Playnix: Boutique Linux PC released with better gaming performance than Valve Steam Machine
The Steam Machine is still without an official release date. Presented over six months ago, Valve is yet to confirm how much the return of its small form factor (SFF) gaming computer will cost. In part, the latter may be out of Valve’s control.
Nonetheless, the developer of EmuDeck, a popular retro emulator tool, is selling an alternative. For context, we have been here before with the EmuDeck Machines. While that project never got off the ground after debuting in August 2024, its spiritual successor is available to order globally with shipments from Spain.
Initially, Playnix was available on a limited basis. However, that is no longer the case, although the Playnix website stresses that stock is limited. Setting that aside, the Playnix features the following hardware within a 320 x 247 x 64 mm 3D-printed shell:
- AMD Ryzen 5 - 6 CPU cores, 65 W TDP
- AMD Radeon RX 9060 XT 16GB
- 16 GB DDR4-3600 RAM single-channel
- 512 GB M.2 SSD with spare M.2 2280 slot
- 600 W PSU
The Playnix runs PlaynixOS, an Arch-based Linux distribution. In other words, the mini-PC shoots straight for the Steam Machine, with an 8BitDo Ultimate 2 Wireless (curr. $59.99 on Amazon) controller included in its $1,139 price. Ultimately, a PC builder could create an alternative for themselves.
However, the Playnix could be a solid solution for those waiting on the Steam Machine. The Playnix should be more powerful than Valve’s mini-PC too, without sacrificing future upgradeability options. Please see Retro Game Corps video below for a first impression of how the device shapes up.
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