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The Alienware Steam Machine is a compact 2015 living-room PC built to bring Steam games to a TV with a console-style interface and bundled Steam Controller. It can still make sense as a collectible or tinkering project, but its native SteamOS library was far smaller than Steam’s full catalog, its graphics hardware cannot be replaced, and contemporary testing found it slower than the Windows Alienware Alpha in several games. Whether it works for you depends on the specific revision and games you want to play.
What is the Alienware Steam Machine?
It is a small-form-factor gaming PC that Dell released with SteamOS rather than Windows. Engadget described it as using the Alienware Alpha’s chassis, with the operating system as the main product distinction. The roughly 203.2 × 203.2 mm footprint was intended to fit into a living-room setup. Dell’s original product specifications list HDMI output and input; the input can pass a cable-box signal through the interface. The machine also has front and rear USB ports, Ethernet and optical audio, according to Engadget’s review.
Hardware and revisions
Do not treat every Alienware Steam Machine as having identical specifications. Dell’s original configuration and the later R2 revision use different generations of components.
| Version or configuration | Documented specifications |
|---|---|
| Original Dell configuration | Intel Core i3-4170T, i5-4590T or i7-4785T options; custom Nvidia GTX graphics with 2GB GDDR5; 4GB or 8GB DDR3L; 500GB or 1TB 7,200-rpm SATA drive; HDMI in and out. Source: Dell product specifications. |
| R2 revision | Sixth-generation Intel dual-core i3, i5 or i7 options; H110 or H170 chipset; one SODIMM slot; 4GB or 8GB DDR4 configurations. Source: Dell R2 manual. |
| PC Gamer test system | 3GHz Intel Core i5, 8GB DDR3, Nvidia GeForce GTX 860M variant and 1TB 7,200-rpm hard drive. Source: PC Gamer’s review. |
The original product specification’s graphics description and the later R2 manual’s processor and memory details should not be combined into a single assumed configuration. Check the label, system information or seller’s listing for the exact revision before buying parts or judging performance.
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#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
Can it play your Steam library?
Not natively in the way a Windows gaming PC can. SteamOS was based on Linux, so games needed Linux/SteamOS compatibility to run directly. TIME reported that 1,500 of 6,500 Steam games were compatible with SteamOS in 2015; Engadget likewise described about 1,500 Linux-compatible titles out of more than 6,000 games on Steam at the time. Those are historical catalog counts, not current compatibility totals. TIME’s review and Engadget’s review both noted the gap, particularly for major multiplatform releases.
TIME cited Fallout 4, Mortal Kombat X and The Witcher 3 as games that required streaming from another PC rather than running directly on the Steam Machine. If a game is not supported by the installed operating system, owning it on Steam alone does not make it playable natively on this device.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Streaming games from a Windows PC
Steam In-Home Streaming could send a game running on a Windows PC on the same network to the Steam Machine. That made the box useful as a TV endpoint for an existing gaming computer, but it depended on that second PC and a reliable network. TIME found wireless streaming unstable during its review and recommended a wired connection. Engadget also described streaming as a way to fill gaps in the Linux game catalog.
Performance: Steam Machine vs. Alienware Alpha
PC Gamer tested a Steam Machine with a 3GHz Core i5, 8GB DDR3 and GTX 860M variant against a Windows Alienware Alpha at 1080p. The Alpha led in three of the four reported tests, with nearly identical results in Half-Life 2: Lost Coast. These are results for the review systems and settings, not a guarantee for every configuration or game.
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
| Game, 1080p | Windows Alienware Alpha | Alienware Steam Machine | Steam Machine difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| BioShock Infinite | 69.5 fps | 48.1 fps | 30.8% lower |
| The Talos Principle | 49.3 fps | 37.8 fps | 23.3% lower |
| Half-Life 2: Lost Coast | 235.9 fps | 231 fps | 2.1% lower |
| Shadow of Mordor | 50.6 fps | 35.4 fps | 30.1% lower |
PC Gamer gave the Steam Machine 55/100 in its 2016 review and concluded: “If you’re interested in this box, you really should get the Alienware Alpha with Windows instead.” The comparison reflects those specific tested machines; a buyer considering a used unit should identify its hardware and test the games they care about.
Can you upgrade the Alienware Steam Machine?
Memory, storage and processor upgrades are documented, but the graphics processor is integrated into the motherboard and is not replaceable as a conventional graphics card. That distinction matters: additional memory or a drive can improve capacity and responsiveness, but cannot lift the machine beyond its fixed graphics capability. TIME described those upgrade limits in its 2015 review.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
A SATA SSD may be a practical storage replacement path, but the exact drive format and fit should be verified for the specific revision and chassis before purchase. The R2 has one SODIMM slot, per Dell’s R2 manual; do not assume its memory arrangement applies to the original model.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Living-room controls and everyday use
The included Steam Controller uses a touchpad for mouse-like input. TIME found the approach workable, but slower than a joystick for quick first-person-shooter turns, and noted a learning curve. It may suit menu-heavy games or a player willing to adjust, but those accustomed to a conventional gamepad should try it before relying on it.
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Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
There are also practical media and chat limitations. PC Gamer reported no native Netflix, Hulu or YouTube apps and noted the browser could serve as a workaround. The controller has no headphone jack, and the machine has no analog microphone port, so online voice chat requires a USB headset, according to PC Gamer.
Original prices and what they mean now
These figures describe historical launch and review prices, not current used-market value or availability.
| Price | Configuration or context | Source and date |
|---|---|---|
| $449 | Original model starting price when shipping began. | PCWorld, 2015 |
| $649.99 | TIME’s reviewed Core i5 configuration with 8GB memory, 1TB 7,200-rpm hard drive and Nvidia graphics with 2GB RAM. | TIME, 2015 |
| $749 | 2016 refresh starting configuration: Skylake Core i5, GTX 960, 8GB DDR4 and 500GB drive. | PCWorld, 2016 |
| $899 | 2016 refresh configuration with Core i7, GTX 960, 8GB DDR4 and 1TB drive. | PCWorld, 2016 |
The later refresh raised graphics capability and updated the processor and memory, but it did not change the central software constraint: native play still depended on SteamOS compatibility. Old list prices are useful for understanding the product’s original positioning, not for deciding whether a particular secondhand unit is a good deal.
Who should consider one?
- Potential fit: someone who wants a compact legacy SteamOS system, values the original living-room setup, or already owns a Windows PC and expects to stream games over Ethernet.
- Poor fit: someone expecting the full Windows Steam catalog to run natively, seeking modern game performance, or wanting a future graphics upgrade.
- Before buying used: verify the revision and CPU, memory, storage and GPU; confirm the specific games’ operating-system support; and check the machine’s condition, included controller and current local price.
Ars Technica’s Kyle Orland observed that SteamOS had attracted hundreds of indie games but fewer big-budget releases, and argued that without major exclusives or a performance advantage, average consumers had little reason to choose it over Windows. That explains why the Steam Machine’s best case was narrow: it offered a console-like interface around a PC game ecosystem whose most attractive breadth still depended on Windows support or streaming. Ars Technica’s SteamOS review.
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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
