This exactly, I can confirm the Steam Deck is perfect for 5-30 minute gaming jaunts. It's similar to the Nintendo Switch, but the Deck actually has a huge number of varied, high quality games- frequently at bargain prices.
Idling on the couch with my wife while the baby naps for an hour is the sweet spot, where pre-Deck I was struggling to find decent mobile game (having exhausted all the decent games on Nintendo Switch).
I'll add that finding the right game is important! One that doesn't require a lot of cognition. Personally, FTL is my go-to. I can pick it up, do a few encounters, and drop it again without losing any progress.
Agreed, Trials Evolution[0] is my go-to. Ubisoft's launcher is a hassle and it gets a little weird after a suspend (it thinks it's lost the internet connection, so it saves your medals earned but your track times are saved in an off-line profile), but it's terrific for time-constrained play. And it's currently 75% off...
Idling on the couch with my wife while the baby naps for an hour is the sweet spot, where pre-Deck I was struggling to find decent mobile game (having exhausted all the decent games on Nintendo Switch).
I'll add that finding the right game is important! One that doesn't require a lot of cognition. Personally, FTL is my go-to. I can pick it up, do a few encounters, and drop it again without losing any progress.