Jeremy Laukkonen / Lifewire
Press theSTEAMbutton to open up the main menu.
Scroll down, and selectFormat.
The Steam Deck will firsttestyour SD card.
Jeremy Laukkonen / Lifewire
you’re able to also try restarting your Steam Deck.
If you experience repeated failures, try a different SD card.
The Steam Deck will thenformatyour SD card.
If your card is slow, this process will take a while.
SelectMicroSD Card, and pressX.
The SD card is now your default download location for new games.
Can You Use an External USB Drive With a Steam Deck?
For the drive to work with SteamOS gaming mode, youll need to format the drive asNTFS.
The drive will then work with your Steam Deck until you disconnect it.
Can You Upgrade the Steam Deck SSD?
This process will void your warranty, but it isnt any more difficult thanupgrading the SSD in most laptops.
It needs to be a 2230M.2 SSD.
Other drives either arent compatible or wont fit.
Pry the case apart using a plastic tool, starting at the top.
When the top separates, pry apart each side.
Remove the three screws from the metal battery shield.
Remove the SSD screw.
Transfer the metal shield from the old SSD to the new one.
Slide the SSD in place, press it down gently, and secure it in place with the screw.
Reassemble the Steam Deck by reversing the steps taken to disassemble it.
Download SteamOS recovery image, and follow Steams instructions to use that file to create a bootable USB.
Connect the bootable USB to your Steam Deck.
HoldVolume Down, and turn the Steam Deck on.
Let go of the volume button when you hear a chime.
When the recovery environment appears, selectRe-image Steam Deck.
When it finishes, youll have to set up your Steam Deck as if it were brand new.
Connect your Steam Deck to your PCwith the Warpinator app.
Use an HDMI to USB-C adaptor toconnect your Steam Deck to your TV or monitor.
Jeremy Laukkonen / Lifewire
