World’s Smallest Steam Machine — 32GB, VRR

• Key Takeaways:

• A DIY “Steam Machine Micro” packs AMD Ryzen 7840U, Radeon 780M, 32GB LPDDR5 and a 1TB M.2 SSD into a sub‑6×6‑inch cube.
• Targeted for 1080p gaming with select 1440p capability, it runs at a 30W TDP to avoid thermal throttling.
• SteamOS 3.7.17 with Decky Loader, Simple Decky TDP and HDMI VRR support delivers customization and smoother visuals.

Compact Design and Personalization

The Steam Machine Micro is built to be genuinely portable: a cube under 6×6 inches, comparable to a Steam Controller in footprint. The case uses modular faceplates so users can swap designs or add LEDs later.

The small form factor is optimized for travel and tight desks without sacrificing basic connectivity. Wi‑Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 ensure reliable wireless input and online play.

High‑Performance Hardware

Core components

This build centers on the AMD Ryzen 7840U (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.1 GHz) and the integrated Radeon 780M RDNA3 GPU. Memory is 32GB LPDDR5 at 6400 MT/s and storage is a 1TB M.2 SSD.

These components deliver fast system responsiveness and strong integrated GPU performance for modern games at 1080p. With such specs, multitasking and game installs remain smooth despite the small chassis.

Thermals and Gaming Performance

Operating within a 30W TDP, the Steam Machine Micro prioritizes sustained performance over short bursts. Efficient cooling keeps temperatures in check so the CPU and GPU avoid thermal throttling during extended sessions.

Tests cited include titles such as The Witcher 3, Doom Eternal, Cyberpunk 2077 and Doom Eternal running at medium to high settings with stable frame rates. Some less demanding titles can push toward 1440p depending on settings.

Software Features and VRR

The machine runs SteamOS 3.7.17 and supports Decky Loader and Simple Decky TDP for power and performance tuning. HDMI Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) support helps reduce tearing and smooths frame delivery on compatible displays.

These software tools let users balance battery, thermals, and frame‑rate consistency without deep system knowledge.

What’s Next

Planned refinements include LED lighting, stronger case materials and potential hardware revisions to further close the gap with larger gaming systems. The project is as much a proof of concept as a practical compact gaming solution.

Watch the build

See ETA Prime’s full walkthrough for step‑by‑step assembly and benchmarks: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DB4hGRPxs0U

Media credit: ETA Prime