A mystery mini PC is trying something that most compact desktops still avoid: putting a console-style gaming experience at the center of the system. The unbranded Piston V, recently showcased by ETA Prime, ships with both Windows and Bazzite, giving users the option to switch between a traditional desktop environment and a SteamOS-like gaming interface.
The Piston V could be an interesting option for users building a small living-room gaming system. Bazzite is particularly relevant here because its gaming-focused interface can make the mini PC feel closer to a console when connected to a TV. At the same time, Windows remains available for users who need a conventional desktop environment.
Under the hood, the Piston V uses AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 365 processor with 10 cores and 20 threads. The chip is paired with a Radeon 880M integrated GPU based on AMD’s RDNA 3.5 architecture. The system also includes 32GB of DDR5-5600 memory and a 1TB M.2 SSD.
The graphics configuration is worth mentioning because the Piston V has reportedly been associated with the Radeon 890M in some claims. At the same time, the hardware shown by ETA Prime uses the Radeon 880M. The system runs at a 54W TDP, giving the CPU and integrated GPU more power than many low-wattage mini PCs.
Gaming performance appears suitable for 1080p gaming with reduced graphics settings. Technologies such as AMD FSR can also help improve frame rates in supported games. While the Radeon 880M cannot compete with a dedicated desktop graphics card, the combination of Zen 5 CPU cores, RDNA 3.5 graphics, and higher power limits gives the Piston V enough performance for a compact gaming setup.
The unusual hardware continues on the front of the chassis, where the Piston V has a circular built-in display. It can show system information, static images, media controls, and other content. The Linux installation also includes a performance monitor, allowing users to keep an eye on system data without switching away from their game.
Connectivity includes two USB Type-A ports and a 3.5mm audio jack on the side. The rear panel adds two RJ45 Ethernet ports, HDMI, USB Type-C, and a DC power connector. The system also has tool-less covers that provide access to the memory and storage, which should make upgrades easier.
The biggest unknown is the Piston V itself. Its manufacturer has not been identified, and ETA Prime did not disassemble the machine to determine its origin. That also means there is currently no confirmed price or information about when the system will be available to buy.
- AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 with 10 cores and 20 threads
- Radeon 880M integrated graphics with RDNA 3.5 architecture
- 32GB DDR5-5600 memory
- 1TB M.2 SSD
- 54W power configuration
- Windows and Bazzite dual-boot support
- Circular front display for system information and media controls
- Designed with 1080p gaming in mind
- Tool-less access to RAM and storage
- Pricing and availability are currently unknown
For now, the Piston V remains an unusual mini PC with a clear gaming focus. Its combination of Bazzite, Windows, AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 365, Radeon 880M graphics, and a built-in circular display could make it an interesting living-room PC if the hardware eventually becomes widely available.
