GeForce NOW vs Maximum Settings

GeForce NOW streams PC games from the cloud to supported devices. Users connect supported game stores and subscriptions to stream games they already own; listed stores include Steam, Epic, GOG, PC Game Pass and Ubisoft Connect. More than 4,500 PC games are available to stream, and cloud downloads and updates let play start without waiting for those tasks on the device. Supported devices include Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, Linux, web browsers, Android, iPhone and iPad, handhelds, SHIELD TV, select smart TVs, Android TV, Fire TV and VR headsets. The free plan provides ad-supported access with basic cloud gaming rigs. Performance costs $9.99 a month and includes 100 hours of monthly playtime, up to 1440p and 60 FPS. Ultimate costs $19.99 a month and includes 100 hours, up to 5K and 120 FPS. Premium members can jump to the front of the queue. Ultimate also lists up to 360 FPS in demanding games and up to 90 FPS streaming to Steam Deck through its native client. Performance and Ultimate include Install-to-Play, which adds more than 2,000 games.

Maximum Settings provides a cloud gaming PC that streams games and programs to users’ devices. Customers can install games they own or buy games through stores including Steam, GOG, Itch, and Epic Games Store, and personalize software on the cloud PC. The maker says CPU, GPU, RAM, and motherboard resources are not shared with other customers while they are logged in. Streaming is advertised up to 120 FPS and 4K on compatible devices and screens, with ray tracing support. Listed platforms include Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web, and Windows; supported devices also include Apple TV, Chromebook, PS Vita, Wii U, LG webOS TV, and Raspberry Pi. The Maximizer Client is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android. Packages vary in daily usage allowances and storage; the AMD RX 7900XTX package costs C$29.95 a month and includes eight hours of daily usage, 750GB SSD storage, and 4TB mechanical storage. A trial is limited to the United States and Canada and requires a physical address and valid phone number. Maximum Settings recommends at least 10 Mbps download speed and a stable connection.