Steam Link: Bridging the Gap Between PC and Living Room Gaming
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The console vs. PC debate is a long-standing one, with arguments for both sides continuing to this day. While consoles like the PS4, Xbox One, and Wii U offer a comfortable living room experience, PCs remain a powerhouse for gaming. Many argue that PCs are better suited for the office, while consoles reign supreme in the living room. However, Valve, with its Steam platform and the introduction of the Steam Link, is challenging this notion. This device aims to bring the vast library and power of PC gaming into the comfort of your living room. But how does it work, and does it truly offer a viable alternative to traditional consoles? Let’s explore the Steam Link and its potential to bridge the gap between PC and living room gaming.
Steam Link packaging
The Steam Link’s packaging is minimalistic, reflecting Valve’s straightforward approach. The box provides a clear image of the device and outlines key features.
Steam Link packaging back
The back and bottom of the box detail the included accessories and explain the device’s functionality, highlighting its ability to stream games from a PC via wireless or wired LAN connection.
Steam Link: Unboxing and First Impressions
Opening the box reveals two compartments: one containing the Steam Link itself and the other housing a comprehensive set of accessories. Valve includes three different power plugs (including two-prong and three-prong options) along with an adapter, ensuring compatibility with various international power standards. Also included are an HDMI 2.0 cable, an Ethernet cable, and two instruction manuals.
Steam Link and accessories
The Steam Link itself is compact and sleek, slightly larger than a portable hard drive, with a modern design featuring rounded corners. While the Steam logo lacks backlighting, the device’s minimalist aesthetic is appealing. The back panel houses an Ethernet port, an HDMI 2.0 port, and three USB 2.0 ports.
How Does the Steam Link Work?
It’s important to understand that the Steam Link isn’t a console in the traditional sense. It’s a streaming device designed to receive and display game signals from Steam-compatible devices on your home network, including PCs and Steam Machines. This allows you to stream your PC games from your office to your living room, enjoying them on a larger screen and from the comfort of your couch.
Steam Link back panel
Technical Specifications and Compatibility
The Steam Link supports resolutions up to 1080p at 60 FPS, making it compatible with most modern Full HD televisions via the included HDMI 2.0 cable. Wired connections utilize a 100Mbit/s Ethernet standard, while wireless connections support 802.11ac. The Steam Controller connects to the Link via Bluetooth 4.0, but compatibility extends to other controllers as well, including Xbox 360, Xbox One, Logitech F170, and even traditional keyboard and mouse setups. The Steam Link runs SteamOS, providing a familiar Big Picture interface for navigating your game library.
Bringing PC Gaming to the Living Room
Steam Link front view
With a price point of around $50, the Steam Link offers PC gamers a convenient and affordable way to enjoy their Steam libraries in the living room without the hassle of moving their entire desktop setup. This addresses the growing demand for living room gaming experiences. While the future of Steam Machines remains uncertain, the Steam Link presents a compelling solution for bringing the power of PC gaming to a wider audience. It’s a significant step towards bridging the gap between PC and console gaming, offering a viable alternative to traditional consoles and answering the question of whether PCs are losing ground to consoles.
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