Valve's Steam Machine promises the best of both worlds, but it's clear that high resolution and smooth frame rates don't always play nicely together. My tests on a 55-inch OLED TV showed that while FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR) can help hit those coveted 60 fps at 4K, the image quality isn’t always as crisp as one might hope.

On a 27-inch desktop monitor, things were more straightforward. With games like Lego Batman: Legends of the Dark Knight, I could enjoy solid frame rates even with high graphics settings. However, Crimson Desert, despite its demanding reputation, struggled to keep up, especially during cutscenes.

The overall conclusion? Performance gains come at a cost. The Steam Machine is a worthy console for those who prioritize native 4K resolution, but it's not without its limitations. For gamers on the lookout for high-quality visuals and consistent performance, it might be worth considering other options first.