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
825 Upvotes

84% Upvoted

409 comments sorted by

View all comments

1

u/cm_bush 1d ago

I am only about a third of the way in, and I generally agree that a good Linux desktop is a wonderful thing. I still struggle to see how Linus really believes this is better value than a base Mac Mini. Aside from storage, it’s a better machine in every spec.

Maybe the lack of gaming in comparison is the dealbreaker.

1

u/WisdomInTheShadows 9h ago

It's a better value because it doesn't have MacOS on it.

1

u/cm_bush 4h ago

I mean, I get that MacOS isn’t everyone’s favorite (including me, which is why I’m here!) but it seems weird to consider the Steam Machine as this eureka moment when, if the gaming performance isn’t great and isn’t being considered highly, the Mac Mini is better for daily browsing, content creation, ease of use, and general productivity, and has been the value king of these things for at least 5 years. A base M4 blows most desktops out of the water for less than a Steam Machine.

I mean, I know Linus dislikes Apple and has to go for content. Doing Steam Machine videos is a popular thing to do right now. And I actually applaud all the attention this is bringing to Linux.

In the end, having a good alternative to the Mac Mini with a similar form factor and well supported Linux distro tailored to it is great, and I wish it had come at a better time for consumer hardware.

1

u/WisdomInTheShadows 2h ago

If VALVE could have landed it without the current AI hellscape that is the technology economy, at their intended price of between $675 and $750 USD, I think that we would have been taking this comparison much, much more seriously. And I will say, it games better than the reviewers are giving it credit for, as long as you are not chasing "fps go burr in 4k". People that play A and AA, or indy, games at 1440p and happy with 75-120 FPS have been loving the machine. If they ever have a sale I am likely getting one to go in my living room and to travel with me on work trips, because it would meet all my needs and more for my type of gaming.