No, Steam Deck is not waterproof. Neither LED or OLED version. It’s a PC, so water will damage it. A quick splash of water might not be enough to damage it, but if if does have contact with water – power it off and let it try in rice as fast as you can.
Why Steam Deck is not waterproof?
The Steam Deck is not designed to be waterproof for several reasons related to its internal components and overall functionality.
- Active Cooling System: The Steam Deck relies on an active cooling system, which typically includes fans to dissipate heat generated during gaming. Waterproofing the device would compromise the airflow required for effective cooling.
- Ventilation: The device has vents for proper airflow to maintain optimal operating temperatures. Waterproofing these vents would obstruct the airflow, potentially leading to overheating issues.
- Component Vulnerability: The internal components of electronic devices are often sensitive to moisture. Water can cause corrosion, short circuits, and other forms of damage to circuitry, leading to malfunctions or permanent failure.
- Design Trade-offs: Achieving waterproofing while maintaining the device’s slim form factor and allowing for efficient cooling is a challenging engineering task. Manufacturers may prioritize other features, such as performance, size, and weight, over waterproofing for a gaming device like the Steam Deck.
- User Safety: Introducing water resistance or waterproofing features would require additional design considerations to ensure the safety of users. This includes sealing vulnerable areas, which might increase the risk of overheating or compromise the overall integrity of the device.
My Steam Deck got wet. What do I do?!
If your Steam Deck has come into contact with water, here are some general steps you can take to minimize potential damage and increase the chances of recovery:
- Power Off Immediately:
- Turn off the Steam Deck as quickly as possible to prevent any short circuits or electrical damage. If it’s already off, leave it off.
- Remove External Connections:
- Disconnect any external cables, chargers, or accessories connected to the device.
- Dry the Exterior:
- Gently dry the external surfaces of the Steam Deck using a soft, absorbent cloth or towel.
- Remove External Accessories:
- If you have any external accessories attached (such as a microSD card), remove them.
- Open Ports and Covers:
- Open any ports, covers, or compartments that you can to allow air to circulate.
- Place in Rice or Silica Gel:
- Submerge the Steam Deck in a container filled with uncooked rice or silica gel packets. Both are absorbent materials that can help draw out moisture. Leave it in there for at least 24 to 48 hours.
- Avoid Heat Sources:
- Do not use external heat sources like hair dryers or heaters, as excessive heat can damage internal components.
- Monitor for Signs of Recovery:
- After the drying period, check for any signs of functionality. If the Steam Deck appears to be working, test its features and performance.
- Seek Professional Assistance:
- If the device doesn’t turn on or exhibits persistent issues, consider seeking assistance from the manufacturer’s customer support or a professional repair service.
- Insurance Coverage:
- If your Steam Deck is covered by warranty or device protection plans that include accidental damage coverage, contact the manufacturer or your insurance provider for guidance.
