Cheapest HDMI 2.1 Steam Link Device for 4k120hz Streaming

CtrlAltSpoods on 20/11/2023 - 14:54

Hi all,

I'm currently searching for a cheap device capable of streaming 4k120hz games from my PC to my TV.
I used to be able to do this in the bedroom, however Steam Link on Samsung TV's will be retired in 10 days and I will need an alternative. (Frustratingly)

Can anyone recommend me a cheap device capable of doing this? Be it a NUC/PC-on-a-stick

I've had a look at the Nvidia Shield Pro's, but it is my understanding these devices cannot stream 120hz as they lack the newer HDMI technology required.
My TV does support 4k120hz so I'd like to be able to use it, just without having to move my entire pc around the house. (We have gigabit ethernet to the rooms I'd be using it in)

Not looking to put a large PC box anywhere, would like to keep it small enough to fit into my entertainment unit.

Cheers,
Spoods

Electrical & Electronics Media Player

Comments

  • Graduate on 20/11/2023 - 16:49
    +1

    Sorry this isn't an answer to your question for the right endpoint hardware. For software, I want to mention again Sunshine + Moonlight, as a matured alternative to Steam Link.

    However, as great and capable as streaming can be, simply less hassle having a run of cables = always connected, and no encoding stress on GPU (maybe a breeze for some high-end cards).

    Suggestion in detail:
    (Test latency before wall installation.)

    Optical Fiber HDMI (or have-doubts HDMI over CAT) + VirtualHere's complete USB sharing solution & replacement firmware for GL.iNet's GL-AR300M16 (with External Antennas because why not, but you have Ethernet here and there).

  • skittlebrau on 20/11/2023 - 17:14
    +1

    Intel NUC12 or similar chipset would be the go I think. The NUC12 (and possibly NUC11? You'd need to check that) can do 4K 120Hz with a USB-C to HDMI cable - not through the native HDMI port.

    https://community.intel.com/t5/Intel-NUCs/NUC-12-Sabrent-DA-…

    I'm setting up my NUC12 this week, so I could check on this if you like.

    If doing an optical HDMI cable run from the PC to the TV isn't an option, perhaps you might consider HDBaseT? Although you'd be limited to 1080p 120Hz or 4K 60Hz due to bandwidth limitations, you end up with much less lag than Steam or Moonlight streaming and it truly feels native. Depending on your screen viewing distance, you'd be surprised how little difference in practice that 4K makes when you're sitting on the couch a few metres back. Plus you have the added benefit of every single game being easy to run. HDBaseT would mean you have a converter box on either end which you plug in your peripherals to.

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