How to upgrade an SSD on Steam Deck: Step-by-step instructions with pictures
We recommend the Western Digital SN770M SSD, which is available in 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB capacities.
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•What you need•How to backup•How to install a new SSD•SSD upgrade FAQ
When I first purchased mySteam Deck, I decided to go with the 64GB version in order to save money. However, I soon realized that being limited on storage space was rather inconvenient. As such, I was excited to upgrade my SSD on thegaming handheldas soon as I could. Thankfully, the upgrade process is pretty easy.
If you’re in the same boat and want to upgrade your Steam Deck SSD, then here are the step-by-step instructions for swapping out the original drive for a new SSD. I’ll also cover suggestions for how to backup your game data and explain how to reinstall SteamOS once the new SSD has been put in place. Let’s get started.
What you need to upgrade Steam Deck SSD
Before you can upgrade your Steam Deck SSD, you’ll need to make sure you have everything you need for the installation process. This includes the SSD itself, a flash drive for reinstalling SteamOS, a tool kit, and a means of grounding yourself so you don’t accidentally damage the device with static shocks.
WD_BLACK SN770M NVMe 1TB SSD |was $129.99now $109.99 at Best Buy ($20 off)
Increase the internal SSD storage space of your compatible gaming handheld with this upgrade that can reach fast read speeds up to 5,150 MB/s. You’ll need to open your device, remove the original SSD, and then install this one in the Steam Deck. It’s available in 512GB, 1TB, and 2TB capacities.Buy 1TB version at:Best Buy|Western DigitalBuy 2TB version at:Best Buy|Western Digital
Vastar 17pcs Screwdriver Set | See at Amazon
This handy set comes with six different kinds of magnetic tip screwdrivers, which are ideal for working with various gaming handheld devices. There are also tweezers and a plastic triangle casing opener to help you interact with specific components or to help open casings more easily.
Buy at:Amazon
Vastar anti-static wrist strap | See at Amazon
Wear this grounding bracelet while working on electronics to reduce the risk of accidentally damaging the device with static shocks.
Buy at:Amazon
SanDisk 128GB Dual Drive Go USB-C Flash Drive | See at Walmart
You’ll need to plug this or a similar thumb drive into the Steam Deck’s USB-C port after installing the new SSD if you want to reinstall SteamOS on the gaming handheld.
Buy at:Walmart
Samsung T7 Shield 1TB | See at Amazon
If you want to backup your old SSD before making the upgrade, you’ll want to have a reliable place to store game data. If you don’t have a usable laptop or desktop, then an SSD like this Samsung T7 Shield is a great option. It’s available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities.
Buy at:Amazon
How to backup Steam Deck SSD
Pro tip: Google Drive is a good free storage service if your account has the space needed. Otherwise, an SSD works well for this.
How to install a new SSD on Steam Deck
NOTE: There are two possible Steam Deck layouts depending on what version you have — older models have a silver motherboard shield while newer models have a black motherboard backing. This guide will cover what to do for either one.
Now that these steps have been followed, you now have the new SSD installed in your Steam Deck. However, the gaming handheld doesn’t currently have SteamOS on it. Don’t worry. I’ll cover how to install that in the next section.
How to install SteamOS on your Steam Deck
With the new SSD in place, it’s time to reimage the Steam Deck and get SteamOS installed on it again. Here’s what to do.
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At this point, the Steam Deck is all ready to go with a shiny new SSD inside of it. Have fun playing your games while (hopefully) having more storage space than you previously did with the old SSD.
How to upgrade Steam Deck SSD FAQ
People undoubtedly have questions when it comes to the Steam Deck’s SSD, so I’ve rounded up the most commonly asked questions and provided answers.
What SSD is compatible with Steam Deck?
Both the Steam Deck LCD and Steam Deck OLED both have a PCIe 3.0 M.2 NVMe SSD slot, which is ideal for the smaller SSD size. As such, the WD_BLACK SN770M NVMe is an ideal SSD for the Steam Deck and many other gaming handhelds. It’s available in 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB capacities.
Should I backup my Steam Deck before upgrading the SSD?
Yes. It’s a good idea to clone or back up the old Steam Deck SSD before replacing it with an upgrade. That way, your game data for sure won’t be lost.
What size SSD should I put in Steam Deck?
While there are 512GB SSDs out there, you’ll be better served if you go for a 1TB or 2TB SSD. More storage capacity means there is room for more games, which will make it so you don’t have to rearrange your storage space nearly as often.
Enjoy having more storage space on your handheld
•Best Steam Deck power banks•Best Steam Deck microSD cards•Best Steam Deck accessories•Best Steam Deck screen protectors•Best gaming handhelds
The Steam Deck becomes a lot more convenient to use when you have enough storage space to handle a decent game library right on the device. If you happened to purchase a lower storage capacity option, then it’s nice knowing you have the option to install a larger SSD like the Western Digital SN770M.
Thankfully, the SSD installation process really isn’t that difficult. As long as you take the time to clear a clean space and are gentle when making the swap, you’ll have more storage space in your gaming handheld in no time.
Enjoy being able to download more games locally without having to worry about deleting or otherwise rearranging your data as much.
Self-professed gaming geek, Rebecca Spear, is one of Windows Central’s editors and reviewers with a focus on gaming handhelds, PC gaming, and laptops. When she isn’t checking out the latest games on Xbox Game Pass, PC, ROG Ally, or Steam Deck; she can be found digital drawing with a Wacom tablet. She’s written thousands of articles with everything from editorials, reviews, previews, features, previews, and hardware reviews over the last few years. If you need information about anything gaming-related, her articles can help you out. She also loves testing game accessories and any new tech on the market. You can follow her@rrspearon X (formerly Twitter).
