Do You Play Steam Deck Plugged In?
The Steam Deck, Valve’s latest attempt to revolutionize the world of PC gaming, has been a topic of excitement and debate among gamers since its release. One question that has been on the minds of many is: should you play the Steam Deck plugged in? In this article, we will delve into the pros and cons of playing the Steam Deck plugged in and help you make an informed decision.
The General Consensus
According to users on the Steam Deck forums, the general consensus is "Yes, but don’t make a habit of it." While it is safe to play games on the Steam Deck while it is charging, it’s essential to keep in mind that the way the battery recharges is that it powers up to 100%, then internally disables the power cable connection. This means that leaving the Steam Deck plugged in for extended periods can be detrimental to its battery life.
Benefits of Playing Plugged In
However, there are some benefits to playing the Steam Deck plugged in:
- Faster Charging: When you’re playing a long gaming session, you may not want to worry about the battery life. Playing plugged in ensures that you can get back to playing quickly.
- Consistent Performance: Playing plugged in means that you’ll have consistent performance, as the power supply won’t be fluctuating due to battery charge levels.
- Avoid Battery Drain: If you’re playing for extended periods, playing plugged in helps to avoid battery drain and prolongs the life of your battery.
Drawbacks of Playing Plugged In
On the other hand, there are some drawbacks to playing the Steam Deck plugged in:
- Reduced Battery Life: Leaving the Steam Deck plugged in for extended periods can reduce its battery life.
- Increased Wear and Tear: Playing plugged in means that the power supply and charging circuitry will be under constant use, which can lead to increased wear and tear.
- Lack of Flexibility: Playing plugged in means you’ll be limited to playing near a power source, which can be inconvenient for those who prefer to game on the go.
Best Practices
So, what’s the best way to play the Steam Deck? Here are some best practices to consider:
- Charge before playing: Make sure your Steam Deck is fully charged before starting a gaming session.
- Monitor your battery level: Keep an eye on your battery level and charge your Steam Deck when it’s below 20% to avoid unnecessary battery drain.
- Use the power adapter wisely: When playing plugged in, make sure to keep the power adapter away from heat sources and avoid plugging and unplugging the adapter frequently.
Table: Comparing Playing Plugged In vs. Battery Life
| Playing Plugged In | Playing Battery Life | |
|---|---|---|
| Faster Charging | ||
| Consistent Performance | ||
| Avoid Battery Drain | ||
| Reduced Battery Life | ||
| Increased Wear and Tear | ||
| Lack of Flexibility |
As you can see from the table above, playing the Steam Deck plugged in offers some benefits, but at the expense of battery life and wear and tear.
Conclusion
In conclusion, playing the Steam Deck plugged in is not a bad thing, but it’s essential to be mindful of the potential drawbacks. By following best practices, such as charging before playing and monitoring your battery level, you can enjoy your gaming sessions while minimizing the impact on your battery life. Whether you choose to play plugged in or battery life depends on your gaming style and preferences. With the Steam Deck, Valve has provided a versatile device that caters to a wide range of gamers.