Steam Machine Nears Launch: Online Benchmarks Reveal Comparison to Steam Deck

New benchmark tests for the Steam Machine, also known by its code name Valve Fremont, have surfaced on Geekbench. These benchmarks provide a glimpse into the capabilities of this upcoming mini PC, which Valve has officially scheduled for launch in summer 2023. This timing aligns with the anticipated release of the Steam Frame, a new accessory for gamers.
Steam Machine Benchmarks Overview
The recent benchmarks appeared on June 15 and utilized Geekbench’s latest version 6.7.1 for Linux. The results are noteworthy, particularly when compared to the Steam Deck, which was tested using the older Geekbench version 6.2.2. Early indications suggest that this mini PC is designed to significantly outperform its predecessor.
Specifications of the Steam Machine
The Steam Machine is powered by an AMD Custom CPU 1772, featuring a robust architecture with a 6-core, 12-thread setup. This processor operates at a clock speed of up to 4.8GHz and is complemented by 16GB of RAM. Additionally, it incorporates a dedicated RDNA 3 GPU, enhancing its gaming performance further.
Benchmark Comparison
| Device | Single-Core Score | Multi-Core Score |
|---|---|---|
| Steam Machine (Test 1) | 2,334 | 7,316 |
| Steam Machine (Test 2) | 2,282 | 7,392 |
| Steam Deck | 1,353 | 4,573 |
These scores indicate a significant performance boost compared to the Steam Deck, which features a 4-core, 8-thread design with a maximum clock speed of 2.8GHz. The Steam Deck’s architecture includes a single System-on-Chip (SoC) combining Zen 2 chip technology with RDNA 2 graphics, emphasizing its compactness for handheld gaming.
Implications of the Benchmark Results
While these pre-release benchmark scores are promising, they should be interpreted cautiously. Final performance metrics will only become apparent through comprehensive reviews once the Steam Machine launches. Still, the current findings suggest a marked improvement, positioning the Steam Machine as a formidable competitor in the mini PC gaming market.

