Steam Deck and PC gaming for beginners
PC gaming suits you if you already use a computer comfortably and want the widest choice of games. It asks more of you than a console does. The Steam Deck is a handheld PC, which means a computer you hold in your hands, made by Valve.
Who it suits
It suits you if:
- You are comfortable with a computer, downloads and settings.
- You want a very large choice of games, including older ones.
- You like to wait for sales.
It may not suit you if:
- You want to plug in and play with little set-up. See Switch 2 or PS5.
- You want a simple choice of games with clear labels.
- You want guaranteed family party games.
What it costs in the first year
US prices, October 2026.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Steam Deck OLED | $789 |
| Steam account | Free |
| Subscription | None needed |
| First-year total, Steam Deck | $789 plus the games you buy |
Game prices vary. A gaming PC costs more or less depending on the model, so we do not give one price. If you already have a computer that can run the game, your start-up cost may be $0. Check the game’s page for the computer it needs.
What to know before buying
- Steam. Steam is an online shop and app where you buy and open PC games. The Steam Deck uses it.
- Compatibility. Not every PC game works on the Steam Deck. Steam shows a label on each game page.
- Handheld. The Steam Deck has a screen, sticks and buttons built in. You can also connect it to a TV with extra equipment.
- A computer approach. Updates, settings and installing take more thought than on a console.
- Controls. On a PC you can use a keyboard and mouse, or plug in a controller. See How to use a controller.
- Specifications. PC games list the computer they need. Check this before buying.
Easiest first games
Level 1 or 2 on our ratings for PC:
- Monument Valley has optical-illusion puzzles.
- Townscaper is a building toy.
- Dorfromantik is a calm tile puzzle.
- Unpacking tells a story without words.
- Lego Builder’s Journey has calm building puzzles.
- Stardew Valley is a farming game.
- Mini Metro is a route-drawing puzzle.
- The Case of the Golden Idol is a detective puzzle.
Use the Game finder to filter more.
Is it easy to set up?
A Steam Deck takes about 30 minutes: charge it, connect to Wi-Fi and sign in to a Steam account. A PC depends on what you already own. A new gaming PC takes longer.
Do I need a subscription?
No. You buy each game. Some stores offer optional subscriptions, but they are not required.
Is it a good choice for a first-time player?
It can be, if you are confident with computers. If you are not, a console is usually simpler.
Can I play with grandchildren?
Some PC games offer local or online play. There are fewer same-sofa games than on a Switch 2. See Games to play with grandchildren.
Next steps
- Compare your options: Console vs phone vs PC
- Take the console chooser.