Meta PCs has unveiled its first gaming PC that comes with SteamOS pre-installed. This is the same operating system found in Valve’s official Steam hardware, namely the Steam Deck, and more recently the Steam Machine (and upcoming Steam Frame). With the launch of the Steam Machine last week, one of the biggest side effects is a wider SteamOS launch with version 3.8.

SteamOS 3.8 essentially acts as a more public release for the Linux-based operating system, which Valve previously only recommended using on AMD-powered handhelds such as the Legion Go or ROG Ally series. Now it is better supported on desktop gaming PCs, particularly for Intel and AMD hardware. Meta PCs’ new SteamOS desktop is called the Steamroller.

Steamroller launches on July 3 – you can pre-order one now

The Steamroller is a prebuilt gaming PC fitted with AMD’s last-gen entry-level RX 7600 graphics card, which is still great for 1080p gaming and many titles at 1440p. The recent update for FSR 4.1 Upscaling support on the 7000 series will also lend a helping hand for improving performance. These specs should offer performance that is a step above the Steam Machine.

We think upgradability is the big selling point versus the Steam Machine, as the Steamroller launches with AM5 hardware (alongside DDR5 RAM), leaving plenty of room for improvement, as AMD plans to support AM5 for years to come. Priced at $1,299, the Steamroller is $250 more than Valve’s 512GB, and $50 cheaper than the 2TB Steam Machine.

It doesn’t come with the same small form factor as the Steam Machine – and we found out last week that building your own compact DIY Steam Machine does come with compromises. Putting together a regular gaming PC to install SteamOS onto is much easier, but if you’d like a hassle-free prebuilt, then the Steamroller should draw your attention.

About the Author

Jack Goodall

At PC Guide, Jack is mostly responsible for reporting on hardware deals. He also specializes in monitors, TVs, and headsets and can be found putting his findings together in a review or best-of guide.