Windows 11 Performance Issues & The Linux Migration Challenge
Windows 11 and Performance Concerns
The episode begins with a critical discussion regarding Windows 11 and its Virtualization-Based Security (VBS) feature.
• Testing by PC Gamer suggests that enabling VBS can significantly reduce gaming performance, with some titles seeing up to a 25% drop in frame rates.
• This performance penalty is linked to reduced power draw, potentially indicating that the system is limiting hardware resources for security.
• The hosts address the distinct difference between mandated security on pre-built systems versus custom-built PCs, which may remain unaffected.
The Linux Daily Driver Challenge
Linus and Luke announce a major experiment: they are switching their daily driver machines to Linux.
• This move is sparked by the growing promise of Proton and Steam Deck-driven interest in Linux gaming.
• They express concerns about software compatibility for non-Steam libraries and the need for user-friendly, stable distributions.
• ## Choosing a Distro
"I'm going to do something really bold and I'm going to let the community pick which distro I use."
• Based on community polls and expert feedback, the top contenders discussed are Pop!_OS, Linux Mint, and Arch Linux.
• The goal is to document the process, challenges, and workarounds over a series of videos to see if they can truly abandon Windows.
Hardware and Industry News
• Valve's 'Deckard' VR Headset: Evidence in SteamVR code suggests Valve is working on a standalone, wireless VR headset. Analysts speculate it could utilize custom AMD APUs similar to those found in the Steam Deck.
• Amazon's New Hardware: The hosts express strong skepticism regarding Amazon's new Astro home robot and other surveillance-focused smart home gadgets, criticizing them as being invasive and unnecessary.
• Asus/Noctua Collab: Confirmation of the highly anticipated RTX 3070 featuring Noctua cooling, praised for its unique and functional design.
• Industry Updates: The closure of Silicon Lottery is discussed as the end of an era for enthusiasts looking for overclocked, binned CPUs, noting that modern soldered IHS design has diminished the need for their delidding services.