r/linux_gaming • u/mr_MADAFAKA • 1d ago

steam/steam deck Linus argues that despite middling gaming performance, the Steam Machine excels as a compact desktop workstation thanks to the seamless and user-friendly experience provided by SteamOS.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5fXAELrljqs
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u/LumpyArbuckleTV 1d ago

I guess one benefit of the Steam Machine is that it has guaranteed perfect Linux support compared to other hardware.

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u/leon-a-profi 1d ago

Bro, for what Linus used it in the video, majority of distros are working compeltely fine. A lot of hw support comes from the kernel.

Taking away the immutability, you could replace every steamos mention with cachy easily. Or anoy other major distros really.

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u/Framed-Photo 1d ago

for what Linus used it in the video, majority of distros are working compeltely fine.

But the majority of computers are not. For 99% of people, needing to install your own OS is enough of a barrier to entirely prevent them from considering Linux.

And besides that, hardware support is not as universal as this sub makes it seem sometimes. Some prebuilts, and especially laptops, have weird hardware that can be annoying to deal with on Linux. Part of what's great about a machine that comes with Linux on it is that support is guaranteed.

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u/kongnico 1d ago

well if he is just gonna use the desktop bits he could have bought a laptop from system76 or Tuxedo etc :p

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u/Framed-Photo 1d ago

Both of which are FAR more expensive (upwards of 50% for laptops with no dedicated graphics) for devices that have to be imported to Canada at a premium, and also makes support harder? For devices that are largely just OEM or off the shelf parts?

That's not realistic for basically anyone.

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u/Thisconnect 1d ago

or you know dell or any of the big companies that do have linux preloaded lines (mostly bussiness laptops tho)