Is Buying a Steam Machine a Lottery Ticket? Not For Now: Valve Clarifies on RAM

Valve has definitively clarified one of the most debated aspects of its Steam Machine. After initial rumors suggesting the existence of different configurations for system memory, the company has confirmed that the device is currently produced in a single variant.

In fact, there was a possibility of receiving a Steam Machine equipped with a single 16 GB RAM module or with two 8 GB modules, a difference that would have affected the memory's operation mode in single-channel and dual-channel, respectively. The total capacity would have remained the same, but the bandwidth available for the system would have changed significantly.

Valve had explained to Gamers Nexus that the uncertainty was mainly due to the availability of components. The company purchases memory modules based on the supplies available in the market and the procurement opportunities that arise month by month. In some cases, refusing a supply proposal can mean losing access to that availability.

Even the official product page only listed the presence of 16 GB of RAM, without specifying the number of installed modules. According to Valve, the two configurations would have ensured comparable speed in daily gaming experiences and would not have introduced particularly significant differences. Additionally, using a single module has a practical advantage: it leaves one slot free for a potential future memory upgrade, whereas in the case of two sticks, an upgrade would require removing at least one of the two, thus losing part of the overall capacity.

However, this issue is not entirely negligible in terms of performance. As noted by ComputerBase, tests conducted by German colleagues in recent years on the behavior of AMD platforms have shown that the transition from single-channel to dual-channel can produce average increases in the order of 11% in video games, with frame rendering times better by 12%.

In general, these are minimal differences, difficult to perceive during the experience unless in specific cases. However, upscaling and frame generation technologies could lead to a significant change in scenario. If you decide to play in 4K at 30 fps, a difference of 10% or 12% would significantly alter the gaming experience. The same discussion could extend to high refresh rate shooters.

However, at least for the moment, the picture appears defined. The Steam Machine comes with a single 16 GB RAM module, sacrificing the available bandwidth but simplifying the upgrade process. Unfortunately, we do not know how long this configuration will be maintained. Considering the current market, the situation could change within a few weeks.