Bazzite is like an open-source version of the Steam OS, I mean it is based on Linux with Proton. This becomes like a reason why I should be using Linux in 2025, it works very nicely for almost any AMD GPU. It is Linux, so things should just work without anything, but this does require some setups only once though.
My GPD Win 4 is the AMD 6800U version, so it does run a bit slow especially when we have the Steam Deck. There is nothing better than the Steam Deck on low TDP like 8W. Windows is still great with the Lossless Scaling, but what is missing is the real suspend mechanism.
From PSVita to Nintendo Switch to Steam Deck, these consoles are great, but what brings a great handheld experience? A great battery life, good performance, lightweight and also, and instant play. The reason why I got the Win Max 2 and Win Mini was because I don’t need to carry them in a case, but I realise even without a case, the Windows bootup time is still not as instant as the Steam OS. The hibernation works extremely well except it is a bit slow. Over time, it keeps me away from the Win Mini.
The GPD Win 4 with a working suspend feature is almost like a Steam Deck. There are games I cannot run, but they do run, they can run a bit better. The fan noise and the heat are still there, but changing a system doesn’t mean the APU gets better, so this is as expected.
The only difference is that I can pick up my Win 4 and play at any moment. I can simply suspend the device and pick it up later. With some modifications to the cooling system, I think it can become a smaller Steam Deck with more fan noise.
Currently, I can run games using 10W to 20W, so I can play 2 to 4 hours depending on the game. The thing is the charging on Win 4 is faster maybe? Whenever I suspend my device, I can just charge it, then when I get back, it goes back to almost 100% again. In a sense, it saves my Win 4, so I may keep using it for a while.
Overall, Bazzite is great for AMD handhelds like any. The rest really depends on preference. I am fine with the fan noise, but I am not good with heat. Usually, you get better battery life and cooling the larger the handheld is, so on a mini machine like Win 4, I can only ask for a cooler machine with some fan noise.