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[Discussion] I am finally in the Steam Machine reservation queue. Can you guys convince me to CANCEL my reservation? (piefed.social)
submitted 2 days ago by to c/steamdeck@sopuli.xyz
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I am in the Steam Machine 2026 reservation queue now. Please convince me NOT to buy one. I don't really have a gaming PC right now. I am hoping that the Steam Machine can replace my productivity laptop, so I can play modern games on it and also have better general performance for productivity apps.

My current gaming setup:

  • Laptop with integrated Intel Iris XE graphics (only for productivity and limited 2D gaming)
  • 1440p monitor
  • Xbox series S
  • Switch Lite
  • Switch 2
  • Logitech G Cloud
  • GeForce Now performance subscription

I spend most of the time playing on handhelds (native/streaming), but occasionally on the computer monitor. Currently I stream from either GFN or the Xbox (remote play) to my Logitech G Cloud.

I have a huge backlog, and very limited time to play games due to busy life.

Other points to consider:

  1. Xbox series S is too weak for some recent games, even at 1080p
  2. I am not just going to use the Steam Machine with the monitor, I will mostly stream the Steam Machine to my Logitech G Cloud
  3. I don't mind the Linux desktop environment, I actually prefer it over Windows
  4. Gaming laptops are too hot and noisy
  5. I don't want a large Windows PC, I like the steam machine form factor.
  6. My Xbox series S is also used only for streaming to my Logitech G Cloud
  7. GeForce Now has a limited library, there are many steam games I want that are not available on GFN
  8. I've considered getting a Mac Mini, but the new one is too expensive.
  9. I worry that GFN will raise their prices or put further limits. Or new games I want won't be available on GFN. I feel like with GFN, I own nothing and it is out of my control.
  10. I love retro games and emulation (The Logitech G Cloud is too weak for PS2/Gamecube/PS3 emulation)
  11. I have very good internet connectivity and good wifi 7.

Additionally:

  • Gaming handhelds such as the Steamdeck and ROG Ally are too big and heavy.
  • I want to be able to play upcoming games such as Fable and Elder's Scroll 6
  • I do not need to play on the couch with TV
  • I only play single player games, mostly RPGs
  • I enjoy the cheaper game prices of Steam (vs Xbox/Nintendo)
  • I don't need native Microsoft 365 apps, I am happy with Linux apps
  • I don't trust most mini PC brands
  • I am mostly a patient gamer, and often wait until at least 50% discount to buy games
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[–] 9 points 2 days ago (2 children)

Based on what you said, you can get a slightly cheaper pre built that's more powerful. It'll run the newer games better. The cube will struggle even on 1080 on a lot of the new AAA games. The cube premium is mostly to do with the form factor and console like features such as the CEC control for your media center. If you don't care about that or the form factor get a cheaper pre built probably and install steamos or one of the forks.

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  • [–] 5 points 1 day ago* (last edited 1 day ago)

    He did say he didn't want a large PC. My gaming computer is damn near as small as it gets -- see size comparison pic below -- but (a) even that's over twice the size of a Gabe Cube, and (b) the ITX motherboard and SFX PSU do add some amount to the cost, along with the case itself. (I would've also mentioned the mandatory AIO cooler my particular case requires, but it turns out those are surprisingly cheap these days.)

    (Note the Steam Machine measures 156 × 152 × 162.4 mm. About the same width as my A4-H2O, but only 2/3 as tall and 1/2 as deep.)

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