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Building a new Steam Machine PC games console in 2024

Building a Steam Machine PC games console today

When you step into the world of PC gaming, you’re greeted with some undeniable perks. One of the biggest draws is that online play often comes without the extra cost of a subscription service, which can save you money in the long run. The selection of games available to PC gamers is not just vast; it’s also filled with exclusive titles that you won’t find on any console. The beauty of PC gaming is in its diversity and the freedom it offers to players.

Valve, a major player in the PC gaming industry, has recognized the need for accessibility and has introduced several initiatives way back in 2014 to make PC gaming more approachable. They tried to blend the flexibility of PCs with the comfort of the living room through their Steam Machines. Their Big Picture Mode transformed the Steam interface to work better with controllers, making it a great option for those who love to game from their couch.

The Steam Controller was Valve’s innovative approach to combine the comfort of traditional gamepads with the precision that comes with mouse and keyboard setups. For those who love Linux, Valve’s Proton has been a significant development, making it possible to play many Windows-based games on Linux systems without too much trouble.

Steam Machine PC games console

If you are interested in building a dedicated PC games console, building a similar device to a Steam Machine in 2024 is definitely a viable way forward and allows you to enjoy PC gaming from the comfort of your couch. Check out the video below to learn more about what you need and how to build a  parable Steam Machine today. 10 years on from when the first was launched.

Valve’s latest creation, the Steam Deck, is their foray into the world of portable gaming. This device is designed to bring the full PC gaming experience into a handheld form, demonstrating the adaptability of PC gaming by fitting an entire gaming rig into something you can hold in your hands.

For those who enjoy building things themselves, putting together a custom Steam Machine in 2024 using Chimera OS can be a rewarding project. This Linux-based operating system is designed with gaming in mind and comes with a controller-friendly interface, making it an attractive option for your home entertainment system.

However, it’s not all smooth sailing. Gaming on Linux can come with its own set of challenges, such as limited support for some anti-cheat services and issues with hardware compatibility. But the gaming community is resourceful and often comes up with solutions by working together and sharing their knowledge.

Looking to the future, the potential for PCs that offer a console-like experience with controller-friendly interfaces is enormous. The ability to customize your setup and the long-term value that PC gaming offers are compelling reasons for many gamers to consider this platform. As more companies explore handhelds and PCs that mimic consoles, we can expect to see an even greater blending of the console and PC gaming worlds. In one way Valve has replace the Steam Machines of old with its new Steam Deck games console.

Whether you’re drawn to the straightforward and familiar  games console experience provided by giants like Sony and Microsoft, or you’re intrigued by the limitless possibilities of gaming on a PC games console, the gaming landscape is filled with options. Valve’s efforts have significantly improved the accessibility of PC gaming, and the Steam Deck is a bold step towards a more integrated gaming future. When weighing the initial investment against the lasting benefits, keep in mind that the choice is yours, and an entire universe of gaming is waiting for you to discover it. Here are some other articles you may find of interest on the subject of Steam hardware and games :

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Steam Deck OLED vs Legion Go teardown comparison by iFixit

Steam Deck OLED vs Legion Go

If you are interested in learning more about the Steam Deck OLED and Legion Go handheld games consoles. You will be pleased to know that the team over at iFixit have wasted no time taking there tools to the consoles to show you their inner workings.

Let’s explore inside these new portable gaming devices, where the Lenovo Legion Go vs Valve Steam Deck are battling it out. Now, these gadgets aren’t just about giving you a killer gaming session; they’re also about how long they’ll last and how easy they are to fix. That’s right, we’re talking about repairability, and it’s a big deal for those of us who love our tech and our planet.

So, the Lenovo Legion Go is a real eye-catcher with its huge 8.8-inch QHD display that makes games look amazing. It’s powered by an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme APU, which means it’s got the muscle for some serious gaming. But here’s the cool part: it’s built to be fixed up and upgraded without a fuss. You’ve got simple Philips head screws and a design that’s a breeze to take apart when you need to swap parts or do some tinkering.

Steam Deck OLED vs Legion Go

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Want more storage? No sweat. The Legion Go has an M.2 drive slot that’s a piece of cake to get to, so you can pop in a new drive in no time. And if the battery starts to give up the ghost, there are handy pull tabs to help you get it out—just be gentle and patient. Lenovo’s also thrown in their LA1 AI chip to keep your gaming smooth and power-efficient, and the thumbsticks have these nifty hall effect sensors for extra durability. It’s not all perfect, though. The controller could be simpler, and the cables inside could be neater, but hey, nothing’s perfect, right?

Now, let’s talk about the Valve Steam Deck, the OLED version, to be precise. Valve’s really stepped up their game here. They’ve got a shiny new 6nm processor and some smart design changes that make fixing things easier. They’re using Torx screws and metal-threaded pillars, which are all about lasting longer and making maintenance a breeze. They’ve even moved some buttons around and rotated the M.2 drive to cut down on interference.

But, changing the battery can still be a bit of a hassle, and if you’ve got the older LCD model, you can’t just swap in parts from the OLED one. That said, Valve is doing something awesome by offering their own parts and repair guides to everyone, so you can take care of your device like a pro.

Alright, let’s talk scores. The Valve Steam Deck is scoring big with a repairability score of 9 out of 10. That’s pretty impressive and shows they’re serious about making a device that’s friendly for repairs and upgrades. The Lenovo Legion Go isn’t far behind with a score of 8 out of 10. Lenovo could up their game by selling their own parts to the DIY crowd, which would be a solid move for repair enthusiasts.

Both the Lenovo Legion Go and the Valve Steam Deck are leading the charge in repair-friendly mobile gaming. They’re not just about awesome gaming; they’re about keeping your gear going strong and being kind to the environment. So, when you’re thinking about your next gaming gadget, remember that being able to fix it up is just as important as how well it plays your favorite games. These devices are living proof that you can have the best of both worlds.

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Steam Deck OLED vs ROG Ally vs Legion Play

Steam Deck OLED vs ROG Ally vs Legion

If you’re wondering what handheld gaming system you should purchase this holiday season you might be interested to know that awesome ETA Prime has created a great comparison overview video comparing the Steam Deck OLED vs ROG Ally vs Legion.  If you are in the market for a handheld gaming PC enabling you to enjoy your favorite virtual worlds wherever you go. The handheld gaming PC market is buzzing with options, each promising to deliver the thrills of gaming in a compact form. ETA Prime takes a closer look at three contenders that are making waves among gamers: the Steam Deck OLED, the ROG Flow Z13, and the Lenovo Legion Play.

Steam Deck OLED

  • Display: OLED, HDR support, 90 Hz refresh rate, 1000 nits peak brightness.
  • Processor/GPU: Custom AMD APU, Zen 2 architecture, RDNA 2 integrated GPU.
  • Storage: Options of 512 GB or 1 TB, expandable with Micro SD card.
  • Battery: 50 Wh, designed for extended gaming sessions.
  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E.
  • Weight: 640 grams.
  • Strengths: Superior screen quality, long battery life.
  • Ideal for: Gamers prioritizing visual quality and battery endurance.

ROG Flow Z13 (ROG Ally)

  • Display: 7-inch IPS, 120 Hz refresh rate, FreeSync technology.
  • Processor/GPU: AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme CPU (Zen 4), RDNA 3 integrated GPU.
  • Storage: Supports Micro SD card.
  • Battery: 40 Wh with 65W fast charging.
  • Weight: Lightest at 608 grams.
  • Strengths: High performance, smooth gameplay, fast charging.
  • Ideal for: Performance-focused gamers who value portability.

Lenovo Legion Play

  • Display: 8.8-inch IPS, 144 Hz refresh rate.
  • Processor/GPU: Same as ROG Flow Z13.
  • Storage: 512 GB or 1 TB, with SSD upgrade option.
  • Battery: 49.2 Wh with 65W fast charging.
  • Weight: Heaviest at 854 grams.
  • Unique Feature: Detachable controllers.
  • Strengths: Large screen, flexible control options, balanced battery life.
  • Ideal for: Gamers who prefer a larger screen and versatile controls.

In summary, each device has distinct strengths:

  • Steam Deck OLED excels in display quality and battery life.
  • ROG Flow Z13 offers top-tier performance and is highly portable.
  • Lenovo Legion Play stands out with its large screen and controller versatility.

Steam Deck OLED vs ROG Ally vs Legion

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Steam Deck OLED

The Steam Deck OLED is a sight to behold for those who appreciate stunning visuals. It’s powered by a custom AMD APU that blends the efficiency of Zen 2 architecture with the graphical prowess of an RDNA 2 integrated GPU. The highlight is its OLED display, which boasts HDR support, a smooth 90 Hz refresh rate, and a peak brightness that can reach 1000 nits. This means your games will not only look vibrant but also run smoothly.

You can choose between 512 GB or 1 TB of storage, and if that’s not enough, there’s room for expansion with a Micro SD card. The 50 Wh battery is designed to keep you gaming for longer, and with Wi-Fi 6E, you’ll enjoy fast wireless connectivity. At 640 grams, it’s a solid device that won’t weigh you down.

Rog Ally

For those who are all about performance, the ROG Flow Z13, also known as Rog Ally, might just be the ticket. It’s equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z1 Extreme CPU, which is based on the latest Zen 4 architecture, and an RDNA 3 integrated GPU, making it a powerhouse for gaming. The 7-inch IPS display may not be OLED, but it impresses with a 120 Hz refresh rate and FreeSync technology, ensuring your gameplay is as smooth as it gets. The 40 Wh battery might seem small, but thanks to 65W fast charging, you’ll be back in action in no time. It also supports Micro SD cards and is the lightest among the three, weighing just 608 grams, which is perfect for gamers on the move.

Lenovo Legion Play

Then there’s the Lenovo Legion Play, which is a dream for those who love a big screen and flexible control options. It sports an 8.8-inch IPS display with a 144 Hz refresh rate, so you’re in for an immersive gaming session. It shares the same CPU and GPU as the ROG Flow Z13, so you won’t be compromising on performance. You can opt for 512 GB or 1 TB of storage, and there’s even the possibility to upgrade the SSD. The 49.2 Wh battery, along with 65W fast charging, strikes a nice balance between playtime and charging convenience. The detachable controllers are a neat feature, although at 854 grams, it’s the heaviest of the bunch.

CPU and GPU performance

When it comes to the nitty-gritty of CPU and GPU performance, the ROG Flow Z13 and Lenovo Legion Play have a slight edge over the Steam Deck OLED, especially if you’re not too worried about battery life. However, the Steam Deck OLED still delivers efficient performance with less power, which could be a deal-maker for those who prioritize battery life.

Display quality is another battleground. The Steam Deck OLED’s screen is the best of the bunch, with exceptional brightness and viewing angles that make every game look fantastic. The ROG Flow Z13 and Lenovo Legion Play don’t lag far behind, offering high-quality IPS displays with high refresh rates, but they can’t quite reach the OLED’s level of contrast and color depth.

Battery life

Battery life is crucial for gaming on the go. The Steam Deck OLED takes the lead with its larger battery, while the ROG Flow Z13’s fast charging feature helps make up for its smaller battery size. The Lenovo Legion Play sits in the middle, offering a decent battery life that doesn’t quite match the Steam Deck OLED’s endurance.

Conclusions

Choosing the right handheld gaming PC is a personal journey. If a top-notch screen and long battery life are your main concerns, the Steam Deck OLED should be at the top of your list. If you’re drawn to a larger screen and the convenience of detachable controllers, the Lenovo Legion Play will serve you well. And for those who demand high performance and a display that keeps up with the action, the ROG Flow Z13 is the way to go.

Each of these handheld gaming PCs offers a unique set of features that cater to different gaming preferences. Whether you’re captivated by the visual splendor of the Steam Deck OLED, the performance and portability of the ROG Flow Z13, or the expansive display and controller versatility of the Lenovo Legion Play, there’s a device out there that’s perfect for your portable gaming adventures. By considering what matters most to you in your gaming experience, you’ll find the perfect companion to keep you entertained wherever life takes you.

Image Credit : ETA Prime

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Steam Deck OLED unboxing and first impressions

Steam Deck OLED unboxing and first impressionsThe highly anticipated launch of the new Steam Deck OLED has today arrived in the first next generation handheld game systems have been delivered. If you are interested in learning more about what you can expect from inside the box when you receive your new Steam Deck OLED. Or adjust interested in knowing a little more about the console before parting with your hard earned cash. This quick overview guide will provide plenty of information for you to make an informed decision. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a hardcore enthusiast, the Steam Deck OLED is designed to elevate your gaming experience to new heights.

Steam Deck OLED unboxing

The most noticeable upgrade in the OLED Steam Deck is its display. The device now sports a 7.4-inch OLED screen, a significant leap from the LCD version. This screen offers a 90Hz refresh rate and enhanced brightness, reaching up to 600 nits in Standard Dynamic Range (SDR) mode and a staggering 1,000 nits in High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode. This means gamers can enjoy a more vibrant and immersive visual experience, making every game feel more lifelike and engaging.

OLED display

  • Enhanced Screen Quality: It boasts a 7.4-inch OLED screen, offering a 90Hz refresh rate. This ensures smoother motion and more vibrant visuals.
  • Impressive Brightness Levels: With up to 600 nits in Standard Dynamic Range and 1,000 nits in High Dynamic Range, the device offers unmatched brightness and contrast.

Performance and Internals

Under the hood, the Steam Deck OLED packs significant upgrades:

  • Efficient Processing: Powered by a 6nm APU chip, it maintains the core specifications of its predecessor but with improved performance.
  • Faster RAM: The RAM speed is enhanced to 6,400 MHz, ensuring quicker loading and smoother gameplay.
  • Advanced Connectivity: With Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, expect faster, more reliable connections, crucial for online gaming and streaming.

Design and Ergonomics

Valve has meticulously designed the OLED Steam Deck for comfort and convenience:

  • Lightweight and Portable: Weighing just 640g, it’s lighter than the LCD version, despite its larger battery capacity.
  • Redesigned Carrying Case: The device comes with a new-look carrying case, complete with a detachable interior compartment for added personalization.

Battery Life and Efficiency

The OLED Steam Deck is designed for longer playtimes:

  • Extended Battery Life: Thanks to its 50Wh battery and efficient power management, the device offers 30-50% more battery life than its predecessor.

HDR Gaming Experience

  • HDR Support: While the user interface doesn’t support HDR, games do, providing a dynamic and realistic visual experience.

Under the hood, the OLED Steam Deck is powered by a 6nm Accelerated Processing Unit (APU) chip. While the core specifications remain the same as the previous model, the chip has undergone a die shrink from the earlier 7nm, resulting in improved performance and efficiency.

The device’s RAM speed has also been ramped up, from 5,500 MHz to 6,400 MHz. This enhancement ensures smoother gameplay and faster loading times, making for a more seamless and enjoyable gaming experience.  The OLED Steam Deck also comes with a redesigned carrying case featuring a new logo and a detachable interior compartment. This case not only protects the device but also adds a touch of personalization and convenience for the users.

Should you buy the new Steam Deck OLED handheld games console?

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In terms of connectivity, the  Steam Deck OLED outperforms its predecessor. It supports Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, offering faster and more reliable connections. This is particularly beneficial for online gaming and streaming, where a stable and high-speed connection is crucial.

Despite featuring a larger battery capacity of 50Wh, the OLED Steam Deck is lighter than the LCD version, weighing just 640g. This increased battery capacity, coupled with the device’s improved power efficiency, results in a longer battery life, allowing for extended gaming sessions without the need for frequent charging. The Steam Deck OLED also supports HDR in games, providing a more dynamic and realistic visual experience. However, it’s worth noting that this HDR support does not extend to the user interface.

Taking all these enhancements into account, the Steam Deck OLED version is a significant step up from the LCD version. While existing LCD Steam Deck owners may not find the upgrade necessary unless they are heavy users, for new buyers, the OLED version is a superior choice in almost every aspect. With its superior display, enhanced performance, and improved connectivity, the OLED Steam Deck is a compelling option for any gaming enthusiast. For more information and specifications as well as purchasing options jump over to the official Valve Steam Online Store where different handhelds with a selection of storage capacities are available to purchase.

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Steam Deck OLED Edition launches November 16th from $549

Steam Deck OLED handheld games console

As expected Valve has this week unveiled its new Steam Deck handheld games console equipped with an OLED screen. Offering gamers an upgrade on its original version improve the overall gaming experience from its portable gaming PC. The addition of an OLED display and new enhancements to Valve’s OLED Steam Deck provide gamers with a larger image, improved battery life, and faster WiFi connectivity. The OLED technology enhances the display quality with brighter, more vibrant colors, deeper blacks, and superior motion portrayal. The result is an immersive gaming experience with sharp, vivid, and incredibly realistic visuals.

The Steam Deck ergonomics have also been significantly improved. The device is lightweight and designed for comfort, making it perfect for long gaming sessions. The console-like experience is intuitive and user-friendly, featuring full-sized controls, trackpads, gyro, grip buttons, and a highly responsive touchscreen. The device also supports Bluetooth 5.3, ensuring a superior connection with other devices.

Steam Deck comparison chart

Battery life is a crucial consideration for any handheld gaming device, and the Steam Deck OLED excels in this area. The device features advanced battery technology that provides extended battery life, thanks to a larger capacity and efficient power management. The device also incorporates cutting-edge battery charging technology, allowing for quicker charging times and less downtime.

Steam Deck OLED

Another impressive feature of the Steam Deck OLED is its HDR OLED display. This advanced display technology offers brighter colors and deeper blacks. Combined with an increased active area of 7.4″ and an updated refresh rate of 90Hz, the result is a visually stunning gaming experience that will impress even the most critical gamers.

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The Steam Deck OLED also supports WiFi 6E, offering increased bandwidth and lower latency. This results in quicker downloads and more stable online play, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted gaming experience. This is a significant advantage for gamers who enjoy online multiplayer games or frequently download new games or updates. The second-generation handheld games console has also been designed with easy repair and modification in mind. It uses Torx type screws and features easily accessible internal components, making it a great choice for gamers who enjoy customizing their devices.

The Steam Deck OLED is powered by an updated, more efficient AMD APU, which delivers superior performance. The device’s memory has been upgraded to 6400 MT/s, improving latency and power management. The device also supports NVMe SSD, a high-speed storage technology that ensures quick and efficient data access, reducing load times and enhancing overall performance.

Valve Steam Deck OLED handheld games console

The audio technology incorporated into the Steam Deck OLED is another area where the device excels. It offers Hi-Fi audio with stereo speakers and an embedded DSP for an immersive listening experience. The device also supports the use of an onboard microphone array simultaneously with the 3.5mm headphones connector, providing flexibility and convenience for gamers.

The Steam Deck OLED version offers a range of enhanced features that make it a top choice for gamers. From its advanced OLED screen and improved ergonomics to its extended battery life and faster WiFi, this device delivers a superior gaming experience. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a dedicated gaming enthusiast, the Steam Deck OLED is a device that is certainly worth considering.

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Enjoy playing free game demos at Steam Next Fest 2023

Enjoy playing game demos at Steam Next Fest 23

The Steam Next Fest October 2023 Edition is a highly anticipated event in the gaming community, taking place from October 9th to 16th. This event is a celebration of the gaming industry’s creativity and diversity, featuring games from both first-time and veteran developers worldwide. The festival offers an exciting opportunity for gamers to enjoy free game demos, engage in livestreams and developer chats, and explore a wide variety of game genres.

The kickoff of Steam Next Fest October 2023 is set to start at 11am PDT on October 9th. This official Livestream Kickoff marks the beginning of a week-long celebration of gaming, where hundreds of free demos become available for players to try before the games are officially released. This unique feature allows gamers to experience a sneak peek of the games, providing them with a taste of what’s to come.

Steam Next Fest 23 game demos galore

One of the highlights of the event is the availability of free game demos from developers worldwide. These demos range from relaxing and calming games to action-packed adventures, catering to a wide variety of gaming preferences. The event offers a unique opportunity for gamers to explore new games, discover new favorites, and broaden their gaming horizons.

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In addition to the game demos, the event also includes livestreams and developer chats. The Broadcast Schedule provides information on these developer-hosted livestreams and chats, allowing gamers to engage directly with the creators of their favorite games. This interactive feature fosters a sense of community between developers and gamers, providing a platform for discussion, feedback, and shared enthusiasm for gaming.

The Steam Next Fest October 2023 Edition also introduces the personalized Steam Next Fest Discovery Queue. This feature allows users to find popular demos similar to games they already play, enhancing their event experience by tailoring it to their individual gaming preferences. This personalized approach to game discovery makes exploring the vast array of demos a more streamlined and enjoyable process.

Another notable feature of the event is the wishlist feature for game launch notifications. This allows gamers to keep track of the games they are interested in and receive notifications when these games are officially launched on Steam. This feature ensures that gamers won’t miss out on any of the games they discovered and enjoyed during the event.

The event also extends the most played games feature after the event concludes. The most popular games from the event will be featured for an additional week after Steam Next Fest concludes, giving gamers more time to explore these highly-rated demos. The Steam Next Fest is not just about playing games; it’s also about exploration and discovery. Users can explore the event by browsing by category or a game’s primary tags, and can search by sub-genres or specific features. This exploration feature enhances the event’s interactive nature, encouraging gamers to delve deeper into the world of gaming and discover games they might not have found otherwise.

The Steam Next Fest October 2023 Edition is a celebration of gaming, offering a unique opportunity for gamers to play free demos, engage with developers, and discover new games. With its wide variety of game genres, interactive features, and personalized discovery queue, the event promises to be an exciting and enriching experience for gamers worldwide.

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