With its compact design, SteamOS interface, and promise of instant access to the Steam library, the Steam Machine can feel like a console. But according to Valve, that’s not exactly the right reasoning. “The Steam Machine is an alternative to the PC rather than an alternative to consoles.” In other words, it’s aimed at PC gamers who want a living room machine without the usual complications of computer gaming. However, the general public continues to compare it to the PS5 Pro… and the verdict is not favorable.
Specs clearly behind the competition
Technically, the Steam Machine falls short of consoles from Sony and Microsoft. Its GPU caps at 28 CU compared to 60 for the PS5 Pro, and it has two fewer processor cores. “The Steam Machine offers a 28 CU (140 watts) GPU, while the more powerful PlayStation 5 Pro and Xbox Series X offer 60 CU (220 watts) and 52 CU (220 watts) respectively.” This results in reduced performance, especially in multitasking and intensive graphics rendering. It offers equivalent storage, but with a less efficient architecture. In summary: a machine designed for simplicity, but which risks frustrating those looking for raw power.
A price that divides… even internally
Valve has not yet made the price official, but according to the Linus Tech Tips channel, several options have been considered internally. The “entry-level console” model mentioned at $500 would not have convinced. “The mood in the room wasn’t great.” The price could ultimately be between $700 and $1,000, according to the latest leaks. “We now fear that the price will be between $700 and $1,000.” At this price, the Steam Machine would become more expensive than a digital PS5 Pro, sold for $749.99. And this, without a disk drive or support included.
Steam Machine: silent revolution or false good idea?
The Steam Machine project has a good intention: to simplify access to PC gaming for the general public. But with lower specs and a price higher than the most powerful consoles on the market, its positioning raises questions. Add to this the uncertainty over the RAM shortage, which could further drive up costs. “I advise you to take all of this with a grain of salt.” We will have to wait for Valve’s official announcement to decide. But at this stage, the Steam Machine seems stuck between two worlds… at the risk of convincing neither PC purists nor console fans.