Valve’s Steam Machine has been making waves for its incredibly compact design, but for those wondering if it can replace a dedicated console, the answer is complicated. At a $1,049 price point, it is undeniably expensive for the level of performance on offer. If you are strictly looking for a gaming machine and don't already have a massive Steam library, you are likely better served by a PS5 or an Xbox Series X.
Performance Testing: Steam Machine vs. PS5
To see how the hardware holds up, I tested four titles side-by-side with the PS5 in its 'Performance' mode. Using a baseline of the medium preset and 4K output with FSR set to 'Performance,' the results were mixed. In well-optimized titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Resident Evil Requiem, the Steam Machine had no trouble keeping pace with the console, consistently hitting or staying near the 60 fps mark.
However, the experience faltered in more demanding software. In 007 First Light, the Steam Machine averaged 53 fps at 4K, suffering from noticeable dips to 35 fps during intense explosions. While lowering the resolution to 1800p stabilized the frame rate to around 70 fps, it highlights the constant tinkering required to get PC performance to match the "plug-and-play" nature of the PS5.
The Death Stranding 2 Problem
The biggest gap appeared in Death Stranding 2. While the PS5 maintains a locked 60 fps, the Steam Machine struggled to maintain 35 fps at 4K. Even after dropping settings to 'Low' and the resolution to 1440p, performance hovered between 45-50 fps. To achieve a stable 60 fps, I had to drop the output to 1080p and enable dynamic resolution scaling. The visual trade-off was stark; the PS5 version offered significantly better global illumination and denser vegetation, making the Steam Machine’s output look closer to a last-gen experience.
Is the Form Factor Worth the Price?
The Steam Machine’s primary advantage is its size—it is roughly one-third the volume of a PS5 and runs significantly quieter under load. However, you are paying a premium for that portability. The ability to adjust graphical settings is a hallmark of PC gaming, allowing you to prioritize resolution or frame rate as you see fit. Yet, for the average player, the consistent, optimized experience on a PS5 is hard to beat for the price. If you aren't already invested in the PC ecosystem, the Steam Machine is a fascinating piece of hardware, but it is ultimately a niche device that struggles to justify its high cost against current console standards.