Upgrading the Solid State Drive (SSD) in a Valve Steam Machine is a straightforward process, even with current SSD prices. For those looking to expand their storage, purchasing a smaller capacity Steam Machine and a larger SSD can be more cost-effective than buying a pre-configured high-capacity model, especially if the original drive can be resold.

The necessary tools for this upgrade are minimal: a replacement SSD (compatible with PCIe 4.0 or 3.0, in 2230 or 2280 form factors), a Torx T8 or T9 screwdriver, and a USB drive prepped with the SteamOS recovery image. A pair of grippy pliers may also be helpful for installing longer 2280 SSDs, though not strictly required.

Replacing the SSD

Begin by loosening the two captive screws on the back panel of the Steam Machine using your screwdriver. Once loose, the back panel can be lifted off, exposing the cooling fan. Remove the two silver screws securing the fan assembly; these screws are not captive and should be kept safe.

Next, turn the Steam Machine upside down and remove the four screws located in the base, which also hold the rubber feet in place. Store these screws safely. After removing the necessary screws, the main internal assembly, containing the core components, can be carefully slid out of the case. Removing the main internal assembly from the Steam Machine.

On the underside of the main assembly, locate the stock SSD. Remove the single fastening screw that holds it in place. Loosening the fastening screw on the Steam Machine's stock SSD.

Carefully slide the existing SSD out of its M.2 slot. If you are installing a longer 2280 SSD, you will need to relocate the screw receptacle stud to the corresponding hole further down the slot. This stud can sometimes be tightly screwed in and may require pliers.

Insert the new SSD into the M.2 slot and secure it with the fastening screw. The physical installation is now complete. To reassemble, slide the internal assembly back into the case, replace the rubber feet screws, then refit the fan assembly screws. Finally, reattach the back panel and tighten the captive screws. Installing a new 2280 SSD in the Steam Machine.

With the hardware upgrade complete, the Steam Machine will require an operating system. Valve provides a guide for creating and using SteamOS installation media on a USB drive.