I got it almost when the first batches were being sent out. The Steam Deck is a portable controller + computer that runs SteamOS, a Linux distribution made by Valve where you can easily play many of the games on Steam. What's not to like? For many people, it has been the easiest way to move their gaming out of Windows, the land where you don't own your computer. 

Linux is the endgame solution for our long-term freedom and user empowerment, but historically, you pay for it with your time, and there aren't a lot of options to pay with your money instead. But Valve hardware has become such an option. Out of the box, the Deck is just a handheld console for your Steam games. But whenever you need more control, it's just a Linux computer with a desktop, shell and package manager. You can connect any Bluetooth accessory, save games in an SD card, replace your storage, all the good stuff. There's an official dock, but you can also use whatever. Yes, plug a monitor, mouse, keyboard and it's just a computer.

Performance is on par with a decent laptop and the battery lasts around two hours. The  Deck can run heavy games like Elden Ring or Cyberpunk 2070, but is more meant for Dredge, Hades II or Vampire Survivors. Fan noise isn't an issue but the middle of the unit gets really hot. Ergonomics is my main gripe with an otherwise awesome device. Without the help of accessories, I can't find a comfortable position to sit with it for more than a few minutes. My feeling is that I'm holding the top corners of a heavy flaming brick.

My current solution relies on the case that comes with every Deck and a metal stand that can fold to be carried with it. I found this stand on Amazon by also looking for Nintendo Switch accessories. Sitting down, I put the official case between my knees, balance the stand on top, and let it hold the flaming hot middle of the Steam Deck while I play. This little elevation makes a lot of difference.

The screen is also ergonomically limited. Depending on the game, you may have trouble reading some parts of the interface. Mine is the original Steam Deck, so the screen is also not bright enough to really play outside. Overall, portability for me isn't great. More and more, I've been pairing the Deck with a projector or a monitor. With the official dock, you can connect power, ethernet, HDMI, Xbox controllers... and it's just a console now.

So now I'm faced with the conundrum of maybe replacing my old tower PC plus my Steam Deck with a single Steam Machine. Consumer electronics are in a tough place, pressured by taxation, chronic supply shortage, and the AI hype bubble. I appreciate the upgradeability of my tower PC, but living space is also at a premium. The tiny Steam Machine (aka the Gabe Cube) may be a good compromise for the future. And a well-loved Deck can be a nice Christmas present for a friend.