So you’ve decided to delve into the world of gaming but you can’t decide between a handheld device and a powerful console? The current best options in handheld and console categories are the Steam Deck and the PS5 respectively. But which device is more suitable for you? Syntech will help you decide.

We’re going to take a look into each device and untangle the intricacies to learn what makes these gaming behemoths different in terms of power, features, and performance. Read on to learn more about these gaming behemoths!

Steam Deck: The Greatest Handheld to Exist

After its release in February 2022, Steam Deck gained a huge fan following. The device only had an LCD version back then. Recently, in November 2023, Valve released the OLED version of Steam Deck. With the brighter screen and new features in the OLED model, the OLED model has become a must-have.

Steam Deck isn’t just popular for its ability to play games, it is popular because the users can convert this device into an office PC. Valve’s handheld allows users to emulate different games and Windows OS. A good Docking Station is all they need to get started.

1. Specifications

This model features a 7" 1280x800 OLED touchscreen with HDR support and a 60 Hz refresh rate. Storage options range from 64GB to 512GB NVMe PCIe Gen 3 SSD, the user can add a microSD card to increase storage. The battery is 40Wh, the playtime depends on many processing-related factors.

2. Performance

The reason we’re comparing the Steam Deck vs PS5 is because the Steam Deck is a powerful gaming handheld. If you were to look at current gaming handhelds, Steam Deck comes out at the top. Armed with a dynamic AMD Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU combination, the Steam Deck packs a punch within its compact frame.

3. Game Compatibilities

Steam Deck is a portable machine with a powerful mobile processor that allows you compatibility with games that run on SteamOS and other PC games. Other than these titles, it allows users to use various emulators so that they can play games made for other gaming handhelds.

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PlayStation 5: A Revolutionary Gaming Console

PlayStation 5 was released back in November 2020 and became a trendy choice for console gamers. It made record-breaking sales, followed by an unprecedented shortage in supply. PlayStation 5 also released 2 variants, a disc edition, and a digital edition.

This gaming device features the most powerful processor for computing. PlayStation 5 was revolutionary because it was the first to support more than 30 FPS.

1. Specifications

The PlayStation 5 supports a 4K HDR TV with up to 120Hz refresh rate, which is great for consoles. The processor is an AMD Zen 2-based custom CPU with 8c/16t cores, with 16GB of GDDR6. The storage for the console is 825GB NVMe SSD.

2. Performance

PlayStation 5 harnesses the formidable prowess of an AMD Zen 2 CPU and RDNA 2 GPU. It showcases a graphical processing power that surpasses the Steam Deck. This results in awe-inspiring 4K visuals. Users get a fluid FPS ranging from 60 to 120 FPS in many contemporary titles.

3. Game Compatibilities

While the PS5 is not portable, it does offer graphics and performance that have never been seen on a console. Sony also offers exclusive AAA titles for the PS5 like God of War and the Infamous series. Let's not forget that PlayStation 5 also comes with a phenomenal gaming controller!

Conclusion

When considering which console to buy, it is very important to consider how you’re going to use it. While the PS5 is more powerful in terms of computing power, it’s not for gaming on the go.

Steam Deck excels in terms of portability and has a built-in HDR-supported display, a great choice for gaming on the go.

With a Steam Deck, you get more than a gaming handheld, you get a whole gaming PC. The handheld can easily be converted into a PC with the right Docking Station.  You can have a dedicated gaming console or a versatile handheld gaming device. Remember, both of these are gaming devices amazing!