Valve is reportedly considering selling certified refurbished Steam Decks, according to leaked data that briefly appeared on the Steam Database. The leaked listings included refurbished models of the Steam Deck with three different storage capacities: 64GB, 256GB, and 512GB.
The leaked prices for the refurbished models were as follows:
- Steam Deck 64 GB – Certified Refurbished: $319
- Steam Deck 256 GB – Certified Refurbished: $419
- Steam Deck 512 GB – Certified Refurbished: $519
These listings were active as of August 7, 2023, but were taken down by August 8. While the prices were not finalized, they matched the prices during the Steam Deck’s initial sale. This suggests that Valve is considering offering refurbished Steam Decks to customers.
The Steam Deck has been a successful product for Valve, and offering certified refurbished units could provide an affordable option for budget-conscious gamers. Valve’s partnership with iFixit has made it easier to source replacement parts and potentially reduce repair costs, making refurbishing a viable option. Additionally, refurbished products typically come with warranties from third-party sellers, so Valve could offer its own warranty for refurbished Steam Decks.
By entering the refurbished market, Valve could tap into a new revenue stream and ensure that its products remain accessible to a wider audience, even at a lower price point.