design and a powerful, quiet fan | Not available |
| Price | $600 (with disc drive), $550 (Digital), $729 (2TB Galaxy Special Edition) - As of May 1, 2025 | $399 to $799 (estimated) |
| Pros | Backward compatibility with older Xbox games, High-performance CPU and GPU, Fast loading times with NVMe SSD, Enhanced controller ergonomics, Quiet cooling system | Expected faster and more efficient processor, Potential for higher resolution screen, Access to entire Steam library, Designed for comfortable extended play sessions, Expected backward compatibility |
| Cons | Usable storage may be insufficient for large game libraries, Frame rate depends on the game and its optimization | Not available |