Should I get a steam deck or gaming pc?

Hi all

So I’ve had a gaming laptop for a few years now and unfortunately it has broken and so I’m looking for a new device.

I have bought a run of the mill laptop already work and just general computer uses so I covered on that end. So the only thing I am missing is gaming.

I’m torn between saving and getting a really good gaming pc or a steam deck. I’m wondering what are folks experiences with the steam deck and can it replace and be used as your main gaming device.

The things that draw me to a steam deck is the portability. I am used to gaming where I like in my house and putting my feet up with my laptop. And I also like the idea of docking it to a tv and playing from the coach like a console. And then there is also the time and money factor. The steam deck is much cheaper and if I was getting a gaming pc I would want to put a few months into research and getting it and with the steam deck I could order on right away.

What concerns me is the lack of mouse and keyboard. I usually switch between using a controller and mouse and keyboard depending on the game. How have people found playing games like BG3, Civ, factorio, crusader kings etc on the steam deck? I would usually use a controller for most third/first person rpgs and other games like that.

I also have concerns about some games not being compatible and just not running well.

Any thoughts or advice would be greatly appreciated