In the ever-evolving world of gaming, storage limitations have become a hot topic of discussion. With the release of Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, which requires a jaw-dropping 213GB of storage space, gamers are searching for creative solutions to ensure they can enjoy multiple AAA titles simultaneously. Enter the Steam Deck, a gaming device that has captured the attention of enthusiasts worldwide. This article delves into the exciting realm of the Steam Deck’s storage capabilities, exploring the staggering 61TB upgrade that promises to revolutionize portable gaming.
The default factory-spec Steam Deck offers a maximum of 512GB of storage space, which initially seems limited considering the astronomical storage requirements of certain games. However, it is crucial to note that not all titles demand the same amount of space. While Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 pushes the boundaries with its colossal storage footprint, most games are more forgiving. Additionally, opting for high-resolution asset caches, which consume a whopping 64GB, may not be a realistic choice for many gamers. Therefore, the storage limitations of the Steam Deck, though significant, might not be as dire as they initially appear.
Recognizing the need for a truly comprehensive storage solution, Storage Review ventured into uncharted territory by testing a remarkable 61.44TB upgrade for the Steam Deck. This upgrade involved employing an M.2 to U.2 adapter and a Solidigm P5336 61.44TB drive typically found in server farms. Undoubtedly, such an extensive upgrade compromises the Deck’s ergonomics and portability. The need to remove the rear casing and connect it to a separate ATX PSU highlights the sacrifices one must make for unparalleled storage capacity. Nevertheless, for those seeking to address the battery life dilemma, this dramatic upgrade may offer a potential solution.
Storage Review’s testing revealed intriguing results concerning the performance of the upgraded storage solution. Sequential performance saw a modest improvement compared to the factory-installed 256GB drive, demonstrating the advantages of the upgrade. However, 4K random reads experienced a slight decline. While these findings may not drastically impact gameplay, they provide valuable insights into the trade-offs associated with such a storage upgrade.
As with any groundbreaking technology, the 61TB upgrade comes at a cost. Interested individuals should be prepared to invest approximately $3,500 for this exceptional storage solution. It is clear that this upgrade may not be accessible to all gamers, highlighting the premium nature of cutting-edge innovations. However, as advancements continue in the field of gaming technology, the availability and affordability of high-capacity drives are likely to improve over time.
While the 61TB upgrade offers unparalleled storage potential, it is important to consider more practical options available to gamers. The Steam Deck employs the compact 2230 M.2 form factor, which differs from the more common and longer 2280 M.2 form factor. Consequently, 2230 M.2 drives tend to be slightly more expensive. However, a quick glance at the SSD deals page reveals that a regular M.2 2280 2TB drive can be obtained for under $100, while a 2TB 2230 drive costs around $140. These alternatives may not match the exceptional storage capacity of the 61TB upgrade, but they offer a viable solution for gamers looking to install multiple space-intensive games without breaking the bank.
As the gaming industry continues to push boundaries and introduce increasingly demanding titles, storage limitations remain an important consideration. The Steam Deck, with its awe-inspiring 61TB upgrade, symbolizes a bold step towards solving this dilemma. While this specific enhancement may not be accessible to all gamers due to its high price point, it is indicative of the innovative progress being made in the field. As technology advances and becomes more affordable, the dream of seamlessly juggling multiple AAA titles on portable gaming devices may become a reality for all gamers.
The advent of the Steam Deck and its jaw-dropping 61TB storage upgrade has sparked excitement among gamers worldwide. Although the limitations of the factory-spec Deck may initially seem constricting, alternatives are proving to be both practical and cost-effective. The gaming community eagerly anticipates further advancements in storage technology that will enable the seamless installation of vast libraries of AAA titles. As the industry marches forward, the future of gaming is set to offer limitless possibilities, guaranteeing an exhilarating experience for all enthusiasts.
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