Xbox Series X, PS5 or Steam Machine: this is the most powerful console right now

Thus the Xbox Series X, PS5 and the new Steam Machine are compared: one surpasses the others.

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Valve has introduced its new Steam Machine, a mini PC that directly targets the console market with a surprising spec sheet. The idea is clear: desktop performance in a tiny format, and a thermal system that draws heavily from the Xbox Series X approach.

For many gamers, the question is inevitable: how does this new proposal stack up against current consoles? And the truth is that, at least on paper, Valve has put forward an attractive hardware offering, with a curious balance between raw power and ultra-compact design.

Technical Comparison: Steam Machine vs Xbox Series X vs PS5

Steam Machine Competes, but Xbox Series X Remains the GPU Reference

The most striking aspect of the chart is how Valve has opted for a very fast Zen 4 CPU, which puts Steam Machine above the competition in terms of frequency, although not necessarily in terms of core count. However, when the comparison shifts to the GPU, Xbox Series X maintains its lead thanks to its 52 CUs, placing it ahead of PS5 and Steam Machine in terms of raw graphics capability.

Valve compensates for this difference with a hybrid approach that combines PC and console elements: FSR, combined memory, and a compact thermal system inspired by Series X, which moves air vertically and maintains performance without issues. For a 16-centimeter cube, the proposal is more than notable.

If the choice depends on graphics power, Xbox Series X remains ahead. If you’re looking for versatility and a compact format, Steam Machine plays in its own league.