– HDMI-CEC support for turning TV on/off
– Reliable wake from standby via controller
– HDR functionality
– Console-like convenience and controller focus
– High price over $1,000 may deter buyers
Is the Steam Machine a Living Room Contender?
You might wonder, if you already has a gaming PC or HTPC with a full Steam library hooked up to your TV, does the Steam Machine even make sence? This question is definately on many gamers minds as Valve’s console nears its release. Arguments for the Steam Machine often focus on its supposedly strong game compatability. According to a Reddit post by u/Whazor, that isn’t the issue with his gaming PC connected to the TV. Rather, the user points to several other aspects that could make the Steam Machine an interesting living-room alternative despite clear drawbacks even compared to a gaming rig.
Convenience Features Over Raw Power
He is not talking about the compact cube design or the user-friendliness of SteamOS, but about convenience features that a console typicaly offers in the living room. According to the Reddit user, his current gaming PC does not turn the TV on or off via HDMI-CEC. The computer also cannot be woke reliably from standby using the controller. On the couch, little things like this can quickly decide wether someone starts a game at all or simply keeps watching YouTube videos on the TV. The user also apperently has issues with HDR.
Potential Living Room Solution
As a dedicated living-room PC, the Steam Machine could eliminate all of these shortcomings. Combined with SteamOS, a controller focus, and console-like operation, it could be a more convinient solution for many in front of the TV – even if leaked benchmarks suggest that, in terms of raw performance, it cannot come close to matching a high-end gaming PC.
Pricing and Doubts
The only question is wether these advantages will be enough to convince enough gamers to buy one. According to current speculation, the Steam Machine could cost more than $1,000. On Reddit, many acknowledge the potential advantages of the living-room PC, but say they would probably still not buy a Steam Machine themselves. There could be more clarity on the price soon. Rumor has it that the Steam Machine could be unveiled on June 23.
- User reports HDMI-CEC not working on PC
- Controller wake from standby is unreliable
- HDR issues present on current setup
- Steam Machine priced over $1000 speculated