Review

ماكينة ستيم: حل الألعاب المثالي لدي

  • Updated December 20, 2025
  • Dominique Jacquet
  • 162 comments

تُثير النقاشات عبر الإنترنت أحيانًا سؤال من يُصمم ماكينة ستيم لها، ولكن بالنسبة لي، تبدو مثالية. بدأت رحلتي في الألعاب مع PS4، والتي استمتعت بها تمامًا، بما في ذلك نموذج الاشتراك الخاص بها. ومع ظهور PS5 وأداءه بـ 60 إطارًا في الثانية في دقة 4K، تغيرت توقعاتي - بمجرد أن تجربت ذلك، أصبح العودة إلى 30 إطارًا في الثانية أمرًا مستحيلًا. في البداية، كان إعادة لعب الألعاب القديمة بتحسين الأداء ممتعًا، ولكن مع مرور الوقت، وجدت نفسي أقل اهتمامًا بالعناوين الجديدة. كنت أريد استكشاف الألعاب القديمة التي فاتتني، لكن دفع السعر الكامل للعناوين المحدودة بـ 30 إطارًا في الثانية على شاشة 4K بدا غير مرضٍ، خاصة عندما لم تكن بعضها قابلة للعب على وحدات التحكم PlayStation. مع ارتفاع تكاليف الاشتراك وتراجع القيمة، بدأت أبحث عن ستيم، جذبتني مكتبة ألعابه الواسعة، وأسعاره المنخفضة، والوصول المجاني عبر الإنترنت.

في حياتي اليومية، أنا غارق تمامًا في نظام Apple، أعتمد على MacBook لأعمالي وأقدر استقراره مقارنةً بالمشاكل المتكررة التي واجهتها مع ويندوز. على الرغم من قيود آبل، فهي توازن مقبول، وهي تناسب احتياجاتي. كانت فكرة بناء جهاز كمبيوتر تمر بي، لكنني لم أرغب في إدخال نظام تشغيل آخر إلى روتيني، وخاصة ويندوز. بالإضافة إلى ذلك، أفضل استخدام عصا التحكم واللعب بعيدًا عن مكتب عملي. طوال فترة طويلة، ارتبطت ستيم فقط بـ ويندوز، ولكن ظهور ستيم ديك ونظام آبل الخاص بفالف تغير وجهة نظري. على الرغم من تفكيري في ستيم ديك، لم أقم بالشراء أبدًا. الآن، ماكينة ستيم تتناسب تمامًا مع إعدادي واحتياجاتي ورغباتي الحالية في الألعاب.

مع استمرار دورة PlayStation الحالية، لا أشعر بأي توق لـ PS6. تفقد العناوين الحصرية أهميتها هذه الأيام، لأن العديد منها تصل في النهاية إلى الحواسيب الشخصية، ولا يوجد ضمان أن وحدة تحكم جديدة ستلبي احتياجاتي. ماكينة ستيم تبدو منطقية بالنسبة لي - أتساءل إن كنت جزءًا من مجموعة صغيرة أم أن هناك الكثيرين في نفس الوضع.

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162 Comments

  1. I’m also curious, but one thing puzzles me. They designed it based on the average specs of Steam users. So what would be the motivation for buying one if most people already have something similar?

  2. As someone with a 14-year-old gaming PC, I’ve upgraded components over time, but the CPU and motherboard are still original. It will be a while before I can afford a powerful new PC that meets all my needs. Depending on the price, a Steam Machine could bridge the gap for a few more years until I’ve saved enough to invest in a high-end system.

  3. The Steam Machine makes perfect sense for me. Steam genuinely cares about its customers and eliminates the frustrations of dealing with Windows or Sony. It’s a logical choice and will cost at least half as much as a dedicated PC.

  4. As someone who also works exclusively in macOS, I’ve kept a Windows machine just for gaming for years. I’m tired of maintaining a separate PC, and the Steam Machine seems like the perfect solution.

  5. The Steam Machine makes perfect sense for me since the Steam Deck is my only PC. It will seamlessly provide better performance whether I’m playing handheld or on the TV. It’s the console and ecosystem I’ve been looking for—no subscriptions, cheaper games, and hardware from a company that seems focused on delivering exactly what I want.

  6. My Steam Deck is almost always connected to the TV, and I use a mouse and keyboard for certain games. A more powerful version of this setup would be very appealing, even though the Deck is sufficient for now. I don’t plan on getting another PlayStation.

    1. The Steam Machine makes perfect sense for me as well. I was curious to see if others felt the same way, though it seems the main point of discussion now is the price.

      1. As someone who works in pricing, I’m curious to see how they position the cost—whether they’ll use cost-plus, value-based pricing, or factor in R&D expenses.

  8. I own a DanCase A4, FormD T1, and have a ThorZone Tetra S on preorder. I’m also considering the Skyreach 5 Mini.

    These cases range from $200 to $500. For me, small form factor is essential, so the Steam Machine’s price already reflects that premium. You may not value that, but that’s irrelevant.

    1. The Steam Machine makes sense for you, but for me, the size doesn’t matter since it stays in my living room, so the form factor adds no value.

      Unfortunately, many mid to entry-level users aren’t looking to pay extra for form factor. We wanted a mid-grade upgrade, which we now know can be built cheaper with the same performance.

  10. The Steam Machine is essentially a mini-PC running Steam OS. It’s a great option if you don’t already own a gaming PC or aren’t interested in building one yourself.

  11. I’m also the target demographic. I dislike Windows and use a Mac mini M4 for productivity, while my Steam Deck handles gaming. I’ve lost interest in consoles and was about to build a custom Bazzite PC when the Steam Machine was announced. The slight performance trade-off seems worth it for the likely significant savings and ease of use. I’ll probably preorder two for the price of my planned build.

  12. I plan to use the Steam Machine as a console for my TV, and I’ll buy it regardless of price. I want it to be affordable not just for me, but for everyone.

    Widespread adoption would benefit the whole market by pushing Xbox and PlayStation to improve. I’ve often said that $500–600 would be the ideal price point, but it looks like it will be $700–800, which makes it a much harder sell. At that price, the Steam Machine probably won’t have much impact on the market. It’s a missed opportunity.

    1. With Steam, you have access to an enormous back catalog. For the most part, you don’t need to worry about backwards compatibility—if it’s on Steam, it should work.

    2. Unfortunately, the Steam Machine will likely be more expensive than the PS5. Based on statements from Valve employees over the past week and a half, a $500 price point seems unlikely.

    3. I’ve only bought two games for my PS5 since I got it, and both cost over 100 CAD. Most of my Steam purchases are under 50 CAD, and I don’t have to pay for online play. Even if a Steam Machine is more expensive than a PS5 Pro, it still offers much better value.

      1. I also have a PS5 Pro, but you’d have to be heavily invested in the ecosystem to consider a locked, non-upgradeable system with about 70% of the PS5 Pro’s performance as better value.

        1. As a longtime Steam user with two PS5 games and 600 Steam games, my situation is fairly typical. I buy more games on PC because they run better on my main computer, can be played on the Steam Deck when I’m away, don’t require a subscription for online play, and Steam sales often let me buy them for half the price or less compared to the PS5. It’s simply better value.

    4. The Steam Machine makes sense for me too, but I heard it’s expected to cost around $700 this week. That price dampens my enthusiasm, since I could build a more powerful system for less.

      1. Based on current speculation, I expect the price to be around $800, give or take $200.

        While you could build a more powerful PC for less, most builds I’ve seen cost around $1000, and that’s before factoring in compromises to reduce the price. A custom build also likely won’t look as clean in a living room and may be louder.

        1. Don’t overlook Valve’s thermal design. That’s their biggest advantage. Building a comparable PC with similar specs would cost more because you’d get upgradability options, which the Steam Machine lacks. However, the Steam Machine offers a compact unit with only 200W of power to manage, capable of native 1080p high settings at 60fps. With FSR, you can achieve the same performance at higher resolutions. For me, that’s a major benefit as a secondary living room PC that integrates with my existing Steam library.

          1. Based on the few parts lists I’ve seen attempting to match similar hardware, this seems accurate. If you have a better configuration, I’d be interested to see it.

          1. The Steam Deck was also positioned as a niche product by Valve, yet it launched at a reasonable price.

          2. The Steam Deck was confirmed to be sold at a loss, and Valve has stated they don’t intend to do the same with the Steam Machine. These are direct statements from Valve engineers, not rumors. Expect the price to be comparable to a PC with similar specs, likely in the $700–800 range.

          4. The Steam Deck was never marketed that way. As another user pointed out, they were selling those at a loss.

        1. It depends on what you mean by “meaningfully.” This build has a GPU that’s about 10–15% better than the Steam Machine’s, while the CPU is slightly weaker in single-core performance but stronger in multi-core. Overall, they’re close enough that the GPU bottleneck will make the difference negligible.

          1. After you’ve updated the link, I see it’s not SFF, which would increase the price, and it’s not plug-and-play with no CEC.

            To me, the Steam Machine is worth about $100 more than your build for the convenience and form factor alone. Not everyone will value those aspects, and that’s okay.

          2. The Steam Machine does require sacrificing some performance and upgradability for its compact size. If you prioritize a small form factor over the ability to upgrade, it’s a solid value. However, if you want both, be prepared to pay the premium prices typical of small form factor PCs. Personally, I wouldn’t, but I understand why some people do.

          3. That’s a fair point.

            I can see this device being successful even at $800, but it won’t be the go-to for budget-conscious newcomers to PC gaming. Instead, it’s for those who want a console-like experience without any setup, bringing the Steam Deck’s convenience to the TV.

            It’s also appealing for console players, since Steam games are often cheaper and there are no online subscription fees.

          4. The link appears to be empty. I’m genuinely curious about this, but for it to qualify, the build must also be small form factor, using a mini-ITX motherboard and an SFF case.

  14. I have a question about compatibility. On the Steam Deck, some games are either unsupported or only partially supported, which affects the gameplay experience. Will the Steam Machine have similar issues?

    There are several games I haven’t been able to play since I’m limited to the Steam Deck right now. It would be great to connect the Steam Machine to the TV when possible and finally enjoy those games again.

  15. I completely understand. I work on a Mac and can’t stand Windows anymore. I skipped the PS5 because I find it unattractive and there are too few exclusives. I don’t need maxed-out graphics—I just want something quiet and visually calm for the living room, without subscriptions and with a reasonably priced game catalog.

    I don’t think that’s particularly niche. Many adults want a decent living room console-like experience for their Steam library.

  17. Like the Steam Deck, the Steam Machine will require some adjustments to get certain games—mostly older ones—running and to configure controls. Once you get used to it, though, it becomes much easier.

    I use both a gaming PC and a PS5, but lately my PS5 hasn’t gotten much use. There are fewer games available, and prices are high. Steam, on the other hand, offers a huge library with many affordable games. Bundles like Humble Bundle also provide interesting games from time to time.

  18. If they price it right, the Steam Machine could be a viable option for most console gamers. I plan to get one if the price is fair, but if not, I’ll build a PC after my PS5. I’ve owned PlayStations since the PSX, and with current trends, I don’t see much reason to buy future consoles.

  19. My gaming habits have shifted over the years—I play much less multiplayer and more solo, controller-friendly games. In fact, I use my Steam Deck connected to my TV like a console.

  20. The Steam Machine seems to be for several different groups, not just one or two specific niches.

    While some are calling it dead on arrival, I think that’s an overreaction. Valve doesn’t need to sell tens of millions of these. Even selling under a million units could be considered a success for them.

    1. Most complaints seem to come from users who have already invested heavily in high-end PCs, but the Steam Machine isn’t designed for them. Valve engineers have stated that it outperforms the hardware of about 70% of Steam users. With 26 million users online currently, that means it would be an upgrade for roughly 18.2 million people. While not all of them will purchase one, calling it dead on arrival is unreasonable.

  21. I’ve had similar thoughts. Since early 2025, I’ve wanted to get a PC, but consoles don’t allow remote play, and PCs always seemed too large for me. I also wasn’t keen on using Windows 11.

    Now, with the new Steam Machine, I plan to buy one. I hope it stays under 900€.

  22. As a PC gamer for about 15 years, I’m perfectly content playing at 1080p 30fps for most games. I’ve always wanted the ideal living room console or HTPC setup and have tried nearly every major and niche controller mapping software available. I’ve searched for the best low-profile PC case and explored suitable APUs. I also loved the original Steam Controller.

    I mainly play older games, remakes, and remasters, and even with newer titles, I don’t require high-end graphics. Gameplay and story matter far more to me than ray tracing. I feel graphics became “good enough” around the Xbox 360 era—anything beyond that is a bonus, not a necessity. I prefer single-player games and local couch co-op, and the few online multiplayer games I enjoy are cooperative, so anti-cheat isn’t a concern for me.

    With expenses being tight, I rarely buy new games unless they’re exactly what I’m looking for, like strong ongoing franchises, new PC ports, or remasters of games I’ve always wanted. I have a large backlog and can wait for steep sales, so I won’t need to upgrade for a long time despite any hardware limitations.

    I love my Steam Deck, switched my laptop to Linux two years ago, and now need to replace my aging desktop. While Valve is pricing the Steam Machine like a PC, their large-scale production, direct hardware contracts, and potential use of discounted APUs (similar to the Steam Deck) could make it more affordable than a custom build. The APU may not be upgradable, but RAM and storage likely will be.

    For me, the Steam Machine offers “good enough” performance, works perfectly as an HTPC, and should meet my needs for years to come. So while our reasons may differ, it feels like this device was made for me.

        1. The Steam Machine concept makes sense for you, but it’s worth noting that creating a universal standard often leads to fragmentation. This XKCD comic illustrates the issue well.

  24. I have a 2019 Nitro 5 with a GTX 1650, and the Steam Machine makes sense for me because I want something compact and affordable. It will let me play newer discounted games and older titles from my Steam library with better graphics. I’m really looking forward to it.

  25. I’m getting it on day one as well. This is exactly what I’ve been wanting for a long time—I can finally say goodbye to Meta, Windows, and Sony and move entirely to Steam.

    No more PlayStation Plus subscription, no need for a Meta account, no more dealing with wireless mouse and keyboard or the inconvenient boot process for my small form factor PC, and no more cables to manage.

    That said, I hope they release a “pro” model or enable the same seamless experience on your own prebuilt PC, with features like HDMI-CEC, wireless controller support, and power-on via controller, without needing third-party workarounds.

  26. The Steam Machine is designed for enthusiasts. While most people can set up Steam streaming from a PC to a TV, this is for those who want a true console experience with Steam. I just want to grab a controller, hand one to my wife, press a button, and play Steam games effortlessly. This seems to be the solution.

  28. I’m in the same situation and would buy it on day one.

    I won a Steam Deck OLED in a contest and love it so much that I’ve docked it to use as a console when I’m not traveling.

    The Steam Machine now provides exactly what I was looking for.

  30. I’m in a similar niche. I don’t enjoy new games as much and I’m not interested in recent releases. I have a gaming PC that cost £2000 ten years ago and about 200 games, but even though it’s set up in the living room, it’s not ideal because it’s a full tower and very noisy. I’d like to play my large library of games without the tower in my living room, and I don’t want to sit at my desk since I do that for nine hours a day—doing so in my free time would be depressing.

    The Steam Machine, despite claims that it’s underpowered, is about a 20% upgrade from my current setup. I know it will handle most new games just fine because my current PC does.

    I don’t have the finances to spend £1000 or more on a better system right now, as I’m saving for a wedding, a house, and potentially a child. If I’m choosing a cheap prebuilt, I’d prefer the Steam Machine because it’s compact and will fit in my living room, while I can keep my other PC in the office for work. It’s an immediate buy for me next year if I can save up some money.

  31. The Steam Machine is perfect for me as well. I was a console-only gamer until recently, and I’ve grown tired of Xbox. Now I own a Steam Deck, which is the only non-work PC I have, and I love it.

    The Steam Machine fits exactly what I’m looking for. I like the idea of investing in a high-spec setup with a 50 series GPU eventually, but as a parent with a toddler, I don’t want a desk setup that isolates me. The Steam Machine replicates my current gaming habits but with better hardware, an accessible form factor, and a more versatile experience.

    Since I play 95% single-player games, anti-cheat isn’t an issue for me. I’m not leaving Xbox entirely—I have too many owned games to abandon it completely—so I can still play Xbox Game Pass titles on day one and occasional multiplayer games on my Series X.

    On top of all that, I really dislike Windows. SteamOS is far superior.

  32. I was really excited about the Steam Machine until I heard Valve employees suggest it would cost around $700-$800. That price point is just too high for me, especially when I could build a more powerful computer for the same amount of money.

    1. Based on my research and comparisons to similarly performing PCs, the realistic price range is $600–700.

      While they might push it to $750, there’s no way the base configuration will cost $800.

  33. As a 55-year-old software developer using MacOS on my laptop and Debian Linux on an Intel NUC desktop, I used to build PCs in the 90s but now prefer simplicity over chasing specs. I’ve owned many consoles over the years, but lost interest due to cost. These days, I just want to play older titles, indie games, and emulators at decent frame rates when the mood strikes. A Steam Machine suits my needs perfectly.

    2. I feel the same way. I grew tired of constantly upgrading hardware just to chase the best graphics. I’d rather have a stable game that looks like a PS4 title but is genuinely fun and engaging. I don’t need ray tracing or 4K at 120fps.

      It’s fine if that’s what someone else wants, but I’m tired of it being the standard expectation for games.

  34. Depending on the price, I plan to get one for decent couch gaming without relying on streaming. CEC support will make launching games much easier than trying to set it up on a self-built system.

    Since I don’t have a modern console aside from the Switch, this will make playing co-op games I already own on PC with my wife much more convenient.

  35. If you had kept your old powerful PC, you could have installed Steam OS on it instead of buying a Steam Machine. You would have had the same operating system with better hardware. The Steam Machine is still interesting for potential software upgrades, much like the Steam Deck, and the hardware is appealing too, but that really depends on the final price.

  36. I’m very interested in the Steam Machine, but the price is still unknown, so I’m waiting to see how it turns out. I love my Steam Deck, and I think this would be a perfect companion for it. I hope the price reveal isn’t disappointingly high.

  37. As a PC user since the 90s, I started scaling back on having the best rig when 30-series cards went wild and crypto farms drove up prices. I picked up an Xbox Series X a few years ago and recently a PS5, but I still love my Steam games.

    I switched to Linux, as my username suggests, and haven’t looked back. I just got the Steam Deck and plan to be first in line for this “Gabecube.”

    It’s for many people, even longtime PC enthusiasts like me.

  38. The Steam Machine is perfect for your needs.

    The only alternative would be spending significantly more on a much faster small form factor PC and installing Bazzite on it. You’d get better performance with the same user experience.

    But if performance isn’t a priority, there’s no reason to spend extra money and handle the setup yourself.

  39. Valve has two key advantages to prevent the Steam Machine from failing: Steam, which generates significant revenue, and the hardware survey, which helps them optimize future earnings.

    While enthusiasts are the most vocal online, they aren’t the target audience for the Steam Machine. The real target is the 70% of users Valve mentioned.

    These users will get a computer with tailored hardware and an OS, similar to Apple’s approach. It will be convenient, supported by Valve, and driven by community involvement, much like the Steam Deck with its many projects.

    For me, this completes the ecosystem: a gaming PC at my desk, a Steam Deck for on-the-go, and a Steam Machine in the living room.

    I no longer have to decide where to buy a game or whether I’ll play it mostly on the TV or while traveling. There will be one system with different hardware for every situation.

  40. The Steam Machine seems to fit a relatively niche category, and you appear to be a perfect match for it, particularly for playing older titles given its capabilities.

  41. As someone with a Steam library dating back to 2004, I don’t want to start over with a new collection on a console. I own an Xbox but rarely use it because I always return to my older PC games.

    Since I’m not invested in the Xbox platform, I plan to sell my Series X and either buy a Steam Machine or build a SteamOS PC for my living room. Ultimately, I just want a simple box to play my games.

    I understand the struggle console players face when leaving their games behind—for me, it’s the opposite.

  42. While you can’t guarantee that every future PlayStation game will appeal to you, it’s safe to assume that if there’s a PS6 generation game you want, it won’t run on a Steam Machine.

    Some less demanding AA games from Sony might work, but I wouldn’t buy a Steam Machine expecting to play next-gen titles.

    Keep in mind that a Steam Machine is essentially an entry-level PC.

  43. Depending on the price, I’m considering getting one for my two kids. It solves the issue of limited space and meets their needs for both gaming and accessing their school website for homework, since it can boot into desktop mode. Having the same machine for both also makes it easier for me to configure if necessary.

    It’s also a win for my son, who wants to get into coding, as he can start learning Linux on the Steam Machine.

    I’m just waiting for the price reveal to decide if this is worth it.

  44. I have a PC with a GTX 970. While I’ve always been a console gamer, this build was my attempt to get into PC gaming. I didn’t enjoy building it, and I don’t like the ongoing troubleshooting it requires. I do like using it for media and playing the occasional PC exclusive, though it barely runs anything now. When it dies or can’t run new games anymore, I’ll switch to a Steam Machine.

  46. If frame rate is a major concern for you, the Steam Machine may not be the best choice. You can expect a 1080p30fps experience in many demanding AAA games, as it’s less powerful than a base PS5. Even with console optimizations, the PS5 often offers a choice between a visually impressive 30fps quality mode and a less polished 60fps performance mode in titles like Final Fantasy XVI, VII Rebirth, or Black Myth WuKong. This gap is likely to widen as more demanding games release.

    I highly recommend getting accustomed to 40fps. SteamOS has an excellent frame rate locking feature, and 40fps feels significantly smoother than 30fps while being easier to run. If you have a 120Hz display, it’s arguably the best way to play more demanding games, though the most intensive titles may still run at 30fps.

  47. Depending on the price, you might be better off getting a standard PC, installing SteamOS, and connecting it to your TV for a console-like setup with a controller.

    If you don’t want to deal with that, the Steam Machine is perfect. The original model from ten years ago didn’t appeal to either console or PC players, but a lot has changed since then.

    Thanks to the Steam Deck, more games are compatible with Linux gaming, though I’m not sure how it works with distributions other than SteamOS. Just be aware that some games, particularly multiplayer titles with anti-cheat software, may not be supported.

  48. When I used a PS4 as my main console, my dad played often too. Since I switched to PC, he can’t play on his own because it’s in my bedroom and he struggles with the keyboard. I have a server-like connection to the TV so he can play, but he rarely does since I’m usually using it.

    I plan to sell my PS5 because I don’t use it as much as I used to, partly due to PS+ prices, and I’ll be getting the Steam Machine for him instead.

    1. I hope they use the same approach as they did with the Steam Deck: a low-cost preorder deposit, followed by the final invoice when shipping is near. That gave me a year to set aside the right amount.

      1. In a recent interview on the Friends Per Second podcast, the team confirmed that the Steam Machine won’t be subsidized and will sell for roughly the cost of its PC components. Based on that, I estimate it will be around $750–$800. I’m still hoping they reconsider the decision not to subsidize it.

        1. The Steam Machine will likely sell for roughly the cost of its PC components. The key question is whether that price reflects retail part costs or Valve’s bulk purchasing savings. The controller will also influence my decision.

        2. The Steam Machine costs around £650 after conversion, while my 512GB LCD model was about £560. In my opinion, the price difference isn’t too bad. I’d prefer it to be cheaper, and the final cost will determine whether and when I upgrade.

  50. The Steam Machine is a perfect fit for my situation. I was a PC gamer when I had fewer responsibilities and more disposable income, but over the last decade, hardware costs have risen and I don’t have as much time for gaming. Currently, I use a Rog Ally with a GeForce Now subscription and occasionally Xbox Game Pass.

    This setup works well for me, but some games in my library, like RDR2, aren’t streamable and are too demanding for the Rog Ally to run smoothly.

    A Steam Machine would allow me to play natively again while still using Steam Link when I prefer the handheld. It would also eliminate the need for my GeForce Now subscription.

  51. I would have done the same and sold it, which is why I never built one myself. I don’t judge Windows users—that would be childish—but personally, I don’t want to deal with it after spending $1000 on something.

    I’m glad your Steam Deck is working well for you. Do you connect it to a TV and use a controller? I bought a Nintendo Switch years ago, but I still find the catalog limited outside of games like Zelda and Mario Kart. I almost got a Steam Deck too, but then I bought a PS5 and my budget disappeared.

    1. I sometimes connect my Deck to the TV and play with an 8bitdo controller, and while it works, the experience isn’t great. You need to find a good dock, a reliable cable, and a suitable controller, then manage the controller’s battery. You can’t wake the system from the controller, there’s no CEC support with the TV, downloads don’t happen in sleep mode, and the controller lacks some buttons and the trackpad that are occasionally necessary.

      None of these issues are dealbreakers, but they add up as minor frustrations, especially when comparing it side-by-side with a Switch. The Switch includes one dock, the right cable, and its own controllers—two of them—and you don’t have to worry about battery management or the other problems I mentioned.

      That’s why I’m looking forward to the Steam Controller even more than the Steam Machine. I want both, but the controller will address a more immediate issue I’m facing.

  54. The Steam Machine would be perfect for me to keep at work so I can play games between shifts. It’s compact enough to store in my locker next to my PS5. However, I’m not sure I’d buy it if it costs over $800.

  55. I haven’t used a console in years since I have a well-built PC and an Asus ROG handheld, but I’m definitely getting the Steam Machine. It will let me play games on my TV without moving my entire setup or dealing with the performance drop from connecting my handheld to the TV without an external GPU. Plus, it makes it easier for my kids to access their Steam libraries from the couch.

    As I get older, I want things to be simpler, and Steam offers that with its huge game library.

  56. The Steam Machine seems aimed at console gamers. While the initial cost may be higher than other consoles, you can play online for free without a subscription, and games are often cheaper, especially during Steam sales. You also get access to a huge library of indie games.

  57. The Steam Machine is a niche product designed for people like us.

    I plan to get one on day one. Since the Steam Deck is my only computer, it makes perfect sense to add the machine. It also features suspend/resume and the ability to wake with a controller.

    1. What specific use case are you referring to? I’m not clear on what niche category the original poster identifies with.

      Is this for users who dislike Windows? What issues are you encountering with Windows that cause so many problems? Steam OS has its own significant drawbacks, as you’ll quickly notice if you visit the Steam Deck subreddit.

      Reading through these comments, it seems most people view the Steam Machine as a solution in search of a problem.

      1. The Steam Machine is ideal for someone who wants a simple plug-and-play PC for their living room TV. Key benefits for me include waking it with a controller and, more importantly, the suspend/resume feature.

          1. In most cases, it is. Perhaps I should have said “simpler” rather than “simple,” but the point still stands.

          2. The Steam Deck is great for Steam games, but it becomes difficult if you want to do anything PC-related, like using mods, playing non-Steam games, or running older titles.

            Would I replace my Steam Deck with a Windows alternative? No—the price and specs are too good to pass up.

            But would I recommend it to most of my friends and colleagues who prefer simplicity? Also no.

          3. That’s a fair point, but the vast majority of Steam games will run on the machine without issues, which is what I prefer.

          4. You’re missing the point. Someone who values plug-and-play access to their Steam library is unlikely to mod games.

            I want a device that can access my Steam library, handles updates automatically, and is ready to play the moment I pick up the controller—either already in a game or immediately available to start one.

            A Windows device doesn’t meet that need. I don’t believe any PC configuration can receive the same device-specific driver updates and patches as a Steam Machine running Steam OS or another Linux distribution.

      2. The Steam Machine makes perfect sense for me too. I’ve kept my SteamOS systems running with just a controller for months without needing a keyboard for any prompts. It wasn’t the same with Windows, and I’m glad I switched.

        I don’t want to reconfigure Windows or plug in a keyboard just to deal with Microsoft’s constant ads after updates. They repeatedly ask if you want to use OneDrive, try Office365, or link your phone, even if you decline.

        SteamOS has no bloatware, saving drive space and avoiding unwanted software. My three SteamOS devices handle sleep and resume instantly, and all updates are automated without needing a keyboard or mouse.

        My main PC runs Windows for Battlefield 6, and my sim racing rig uses it for iRacing. But all my couch PCs and my Vivobook Ryzen AI laptop have been converted to SteamOS (specifically Bazzite) with AMD graphics.

        I’ve used SteamOS since the Steam Deck launched, and it’s been nearly flawless. The docking station was a hassle, but the Steam Deck itself has given me no trouble.

    2. The Steam Machine is a niche product made for people like you and me.

      I plan to get one on day one as well. Since the Steam Deck and my PC are the only computers I own, it makes perfect sense to add the machine. It also includes features like suspend/resume and the ability to wake with a controller.

    3. The Steam Machine is well-suited for its target audience, as described in your use case. It’s particularly appealing for Steam Deck users who want a more powerful, TV-connected version, as well as for those who previously used the Steam Link and are looking for a versatile replacement. Linux enthusiasts may also find it attractive as a Valve-supported, compact device for running emulators or media apps like Roku.

      However, gamers expecting an affordable, console-like Steam experience with top-tier performance after a long upgrade hiatus may be disappointed.

  58. Many “dead on arrival” claims seem to boil down to “I won’t buy it, so it must be a failure,” often due to speculated price or hardware specs.

    I’ve always been a PlayStation person. I grew up with consoles, starting with the Wii and then the Xbox 360. The PS4 was the first console I bought with my own money, mainly for Spider-Man, and I got the PS5 for Mortal Kombat 1. Between those, there were many PC-exclusive games I wanted to play but couldn’t. As a software developer, I have no interest in sourcing PC parts or tracking prices—it just doesn’t appeal to me. I considered a Steam Deck last December but never followed through.

    If I can afford it, I’ll definitely buy the Steam Machine. Since I live with my partner, I prefer a device we can both use for co-op games occasionally. I also look forward to installing Kodi so we can have a unified media box.

  59. I’m in the same situation, but with Xbox instead of PlayStation. I no longer want to pay for Xbox Live, since I’m an adult with kids and limited gaming time, so Game Pass feels relatively expensive. I’ve considered getting a gaming PC since I already work from home on my computer, but I’m put off by driver issues, hardware updates, and playing in the same spot where I work all day.

    Like you, I enjoy Steam’s library and occasionally want to play older games. The Steam Machine seems ideal for my needs—it covers everything I’m looking for. With many games supporting crossplay, I can still play with friends. I have no plans to buy the next Xbox or PlayStation, so this seems perfect.

    If the price is reasonable, I’ll likely get one. It’s great to see others in the same position.

  60. The Steam Machine makes perfect sense for me as well. I own a PS5 with a 4K display and play many games on it, but I still comfortably switch back to my older 1080p monitors and enjoy Cyberpunk at 35fps in 1080p. I don’t really get the emphasis on 4K at 60fps.

    1. The PS5 games I play at 60fps likely aren’t running in native 4K, so the difference may just come down to frame rate. I notice this debate keeps circling around personal preferences, and it seems endless. If you can easily switch back without issue, I’m genuinely envious of that.

      2. There was a time when graphics were my top priority in gaming.

        Then I realized: it’s a video *game*. The gameplay is what truly makes a game great.

        So I gradually shifted my focus away from obsessing over graphics, resolution, and fps.

          1. Below 25 fps is not acceptable, even for a fraction of a second. However, maintaining a consistent 30 fps is generally fine beyond that point.

    1. I wish it were a bit more powerful to give it a longer lifespan. The timing is odd since current consoles are already mid-life or past their prime, and this will be weaker than them. It will struggle with next-gen games, so it’s best for those who are fine playing current and older titles—sort of a bridge until the next console generation. With that in mind, it should really be under $800 to feel worthwhile.

  63. I’ve grown tired of current consoles and want to return to PC gaming, but with today’s prices, building a high-end gaming PC doesn’t make sense for me. I’m not interested in new, demanding games anyway.

    If the Steam Machine is reasonably priced, it would be perfect for my needs. As long as it can run Resident Evil Requiem, I won’t need a better PC. Most of my Steam library is from before 2016, and I don’t care about ray tracing, 4K, or even 1440p. I’m happy with 1080p gaming. My main reason for returning to PC is emulation and using GoG to play older titles like the original Resident Evil 2 and 3.

    Ultimately, it comes down to price. If it costs the same as building my own PC, I’ll get one. If it’s more expensive than building a PC with better specs, I won’t bother.

  65. You won’t know if the Steam Machine is for you without knowing the price. Are you willing to pay $800 or $900 for it? We can’t determine who it’s for until we know how much it will cost.

    1. I wasn’t really focusing on the price. What interests me most is the overall concept of the machine. If it allows me to save money on games in the long run—since many are cheaper than on console and there are no subscriptions—and gives me access to a wider library, then I would be willing to invest in it.

        1. As a console player who wants more freedom, the Steam Machine appeals to me. My personal spending choices don’t change the validity of the concept itself.

          1. Your post is asking if this machine, which you need to purchase to own, is right for you. That’s exactly the point you’re making.

          2. You’re right to ask that. How can you know if something is for you without knowing the price? None of us can decide if it’s worth it until we see the cost relative to the specs. That’s just how buying electronics—or anything, really—works.

          3. To clarify, my original post wasn’t about whether this machine is right for me or if I should purchase it. I was asking whether others with similar setups or gaming habits are also interested in the concept. I’m already confident it suits my needs. Price will be a factor later, but that wasn’t the focus of my post.

  68. You do you!

    Personally, I’m disappointed that it’s likely to be more expensive. Based on recent quotes, it’s killed all my hype. I went from really wanting one to having zero interest. I’ll check out VR reviews and might get that instead, but I’m done trying to convince my friends to keep an eye on this machine. They prefer consoles, which is why it interested them, but not at this price.

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