Just days following Valve's acknowledgment that escalating RAM scarcity and costs are disrupting its device strategies, the entire Steam Deck lineup has vanished from availability. While the portable gaming device has experienced intermittent stock fluctuations previously, as highlighted by Kotaku, this occurrence prompts speculation on whether the memory constraints are now hindering Valve's Linux-based console.
The 256GB variant of the LCD-equipped Steam Deck, along with the 512GB and 1TB editions of the OLED model, are all currently unavailable through Steam. In December 2025, Valve revealed plans to phase out the LCD configurations and deplete existing supplies, making the absence of the 256GB LCD option predictable. However, the simultaneous unavailability of the OLED variants stands out as noteworthy.
Engadget has reached out to Valve seeking details on Steam Deck stock levels. Any response received will prompt an update to this report.
During the reveal of the Steam Machine, Steam Controller, and Steam Link, Valve omitted specifics on costs and launch timelines, likely due to uncertainties from tariffs and RAM procurement. The recent disclosure that supply disruptions in memory and storage components are delaying initiatives and expected to influence pricing essentially validated those earlier hesitations. Although the Steam Deck was not flagged as vulnerable in that update, it appears the oversight might warrant reconsideration.
The surging expenses for RAM have compelled various PC manufacturers to revise their product pricing. In January, Framework disclosed a price increase for its Framework Desktop of up to $460. Industry experts predict that the RAM deficit, fueled by artificial intelligence demands, may result in elevated costs and broader economic challenges across the personal computing sector. It is hoped that the Steam Deck's current stockout represents a short-term glitch rather than an indicator of major shifts by Valve. Should the situation persist, however, modifications to the device could become inevitable.