iFixit’s team got hold of the new Steam Deck OLED and Lenovo’s Legion Go handheld and compared the repairability of both devices. For a first-generation device, the Lenovo handheld with detachable gamepads holds up quite well. Meanwhile, Valve noticeably improved the Steam Deck internally compared to its predecessor.
Both devices can be opened using heat and some prying tools to replace the screen module. However, the new OLED screen of the Steam Deck isn’t compatible with the first-generation LC screen. Nevertheless, both panels share the same frame size, allowing some accessories to still be used with the OLED Deck.
Additionally, both devices can be unscrewed from the back. The Steam Deck OLED uses Torx T6 screws, while the Legion Go is held together by more commonly used Phillips head screws.
Hall-Effect sticks in Lenovo
According to iFixit, the OLED version of the Steam Deck still uses a lot of adhesive. However, Valve has significantly reduced this, making parts easier and quicker to remove. The Legion Go also uses adhesive, but with easier-to-remove adhesive strips.
However, the components inside are assembled in a far more complex manner. Many cables extend from one side of the casing to the other, often crossing paths. Therefore, it’s advisable to take photos of each step before teardown.
Valve managed to simplify the layout of the Steam Deck OLED even further. Among other changes, a ribbon cable has been moved upwards. Previously, it was positioned below the mainboard and could get pinched.
Both devices lose points from iFixit for their soldered USB-C ports. However, the Legion Go’s Hall-Effect sticks are an advantage as they prevent joystick drift due to wear and tear. The Steam Deck OLED uses traditional joysticks that are easily replaceable.
Overall, it’s a close race: iFixit rates the Steam Deck OLED with a repairability score of 9 out of 10 points, while the Legion Go gets 8 out of 10 points. The major advantage of the Deck is that Valve officially offers replacement parts.
That’s not the case yet for the Legion Go. However, Lenovo is known for selling various parts for repairs. Possibly, the Legion Go will be covered in the future too.
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