Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) vs Steam Deck

The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) and Steam Deck are two highly anticipated gaming consoles offering different gaming experiences. The PS5 is a powerful home console with exclusive titles and advanced features, while the Steam Deck is a portable handheld device that allows players to access their Steam library on the go.

General information

Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Steam Deck
Introduction :
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is the latest generation of Sony's highly popular gaming console series. Released in 2020, the PS5 has quickly become a must-have item for gamers worldwide. With its powerful hardware, lightning-fast load times, and stunning graphics, the PS5 offers an immersive gaming experience like never before. Its innovative DualSense controller and exclusive game titles make it a standout choice for both casual and hardcore gamers.
Introduction :
The Steam Deck is a highly anticipated handheld gaming console developed by Valve Corporation, set to release in late 2021. It runs on a custom AMD APU and features a 7-inch touchscreen display. With the ability to play PC games on the go, the Steam Deck has generated a lot of excitement among gamers. It is expected to be a popular choice for those looking for a portable gaming experience with the power of a PC.
Advantages :
  • Faster loading times for games and applications
  • Improved graphics and performance for next-gen games
  • Backwards compatibility with PS4 games
  • DualSense controller with innovative haptic feedback
  • 4K Blu-ray player for high-quality media playback
Advantages :
  • Portable design allows for gaming on the go
  • Powerful hardware for smooth gameplay performance
  • Extensive library of games available on Steam platform
  • Customizable controls for personalized gaming experience
  • Ability to connect to external displays for larger gaming sessions
Disadvantages :
  • Limited backwards compatibility with older PlayStation games.
  • Higher price point compared to previous PlayStation consoles.
  • Limited availability due to high demand and production constraints.
  • Large size and bulky design may not fit well in all entertainment setups.
  • Limited storage capacity for games and media compared to other consoles.
Disadvantages :
  • Limited game library compared to established consoles.
  • Potential hardware issues due to new technology.
  • Higher price point compared to other handheld consoles.
  • Limited availability and potential shipping delays.
  • Uncertainty of long-term support and updates.
Year launched : 2020
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) was launched in 2020, introducing cutting-edge technology and enhanced gaming experiences to players worldwide, marking a significant advancement in the gaming console industry.
Year launched : 2021
The Steam Deck was launched in 2021, offering a new and innovative handheld gaming experience for players looking to enjoy their favorite PC games on the go.
Manufacturer : Sony
Sony is the manufacturer of the PlayStation 5 (PS5), the latest gaming console in the PlayStation series known for its cutting-edge technology and exclusive game titles.
Manufacturer : Valve Corporation
Valve Corporation, known for the popular gaming platform Steam, is the manufacturer of the Steam Deck. This handheld gaming console combines the power of PC gaming with the portability of a handheld device.
🟢 Popularity : High.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is currently one of the most popular and sought-after gaming consoles on the market. It has sold millions of units and has a significant share of the gaming console market.
🟡 Popularity : Average.
The Steam Deck has generated moderate interest among gamers and tech enthusiasts. While not as popular as mainstream consoles like PlayStation or Xbox, it has carved out a niche market due to its unique features and capabilities.
Form factor : Home console.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is designed as a home console, meant to be used in a stationary location for immersive gaming experiences on a TV or monitor.
Form factor : Handheld console.
The Steam Deck is designed as a portable console, allowing gamers to take their favorite games on the go with a handheld form factor for gaming on the move.


Market and availability

Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Steam Deck
Console markets :
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is available in various markets worldwide, including North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. It has been released in multiple countries and regions to meet global demand.
Console markets :
The Steam Deck is available for purchase worldwide, with shipping options to most countries. However, availability may vary depending on demand and production capacity, so it's recommended to check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
⚪ Collectible : Unknown.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is still a current generation console, so its status as retro or collectible is uncertain. However, with its popularity and limited availability, it could potentially become collectible in the future.
⚪ Collectible : Unknown.
The Steam Deck is a new console, so its retro/collectible status is currently unknown. Depending on its popularity and longevity, it may become a sought-after item in the future.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is currently available in limited quantities at retail stores, with occasional restocks. Secondhand market prices are high due to high demand and low supply.
🟡 Console availability : Average.
The Steam Deck is relatively new, so availability may vary. While new units may be limited, secondhand market options could be more accessible. Keep an eye out for listings from reputable sellers.
🔴 Console cost : High.
The relative cost of the Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is considered high due to its high demand, limited availability, and premium features. It may be more expensive compared to older console models.
⚪ Console cost : Unknown.
The relative cost of the Steam Deck is currently unknown as it is a new release and availability may vary. It is recommended to compare prices with other gaming consoles for a better understanding.
🟢 Game availability : Good.
Games for the Sony PlayStation 5 are readily available, with a wide selection of new releases and popular titles. Additionally, many older PS4 games are compatible with the PS5, expanding the library even further.
🟢 Game availability : Good.
Steam Deck has a wide range of games available through the Steam platform, offering a diverse selection of popular and indie titles. Additionally, the console's compatibility with PC games enhances its game library.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Sony PlayStation 5 is average compared to other gaming consoles. While some titles may be more expensive due to high demand, there are also affordable options available.
🟡 Game costs : Average.
The relative cost of games for the Steam Deck is average compared to other games consoles. While some games may be more expensive due to exclusivity, overall prices are reasonable.


Technology

Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Steam Deck
Architecture : 64-bit.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) uses a 64-bit architecture, providing powerful performance for gaming and multimedia experiences. This advanced architecture allows for high-quality graphics, fast loading times, and seamless gameplay.
Architecture : 64-bit.
The Steam Deck uses a 64-bit architecture, providing powerful performance for gaming and multitasking. This architecture allows for smooth gameplay and efficient processing of graphics and data.
CPU : AMD Ryzen Zen 2
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) uses an AMD Ryzen Zen 2 CPU, featuring 8 cores and 16 threads. This powerful CPU provides high performance for gaming and multitasking on the console.
CPU : AMD Zen 2 architecture
The Steam Deck uses a custom AMD APU based on the Zen 2 architecture, offering powerful performance for gaming on the go. With 8 cores and 16 threads, it provides excellent processing power.
Memory : 825 Gb
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) comes with 825 Gb of memory, providing ample storage space for games, apps, and media content, ensuring a smooth gaming experience without the need for frequent storage management.
Memory : 64 GB
The Steam Deck comes with 64 GB of internal storage, providing ample space for storing games, apps, and other content. This allows for a wide variety of games to be downloaded and played.
Video output : HDMI
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is equipped with HDMI output connections, which are commonly used to connect to modern TVs and monitors for high-quality video and audio transmission.
Video output : HDMI
The Steam Deck is equipped with an HDMI output connection, allowing users to easily connect the console to modern TVs and monitors for an enhanced gaming experience.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is equipped with a dedicated GPU, the AMD RDNA 2-based custom GPU, offering advanced graphics performance and ray tracing capabilities for an immersive gaming experience.
🟢 Graphics Processing : Yes.
The Steam Deck is equipped with a dedicated GPU, providing enhanced graphics performance for gaming. This allows for smoother gameplay and better visual quality compared to integrated graphics solutions.
🟢 Internet connected : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is internet connected, featuring both Ethernet and Wi-Fi capabilities for online gaming, streaming, and downloading games and updates.
🟢 Internet connected : Yes.
The Steam Deck is internet connected through both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology, allowing for online gaming, downloading updates, and accessing the Steam store for new games and content.
Game media format : Download.
The primary game format for the Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) is digital downloads. Players can purchase and download games directly from the PlayStation Store onto the console's internal storage.
Game media format : Download.
The primary game format for the Steam Deck is digital downloads. Players can purchase and download games directly from the Steam platform onto the device for convenient access to their gaming library.


Gaming

Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5)
Steam Deck
Controllers : 4
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) supports up to 4 controllers for multiplayer gaming, allowing for a more immersive and competitive gaming experience with friends and family on a single console.
Controllers : Up to 4 controllers/players
The Steam Deck supports multiplayer gaming with up to 4 controllers or players connected to the console simultaneously, allowing for a fun and engaging gaming experience with friends and family.
🟢 Online multiplayer : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 5 (PS5) allows players to enjoy multiplayer online gaming with friends and other players around the world, offering a dynamic and engaging gaming experience.
🟢 Online multiplayer : Yes.
The Steam Deck allows for multiplayer online gaming, providing a seamless experience for playing with friends or other gamers around the world. Enjoy competitive matches and cooperative gameplay on this portable console.
🟢 Number of titles : Good.
Game titles for the Sony PlayStation 5 have been released consistently with a good variety of exclusive and third-party titles available. The console's popularity ensures a strong market for new and used games.
🟢 Number of titles : Good.
Game titles for the Steam Deck have been released consistently with a wide variety of options available. The console's popularity has also led to a strong secondhand market for games.
🟢 Featured games : Yes.
The Sony PlayStation 5 has exclusive games such as Demon's Souls, Spider-Man: Miles Morales, and Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart, which are highly acclaimed and showcase the console's capabilities.
⚪ Featured games : Unknown.
The Steam Deck does not have any exclusive games announced at this time. It is primarily designed to run PC games and offer a portable gaming experience.


When choosing between the Sony PlayStation 5 and Steam Deck, it ultimately comes down to your gaming preferences and lifestyle. If you prefer high-quality graphics and exclusive titles for home gaming, the PS5 is the way to go. On the other hand, if you value portability and the ability to play your Steam library anywhere, the Steam Deck is the perfect choice. Both consoles offer unique gaming experiences that cater to different needs.