Compact Powerhouse: A New Era for Gaming PCs
A resourceful innovator has crafted a Linux gaming PC that rivals the size of a Wii, featuring a console-like interface reminiscent of the Steam Deck. This intriguing creation presents a promising alternative for gamers seeking a compact system that seamlessly connects to their television, all while being optimized for controller use.
This talented individual, known as Eta Prime, previously transformed a malfunctioning Steam Deck into a mini gaming PC. However, this latest endeavor distinguishes itself as a full-fledged PC build, boasting an Intel i7 processor and a dedicated AMD Radeon RX 6400 graphics card. The challenge of fitting such a powerful GPU into the compact Lenovo ThinkCentre M920q chassis is a testament to Eta Prime’s ingenuity. Unlike the earlier Steam Deck conversion, which relied on the original motherboard and limited performance to the AMD APU, this new build opens up a world of possibilities.
Typically, the Lenovo ThinkCentre M920q, equipped with an i7-8700T processor featuring six cores and twelve threads, operates efficiently with basic cooling. Yet, in pursuit of creating a compact gaming powerhouse, Eta Prime opted for the Radeon RX 6400. This decision necessitated drilling a side hole for enhanced airflow, perfectly aligning with the GPU’s fan. The snug fit of the GPU within the compact case is a remarkable feat; a larger unit simply wouldn’t have sufficed.
In addition to the GPU upgrade, Eta Prime enhanced the system’s RAM and storage capabilities. The desktop supports DDR4 2667MHz RAM, which may not compete with the latest speeds nearing 10000MHz, but is more than adequate for gaming needs. He successfully integrated 16GB of RAM alongside a 1TB M.2 SSD, ensuring ample space and performance for modern gaming.
With the hardware configuration complete, the next step was to install the operating system: the Bazzite distro. This alternative Steam Deck OS serves as a ready-to-game option for desktop PCs, allowing users to configure the OS according to their CPU and GPU specifications. Notably, it offers the convenience of booting directly into Steam Gaming Mode, delivering an authentic console-like gaming experience.
To put his creation to the test, Eta Prime sought to evaluate the gaming performance of his compact rig. He began by pushing the RX 6400 to its limits with a selection of games at 1440p resolution. Given that the RX 6400 is an entry-level GPU from 2022, running modern AAA titles at high resolutions posed a challenge. Therefore, he started with older games, successfully running Left 4 Dead 2 at 1440p with an impressive 120fps on very high settings.
Further testing revealed the system’s capabilities with various titles: Street Fighter 6 averaged 60fps at 1080p on medium settings with FSR frame generation, while Elden Ring performed at 1080p low settings, nearing a steady 60fps. The well-optimized Doom Eternal exceeded 100fps at 1080p, showcasing the build’s prowess. Even Cyberpunk 2077 managed to run at 1080p low settings with FSR balanced mode, averaging around 56fps, albeit constrained by its 4GB VRAM.
This build is a true sleeper, standing upright on a tabletop and belied by its unassuming appearance. Few would suspect it could handle demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077 and Doom Eternal, let alone boot into a SteamOS variant. Yet, it does so remarkably well, marking a significant achievement in the realm of compact gaming PCs.
