When comparing ZOTAC Steam Machine SN970 vs MSI Trident 3, the Slant community recommends ZOTAC Steam Machine SN970 for most people. In the question“What are the best Steam Machines?” ZOTAC Steam Machine SN970 is ranked 2nd while MSI Trident 3 is ranked 6th. The most important reason people chose ZOTAC Steam Machine SN970 is:
Steam has developed their own gaming controller which comes packed with this machine and is part of the price. This is convenient for those looking for an all in one solution.
Specs
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Pros
Pro Comes with new Steam controller
Steam has developed their own gaming controller which comes packed with this machine and is part of the price. This is convenient for those looking for an all in one solution.
Pro Quiet operation
For a machine that will most likely be used in the living room, fan noise is a concern. Luckily the machine is made to be silent while being used so this is not an issue here.
Pro Very nice design
The design looks like it can actually throw some people off thinking that this small form factor PC is a next gen system. It looks great underneath your TV and is about the size of a Sega Dreamcast. In other words, it just fits in perfectly.
Pro You can upgrade your machine
This machine can be upgraded by replacing hardware such as the GPU and storage. Just be aware that it will void the warranty if you decide to upgrade during the warranty period. If you're doing so after the warranty has expired, then that sticker inside won't matter.
Pro Unique design
One of the most unique cases among the rest, this small form factor PC is a perfect 5.5 litters in length and bold architecture that is guaranteed to stick out from the rest.
Cons
Con Steam OS
The machine comes pre-installed with Steam OS as the main OS, this is based off of Debian Linux and as such Linux has less games than on Windows. This means that many AAA games will not be available on the system as they tend to be Windows only.
Con GPU cannot be upgraded
Like an Alienware Steam Machine, the Zotac's GPU cannot be upgraded. It may have a decent card inside now but a few more years down the road will make that card unattractive if you wish to buy something better to keep up with future titles.
Con No GPU amplifier at this time
Unlike Alienware, Zotac has not created a GPU amplifier for their Steam Machine so that if someone were to want to upgrade externally with a desktop GPU like an RX 580, they cannot do so.
Con Some limitations on upgrades
Unfortunately, until NVIDIA decides on making smaller versions of some of the powerful GPUs like they did with the 1070 and 1060, you can't fit something like a Titan X inside. Make sure, when you upgrade, to put a single fan based card inside.
Con There is a cheaper model that has an external power brick
If it's a deal breaker for you, there is the $990 version has an external power brick. If not, you can get the the higher up models with power supply inside.