A custom water-cooled Steam Machine, claimed to be the "world's first," has emerged from a Reddit user's ambitious modification project. Stefan Warecka, the creator behind this unique build dubbed "The Not-so-steamy Machine," detailed the process in a short video, showcasing a dramatic departure from the console's original design. The project began with what the creator described as an aggressive approach, involving an angle grinder to the Steam Machine's packaging.
The completed modification features a fan-cooled radiator attached to the rear, a bespoke CNC-machined water block, and a prominent external tubing system filled with a vibrant neon pink liquid. This aesthetic choice results in a distinctive look, reminiscent of a miniature PC with a uniquely colored coolant.
Warecka reports that this extensive cooling overhaul has led to a significant drop in APU temperatures, with reductions of 20-30 degrees Celsius observed. While a full video detailing the build is forthcoming, the creator indicated that performance benchmarks, potentially including results from demanding titles like Cyberpunk 2077, are expected to be shared soon on their YouTube channel.
This heavily modified Steam Machine stands in stark contrast to the original console's design ethos. The standard Steam Machine was noted for its quiet operation and efficient air cooling, allowing it to blend seamlessly into home entertainment setups. In contrast, Warecka's creation is characterized by its extensive external hardware, making it a far more conspicuous presence.
Despite these functional and aesthetic divergences, the project highlights a spirit of creative modification. Warecka indicated that the next phase of the build involves addressing VRM cooling, a task described as challenging due to the small size of the MOSFETs and their proximity to thermal design limits. The endeavor appears to be driven by the enjoyment of hardware hacking and pushing the boundaries of the existing hardware.