this post was submitted on 30 Sep 2026
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Steam Hardware

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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 1 week ago by cloudless@piefed.social 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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[–] Waterpumpee@lemmus.org 2 points 1 week ago (1 children)

I quit GFN when they added the play time limits. Really gave me anxiety. Plus they tend to add games i could play with my framework laptop anyway. Was a good service until then.

If you are fine with GFN's service, my advice would be to stick to it. I think you cant get away cheaper. If you are OK with their limitations. Also you still own your games and build a library with GFN.

Speaking of owning. You don't own Steam games. You purchase a license to access them.

[–] cloudless@piefed.social 1 points 1 week ago

Yeah I felt the same anxiety at first, but then I realised that with my Xbox and Switch, I don’t really need that many hours with GFN. With my busy life sometimes I even have my month of GFN completely unused.

I understand about the lack of software ownership, I was referring to the ownership of hardware vs GFN subscription.