Are They All the Same?
While Steam Machines all run on the same operating system, they come in all different shapes, sizes and component models. Each of the PC manufacturers who still have Steam Machines for sale has given their systems a design that resembles their existing line of gaming PCs. Alienware’s for example has a futuristic design with the typical Alien head logo associated with its products.
Aesthetics aren’t where the main differences lie, though. Each Steam Machine, even if it’s come from the same manufacturer, will have different specifications and internal components. Valve wanted Steam Machines available to appeal to everyone, regardless of how much they wanted to spend on the system. However, in doing so, they made Steam Machines kinda complicated for a gift-buyer or someone who isn’t all the clued up on PC components.
We’ve explained this a little later on, but generally you’ll find that the more affordable systems will play indie games just fine, and maybe some older triple A titles. However, the high-priced Steam Machines will be able to run the most recent titles without as much of a hiccup. What you end up buying will depend entirely on what you want out of your system and whether or not it’s going to be your main system for gaming.
