"Steam Deck Speed Test: Everything You Need to Know"

Updated by

Linda 

Written by

Tracy King 

Updated on April 19, 2024

Key Takeaways from the Steam Deck Speed Test:

• If you own a Steam Deck for gaming, this tutorial is a must-read for you, and you should understand why it's crucial to test its performance.
• By conducting a speed test, you can determine whether your Steam Deck device is fast or slow and take appropriate actions to address any performance issues.
• This practice ultimately enhances your gaming experience, allowing you to enjoy a smooth and uninterrupted gaming session.

Test Steam Deck Speed

Follow our expert guide on conducting a Steam Deck speed test efficiently on your own. With our detailed steps, you can pinpoint and resolve any speed-related issues impacting your gaming experience. Unlock the full potential of your Steam Deck – begin testing its speed today!

"Please provide the list of languages that need translation."

Stay here and follow the tips and best practices in the following sections to learn how to efficiently run the Steam Deck Speed test.

Guide 1. Run Steam Deck Speed Test This guide will walk you through running a speed test on your Steam Deck to check the performance of your Solid State Drive (SSD). 1. **Access the Terminal**: First, you'll need to open the terminal on your Steam Deck. You can do this by pressing the Steam button, selecting the 'Games' tab, then choosing 'Run a Command.' Type `terminator` in the command field and press Enter. 2. **Install the Benchmark Tool**: Now, we'll install a benchmark tool called `fio`. Type the following command and hit Enter: ``` sudo apt update && sudo apt install fio ``` 3. **Create a Test File**: We'll create a file for the benchmark to use. Enter the following command and press Enter: ``` sudo fio --size=1G --name=testfile --filename=/tmp/testfile --rw=randwrite ``` 4. **Run the SSD Speed Test**: After creating the test file, run the benchmark using the following command: ``` sudo fio --name=ssd_test --filename=/tmp/testfile --bs=4k --iodepth=64 --size=1G --rw=randread --output-format=json --time_based --runtime=60 > /home/debian/ssd_speed.json ``` 5. **View Results**: The test will run for 60 seconds, and the results will be saved in a JSON file at `/home/debian/ssd_speed.json`. To view the results in the terminal, type: ``` cat /home/debian/ssd_speed.json ``` 6. **Interpreting the Results**: Look for the "read" section in the output, which will display the read speed in IOPS (Input/Output Operations Per Second) and throughput in MB/s. Higher numbers indicate better performance. Remember to interpret the results in the context of your Steam Deck's hardware capabilities. If you encounter any issues or need further assistance, consult the Steam Deck community or official support resources.

Here are the translations for the provided languages: 1. **⏱Duration:** 3-5 minutes 2. **?Complexity:** Easy 3. **?Tools:** PC, Steam Deck SSD, tools Partition Master

Are you a Steam Deck enthusiast eager to know the speed of your SSD? Look no further! You can easily assess the performance of your Steam Deck's SSD with the help of Partition Master and its built-in DiskMark feature. This intuitive software enables you to swiftly conduct an SSD speed test in just a few straightforward steps.

You can connect your SSD from the Steam Deck to your PC via an M.2 slot and easily follow a guide to test if the Steam Deck SSD is fast or slow. So why wait? Let's start the Steam Deck SSD speed test today!

Follow the instructional steps: 1. Identify the languages you need to translate. 2. Open a translation tool, such as Google Translate or Microsoft Translator. 3. Select the source language, which is the language of the text you want to translate. 4. Input the text you wish to translate into the tool. 5. Choose the target language, which is the language you want the text translated into. 6. Review the translated text for accuracy and context, as machine translations may not always be perfect. 7. Make any necessary adjustments to the translated text for clarity or cultural appropriateness. 8. Save or copy the translated text for your intended use. 9. Repeat the process for additional languages if needed. Remember that professional human translation might be required for more complex or sensitive content.

Step 1. Launch AOMEI Partition Assistant. Click the download button to activate the "DiskMark" feature under the "Tools" section.

Step 2. Click on the drop-down boxes to select the target drive, test data, and block size.

Step 3. After configuring everything, click "Start" to begin the disk test. You'll then see the Sequential or Random read/write speed, I/O, and Delay data.

How to Install Windows on Steam Deck in 2024? Comprehensive Guide

This article will guide you through the process of installing the Windows operating system on Steam Deck in detail, including a step-by-step tutorial and some troubleshooting options.

Guide 2: Perform Steam Deck Ethernet or WiFi Speed Test

Translation:
• Duration: 3-5 minutes
• Complexity: Medium
• Tools: PC, Chrome browser, WiFi or Ethernet

Here's a simple and straightforward method to perform an Ethernet or WiFi speed test on your Steam Deck. It's recommended to run the test multiple times a day to obtain more accurate results. Before proceeding, ensure that your Steam Deck is connected to the internet either through an Ethernet cable or WiFi.

Here are the steps to follow:

Step 1. After connecting your Steam Deck to the internet using an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi, go to the desktop.

Step 3. Open your preferred web browser on your Steam Deck, such as Google Chrome, etc.

Step 4. Visit any reputable speed testing website, such as the Google Fiber Internet Speed Test, or search for "internet speed test" on Google.

Step 5. Click the "Go" or "Start Test" button on the speed test website.

Translation: "Testing Steam Deck Ethernet and Wi-Fi Speed"

Step 6. Wait a few moments for the speed test to complete. You'll see the results of your download, upload, and ping speed.

Here's the translation of the text into English:

And that's it! With these steps, you can quickly test your Ethernet or WiFi speed on your Steam Deck.

Guide 3: Test Steam Deck Game Downloading Speed

Here are the translations of the provided text into English:
• ⏱Duration: 5-15 minutes or longer
• ?Complexity: Medium
• ?Tools: Steam Deck, settings, and WiFi

To check the download speed for games or other content you're downloading from the Steam Store on your Steam Deck portable console, follow these steps:

Step 1. Turn on the Steam Deck and connect to the internet using an Ethernet cable or WiFi.

Step 2. Make sure that you have started a download.

Step 3. Once a file is downloading, open the Steam menu. You can do this by pressing the Steam button or tapping the Steam Menu icon in the bottom-right corner of the screen (if visible).

Step 4. From the available options, select Downloads.

Step 5. You'll be directed to the Downloads section, where you can see the progress of your current downloads. The download speed will be displayed in the top right corner of the screen.

What Slows Down the Steam Deck Speed?

Several factors can influence the speed and performance of the Steam Deck. For instance:

Here are the translations in English:
• Limited storage capacity: The Steam Deck comes equipped with a solid-state drive (SSD), which is faster than a traditional hard drive; however, if the SSD has low storage space and is nearly full, you might experience slow performance.
• Slow Wi-Fi or network speed: The Steam Deck heavily depends on internet connectivity for online gaming and downloading updates. A slow Wi-Fi connection or network speed can lead to slow game loading times or lag and stuttering.
• ⚙ Background processes: You might have too many applications running in the background on the Steam Deck. Closing any unnecessary programs or apps will help ensure optimal performance.
• Heat: Similar to other electronic devices, the Steam Deck can generate heat, potentially affecting its performance. To prevent this, keep your device in a well-ventilated area and avoid placing it on soft surfaces like a bed or couch.
• Outdated drivers: Out-of-date drivers can also contribute to performance and stability issues.

To efficiently conduct a Steam Deck speed test, it's advisable to close any unnecessary programs, ensure the device has adequate ventilation, and utilize a stable internet connection. Running a benchmark test can also assist in identifying any performance issues that need attention.

Bonus Tips to Enhance Steam Deck Performance

If your Steam Deck is running slowly, don't worry. Here are some practical tips to boost its performance and speed up your Steam Deck:

Here are the translations in English:
• Upgrade Steam Deck SSD to boost your Steam Deck's speed, as the faster read and write speeds of an SSD can shorten game loading times.
• In addition to upgrading your SSD, you can enhance its speed by carrying out routine maintenance tasks like defragmenting or trimming the drive.
• Upgrade your WiFi or Ethernet connection for optimal internet performance on your Steam Deck.
• Free up space on your internal storage by saving or transferring old games to an external drive, which will improve your device's overall performance.
• Close unneeded programs and applications to allow your Steam Deck to run faster.
• Ensure your Steam Deck stays up-to-date with the latest software updates and drivers.

Conclusion

As a gamer, you know the disappointment and frustration that comes with a slow Steam Deck or constant game loading issues. It's essential to test the Steam Deck's performance, especially when you encounter sluggish gaming speeds or your device gets stuck.

But don't worry, as we've provided some helpful tips to combat performance issues, such as upgrading your SSD to a larger capacity, improving your internet connection, and freeing up internal storage to boost your Steam Deck's speed. If you want to test your device's SSD speed, Partition Master is a tool you might consider.

With features like 4K alignment that can boost SSD speed and performance, you can elevate your gaming experience to new heights.

So why settle for slow, laggy gameplay? Give these tips and tools a try today and prepare to enjoy a faster, smoother gaming experience on your Steam Deck!

FAQs About Steam Deck Speed Test 1. **What is the Steam Deck?** - The Steam Deck is a portable gaming console developed by Valve Corporation, allowing users to play PC games on a handheld device. 2. **Why is there a speed test for the Steam Deck?** - The speed test measures the performance capabilities of the Steam Deck to give users an idea of how well it can run various games and applications. 3. **How is the Steam Deck's performance tested?** - Performance is typically measured through benchmarking software, running popular games, and comparing its frame rates and loading times with desktop PCs or other gaming consoles. 4. **What factors affect the Steam Deck's speed?** - Factors include hardware specifications (CPU, GPU, RAM), game optimization for the platform, battery status, and cooling efficiency. 5. **Can all PC games be played on the Steam Deck?** - Most Steam games are compatible, but some may require additional setup or may not perform optimally due to lack of native support or controller compatibility. 6. **How does the Steam Deck handle graphics-intensive games?** - While the Steam Deck has a capable mobile GPU, high-end graphics games might run at lower resolutions or frame rates compared to a dedicated gaming PC. 7. **Is the Steam Deck's speed test indicative of real-world usage?** - Yes, speed tests provide a good approximation of real-world performance, but actual gameplay experience may vary depending on individual titles and user settings. 8. **Can the Steam Deck be upgraded for better performance?** - Limited upgrades are possible, such as swapping out the storage for faster SSDs, but major hardware improvements are not user-serviceable. 9. **Does the Steam Deck have a fan for cooling?** - Yes, it features a built-in fan to help manage heat generated during extended gaming sessions. 10. **Are there any alternatives to the Steam Deck for portable gaming?** - Other options include Nintendo Switch, GPD Win series, and Aya Neo, which cater to different preferences and budgets.

If you're encountering issues with Steam Deck performance or have further queries, the following FAQs might be beneficial to you.

1. How fast can the Steam Deck be?

The download speed of the Steam Deck is influenced by various factors, including internet speed, network traffic congestion, and the size of the game being downloaded. However, the Steam Deck is a more potent device compared to its rivals. It features Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, and its custom SSD storage is quicker than conventional hard drives, which can contribute to faster download speeds.

2. How do I test the SSD speed of the Steam Deck?

To test the SSD speed on your Steam Deck, you can utilize software like Partition Master. This tool enables you to measure the read and write speeds of your SSD, giving you an understanding of its overall performance.

3. Why does the Steam Deck download speed decrease?

The Steam Deck's download speed might decrease due to network congestion, an unstable internet connection, or large game files. To enhance the speed, consider pausing other downloads and streaming services, utilizing a wired internet connection, restarting the device and modem/router, optimizing the SSD, and freeing up internal storage space.