When comparing Alienware Alpha vs Material.net Steam Machine, the Slant community recommends Alienware Alpha for most people. In the question“What are the best Steam Machines?” Alienware Alpha is ranked 4th while Material.net Steam Machine is ranked 13th. The most important reason people chose Alienware Alpha is:
This machine launched before the Steam OS was released which means it is built on the Windows OS. This means all of the games available for Windows are able to be played on the machine. With Windows having a much larger amount of games available over Linux, which is what Steam OS is based on.
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Pros
Pro Windows OS
This machine launched before the Steam OS was released which means it is built on the Windows OS. This means all of the games available for Windows are able to be played on the machine. With Windows having a much larger amount of games available over Linux, which is what Steam OS is based on.
Pro The R2 model
The Alpha had undergone a revision which was later called the R2. This version opened up the possibility to allow you to use Alienware's official Amplifier add on on that could handle desktop quality GPUs, like a GTX 1060, as a way of upgrading what you currently had in your system. It can breath more life into your Alpha. For some odd reason, it feels like when the Sega Genesis had undergone the CD and 32X add on in order to extend it's lifespan. But, with the Amplifier, it isn't attaching itself on top of or underneath the system like the Genesis add ons so it makes for a cleaner look.
Pro There is a price range meter
Some companies do not have this but Material.net actually has a meter that allows you to set it at the range you want to spend for your Steam Machine. Keep in mind they are using the € so it will cost more here in the States.
Pro Simple design
It's not too distracting or in your face if you like simpler designs that still can contain some serious power.
Pro Upgradable
You can have your choices in various upgrades for the CPU, GPU, Storage, operating system, and memory.
Cons
Con The R1 model
If you purchased the R1 model you're pretty much screwed in terms of upgrading, or amplifying, the GPU since this machine does not have an amplifier port for you to use the Alienware amplifier and be able to use something like a GTX 1080 or 1070 inside. There is one method that had been shared on youtube but it is a longer process than simply buying the R2 model and then buying the GPU of your choice and their Amplifier.
Con Some UI problems with the controller
Being that this is a Windows OS machine there are some parts of the UI such as the log in screen which are not optimal for controller support. It can be difficult to type in ones password when logging in.
Con Simple design
Even if it has a non distracting design, it still is pretty boring to look at and wouldn't fit well with your other consoles or even be something you'd really be proud to call your PC.
Con Not in the US
This particular Steam Machine can be bought from Material.net's site but they are located in France. You will have to deal with some hefty shipping fees to get it over here (if they even do international shipping).