Valve’s Steam Deck OLED: A Burn-In Nightmare
Valve’s Steam Deck has been a hit for almost two years, but the recent release of the premium Steam Deck OLED has brought some unexpected issues to light. While the OLED display promises vibrant colors and high contrast, it also comes with a dark side - burn-in.
The Bright and the Burnt
OLED technology, known for its stunning visuals, has a notorious Achilles heel - burn-in. This phenomenon occurs when static images linger on the screen for too long, leaving ghostly imprints that can mar the display.
Endurance Test Extravaganza
Enter YouTubers The Phawx and Wulff Den, who decided to push the Steam Deck OLED to its limits. The Phawx’s 750-hour test revealed a haunting white text burn-in, while Wulff Den’s 1,500-hour screenshot experiment left its mark as well. These extreme tests may not reflect real-world usage, but they certainly highlight a potential flaw.
Valve’s Misstep
Valve’s decision to forego burn-in protection in the Steam Deck OLED has raised eyebrows. With only a one-year warranty, concerns about long-term durability linger. While the display’s initial allure is undeniable, the specter of burn-in looms large.
Conclusion
As consumers weigh the pros and cons of the Steam Deck OLED, the burn-in issue serves as a cautionary tale. While the display dazzles with its brilliance, the shadow of burn-in reminds us that even the brightest screens have their dark side.
