Valve’s Steam Machine has generated buzz since its announcement, particularly due to its memory configuration. Initially, it released only with a single 16 GiB DDR5 memory module, operating in single-channel mode. Surprisingly, there was no immediate mention of the possibility of utilizing two 8 GiB modules. The impact of switching from single-channel to dual-channel DDR5 memory on the gaming experience is thoroughly demonstrated in a benchmark video by Gamers Nexus.
Steam Machine in Dual Channel: 20% More Performance
The testing conducted by Gamers Nexus showcases the performance gains achieved by employing dual-channel memory. The results, presented in a comprehensive 24-minute video, highlight the importance of this information for users considering future upgrades, as the second SO-DIMM slot is currently unoccupied and available for enhancement.
The most noticeable advantages of dual-channel mode occur in CPU-limited scenarios, particularly in demanding titles like Baldur’s Gate 3 and Crimson Desert. In scenarios where the GPU is the bottleneck—due to the limitations of the Navi-33 GPU—the difference becomes marginal. Overall, performance improvements across various tests range from a few percentage points to approximately 20%, with the crucial 1% low frame rate heavily benefiting from the additional memory channel.
Source: Gamers Nexus
However, it is important to note that using two 8 GiB modules did not allow the test system to boot. Therefore, Gamers Nexus opted to combine the original 16 GiB module with a matching second one while limiting the selection of tested games to those under the 16 GiB threshold. Other analyses, such as those from PC World, estimate the average performance disparity between single-channel and dual-channel configurations to be around 10%. Consequently, upgrading RAM only results in significant performance gains in rare cases.
Why One Channel Bottlenecks the Phoenix-2 APU
When operating in single-channel mode, the theoretical transfer rate available to the Phoenix-2 APU drops to just half—approximately 45 GB/s instead of the expected 90 GB/s. As outlined in a teardown by PCGH, the memory also operates under JEDEC timings, sacrificing some performance for stability. When CPU bandwidth becomes saturated, frame rates and frame times decrease, and this is where dual-channel memory makes a noticeable impact.
Whether in single-channel or dual-channel mode, the overall performance of the Steam Machine is underwhelming, especially when considering its substantial price tag starting at 1,039 euros. Even with FSR upscaling 4.1, the previously advertised capability of achieving 4K/UHD at 60 FPS in most games remains a lofty ambition.
Note: The PCGH team extends their gratitude to community member Blackfirehawk from the PCGH-X forum for their insights on this topic.
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Source: Gamers Nexus
