Anyone getting a steam machine when it comes out | Mumsnet

Thinking about jumping into PC gaming but not sure whether to buy a prebuilt tower or wait for the next living-room-friendly Steam device? You’re not alone. Plenty of players who don’t chase ultra settings still want a smooth, no-fuss experience for games like Hell Let Loose and other midweight titles—without overspending or wrestling with drivers and cables.

The dilemma in a nutshell

• Recently returned a midrange gaming rig around the £1,300 mark because it just didn’t feel right.
• Already own a solid library of games on Steam and don’t need top-end performance for flight sims or ultra settings.
• Comfortable running modern titles on medium settings if it means stable frame rates and fewer hassles.
• Weighing a fresh prebuilt from a well-known vendor versus waiting for a new Steam-focused console/PC.

Why consider a Steam-style living room box

Console-like Steam machines generally aim for plug-and-play simplicity. They’re engineered to slot under a TV, run quietly, and get you into your library fast with controller-first menus. For anyone who values convenience over endless tinkering, that’s appealing—especially if most of your collection is on Steam and you prefer the sofa to a desk.

The catch: until the hardware is actually out, exact specs, pricing, and performance targets are unconfirmed. If you can wait, the reward is clear reviews and real-world benchmarks; if you can’t, you’ll be buying blind. Also consider game compatibility: while support is broad, some titles—particularly those with anti-cheat quirks—may need extra attention or verification before they feel seamless.

What a prebuilt Windows gaming PC gets you

Flexibility and control. A desktop gives you:

• Choice of storefronts and launchers, plus the easiest path for mods and peripherals.
• Upgradability—swap the GPU in a couple of years to keep pace with new releases.
• Precise tuning of settings for performance, visuals, and thermals.

Trade-offs include a bit more setup effort, potential software friction, and physical footprint/noise depending on the case and cooling. If you’re buying prebuilt, shop for strong warranties, responsive support, and a clear returns policy. Also check for practical touches like tidy cable management, a quality power supply, and ample ventilation—these can make a big difference in day-to-day use.

How much hardware do you need for games like Hell Let Loose?

If your goal is 1080p at medium settings with stable frame rates, you don’t need a monster. A modern midrange GPU and a competent 6-core CPU will do the trick for most shooters and co-op titles in that weight class. Here’s a simple target spec that balances cost and longevity:

• CPU: Current-gen 6–8 core consumer processor.
• GPU: Midrange card with upscaling support (DLSS/FSR) for extra headroom.
• Memory: 16 GB is the floor; 32 GB if you multitask or keep lots of browser tabs open.
• Storage: 1 TB NVMe SSD for fast load times and room for a handful of large installs.
• Cooling/Noise: A case with good airflow and a quiet CPU cooler—small cost, big comfort.

Given your previous £1.3k spend, you could likely come in under that price and still hit your performance goals—especially if you’re content with 1080p or 1440p on balanced presets. If you’d rather overspec for longevity, allocate more budget to the GPU and power supply.

Controller-first or desk-first?

Think about where and how you play. If you’re primarily a sofa gamer who prefers a controller and minimal fuss, a living room Steam device is a clean fit. If you rely on mouse and keyboard, use a high-refresh monitor, or love modding, a Windows tower is still the most versatile choice. You can bridge the gap either way—PCs can live in the lounge with a compact case and wireless pad; Steam devices can dock to monitors—but each path has a “native” environment where it shines.

Waiting vs buying now: a quick decision guide

• Wait for the Steam machine if:
  • You value simplicity and a console-style experience on the TV.
  • Your library is mostly on Steam and you’re fine with verified titles dictating what you play first.
  • You can hold off until reviews confirm performance, thermals, and noise.
• Buy a prebuilt PC now if:
  • You want immediate access to every launcher, mod, and peripheral.
  • You like the idea of future upgrades rather than buying a new box later.
  • You’re comfortable sizing hardware to your 1080p/medium target for value.

Practical buying tips

• Prioritize GPU and PSU quality; skimping here hurts longevity the most.
• Ask for exact component models (not just “16 GB RAM” or “750 W PSU”).
• Check return windows and restocking fees—your last smooth return was valuable.
• Consider acoustics: a quiet build feels high-end even at midrange specs.
• Keep storage flexible; it’s easy to add another NVMe or SATA SSD later.

Bottom line

If your main goal is steady 1080p performance on medium settings for games like Hell Let Loose, you don’t need to spend four figures—unless you’re buying headroom for years to come. If you prefer a streamlined, couch-friendly setup and can wait, hold for the new Steam machine and see how real-world reviews land. If you want maximum choice today—and the option to tweak, mod, and upgrade—a modest prebuilt PC tailored to midrange specs will likely make you happier for less than your previous £1.3k outlay.