Steam Link and Steam Controller. Should I buy?

[jgustin7b]

Not sure if you guys noticed, but until Jan. 4, there is a decent sale on the link and the controller on the steam website (and desktop app I guess). I do enjoy playing games on the couch every now and then, but what do you guys think? Is the controller comfortable? Does the link perform just as well as a mid-tier gaming pc?

 

[Barty1884]

I've used one (briefly). The controller is "ok", although far from the most comfortable.

As for comparisons to a mid-tier Gaming PC - it really depends on the strength/stability of your internet connection.
AFAIK, they haven't implemented streaming from a central server (like the nVidia Shield)..... you're still only streaming local content from your "main" PC?

Looks like the Link is still ~$30 and doesn't include the controller?

For the money ($30 + $95 for the controller.....or $50 for simply "a.n.other" controller) $80-$125 range, I wouldn't recommend it.

I'd be much more inclined to look to an Nvidia Shield (assuming you have an Nvidia GPU in your mail rig).
https://www.amazon.com/NVIDIA-SHIELD-Streaming-Player-Controller/dp/B01N1NT9Y6/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1514915663&sr=8-4&keywords=nvidia+shield

While it's more money ($200), you get a much better (IMO) controller, substantially more functionality*, much, much more "raw" power and can stream a solid amount of titles you don't already own, by going the monthly subscription route.

*Youtube, Browsing, "Android TV" in general, Kodi, PlayStore etc.

 

[jgustin7b]

Well, as a package deal, it’s about 35 dollars with the sale. What do you think then?

 

[Barty1884]

Is it really that cheap? I'm in Canada, so I keep getting re-routed when I try to look further.

For $35 including the controller; I guess there's really no harm in picking one up.
You're still *only* able to stream local content though..... So:

If you're looking at it as a value proposition being able to play the same games you currently have, from your sofa AND your network is strong AND you're not looking to play a lot of titles where a slight bit of lag could be extremely problematic, then $35 is a pretty solid deal.

If you're playing things like CS:GO competitively, or were hoping for access to more titles you didn't already own; then it's likely to prove pointless.

 

[jgustin7b]

I’ve always been more of a casual gamer, and when playing RL, I’m practically always in casual mode. My internet is relatively strong and I can tether with Ethernet if necessary. Thanks for the advice.