We Built a Budget SteamOS Gaming PC

Summary

This video reviews a compact, budget-friendly gaming PC, highlighting its performance in games like Cyberpunk 2077, Horizon Zero Dawn, and Elden Ring. With a $550 price tag, it delivers solid FPS at 1080p and is ideal for living room setups. The reviewer notes that while the GPU runs hot, it's manageable with proper ventilation. Steam OS runs well, though Windows is recommended for broader game compatibility. Overall, it's a great choice for budget-conscious gamers looking for a versatile, small-form-factor PC.

Takeaways

• 😀 Solid gaming performance: The system runs *Cyberpunk 2077* at 100 FPS on 1080p with medium-high settings, providing a good gaming experience.
• 🔥 High GPU temperatures: During an hour-long stress test, the GPU reached high 80s Celsius, but did not hit thermal throttle levels.
• 💡 Thermal management advice: It's recommended to place the system in a well-ventilated area or add a fan for better cooling.
• 🎮 Game testing: The system was also tested with *Horizon Zero Dawn* (85 FPS average at 1080p medium) and *Elden Ring* (locked 60 FPS at 1080p high).
• 🚫 Compatibility issue with certain games: Titles with anti-cheat systems like *Fortnite* and *Warzone* do not work on Linux, limiting some game options.
• 💻 OS flexibility: The PC works with Steam OS and *Basi* (a stable Linux version), but Windows could also be installed for better compatibility.
• 💰 Budget-friendly price: At $550, the PC is considered a great value for budget-conscious gamers seeking solid performance.
• 🖥️ Compact build with portability: The PC is small, with the added bonus of a handle for easy transport, making it ideal for a living room setup.
• 🌡️ Importance of system placement: For optimal cooling, the system should not be suffocated in a cramped space like an entertainment center.
• 🔧 Build suggestions: A repaste might help with cooling, especially given the age of the generation it’s from, as it could improve thermal performance.
• 🛠️ Gaming PC versatility: This system can handle various OS options, and you can use the links provided to replicate the build with affiliate support.

Q & A

What was the performance of the system while running Cyberpunk 2077?

The system performed well, running Cyberpunk 2077 at 1080p with medium-high presets and FSR enabled, achieving around 100 FPS, which is considered a solid frame rate for gaming at that resolution.

What are the key factors that contribute to the system's temperatures while gaming?

The compact size of the case and the powerful GPU contribute to the system running hot. During extended gameplay sessions, the GPU temperature can reach the high 80s, but it does not enter thermal throttle territory. Adequate ventilation and cooling solutions are essential to manage the heat.

What can be done to improve cooling in this PC setup?

To improve cooling, the PC should be placed in a well-ventilated area, and users may want to remove mesh filters to increase airflow. Adding a small fan or repasting the GPU might also help lower temperatures.

How does the performance compare to a higher-end gaming setup?

While the PC performs well for its price, with 100 FPS in Cyberpunk and good performance in other games like Horizon Zero Dawn and Elden Ring, it is not designed to replace a full desktop gaming system. It is better suited for budget-conscious gamers or those looking for a compact system for a living room setup.

What benchmarks were tested on the system, and what were the results?

The system was tested with Horizon Zero Dawn Remaster at 1080p medium settings, achieving an average of 85 FPS with a 1% low of 56 FPS. Elden Ring ran at 1080p high settings, locking in 60 FPS.

Is this PC suitable for games that use anti-cheat software like Fortnite and Warzone?

No, games like Fortnite and Warzone that use anti-cheat software are not compatible with Linux, which limits the system’s ability to run these games smoothly. However, it works well with other titles that do not require such software.

What operating systems are recommended for this mini PC?

SteamOS is recommended for a more stable experience, especially if using the system as a living room PC. Alternatively, Windows can be installed, but SteamOS tends to be more stable for this specific build.

What is the price of the mini PC and is it considered budget-friendly?

The mini PC is priced at approximately $500, making it a budget-friendly option for gamers who want good performance without spending too much. It offers good FPS potential for a low price.

How does this PC perform for living room gaming setups?

This PC is well-suited for living room gaming, especially if paired with a high-refresh-rate 1080p or 1440p TV. It’s compact, budget-friendly, and offers decent performance for casual gaming in a living room environment.

What should be considered when setting up this PC in a small entertainment center?

If placing the PC in a small entertainment center, it’s crucial to ensure proper ventilation. The system may overheat in confined spaces, so it’s important to avoid suffocating airflow by removing mesh filters and ensuring the case has adequate air intake.