Western Digital is creating new SSDs specifically in the form factor used in handhelds like the Steam Deck and ROG Ally. These come in 500gb, 1tb, and 2tb options.
I decided to bite the bullet and preordered two 2 TB SSDs, which release officially next Friday on Sep 22nd. I haven't used a Steam Deck, but the two Steam Decks I ordered just arrived today for my spouse and I (yay!). They're a gift for us next month, so I'll install them next month and have impressions by then.
While doing research, I only found that there was an SN740 model from WD that was only sold in some regions that Steam Deck users were using. People were happy with it so I figure the higher spec model is probably fine to use.
Reddit link here (served through Libreddit privacy front-end): https://libreddit.kavin.rocks/r/SteamDeck/comments/y9yg9i/2230_sn740_nvme_ssd_for_steam_deck/
So far though, I only know the SN770 is TLC NAND and basically similar to the published Corsair MP600 specs. I'd love to get my hands on MLC or SLC, but I don't think it exists for that capacity (nor would it be affordable). My guess is by the time an affordable MLC or SLC arrives in 2230 config, Steam Deck 2 will be out and probably use a more common SSD form factor.
True. I didn't think about it, but I guess that should have been obvious since 2230 isn't a common standard - manufacturers won't spend for that.
Meanwhile, i've had lots of WD drives without any issues. And some of my SSDs are TLC and QLC (before I knew about QLC longevity). I can't imagine I'll go wrong with these upcoming SN770 drives.
Yeah, it’s significantly more expensive so only the commercial market values the reliability gains enough. Even then MLC, TLC get more reliable over time too.