Valve is preparing to launch its latest entry into the home console market, the Steam Machine, with a phased rollout beginning on Monday, June 29, 2026. Unlike traditional console releases, the Steam Machine will be distributed in batches. Customers who placed reservations will receive notifications when their unit is ready for purchase, with a 72-hour window to complete the transaction before the reservation is allocated to another customer on the waitlist. Valve aims to fulfill all reservation orders by the end of 2026. This staggered release strategy is intended to mitigate scalping by limiting purchases to one unit per household and to manage inventory effectively.
Customers interested in securing a Steam Machine are encouraged to sign up for all available units and bundles, as each has its own reservation list. While this may increase the chances of acquiring a device, it could also lead to purchasing a more expensive configuration. The deadline to sign up for initial reservations was Thursday, June 25, 2026, though late sign-ups will be placed at the end of the waitlist.
Pricing and Configurations
Valve has announced pricing for two primary Steam Machine models: a 512GB version and a 2TB version. Both models can be purchased standalone or as a bundle that includes the new Steam Controller. The prices are as follows (in GBP, EUR, USD, CAD, AUD, PLN):
- Steam Machine 512GB: 879 / 1,039 / 1,049 / 1,509 / 1,609 / 4,389
- Steam Machine 512GB with Steam Controller: 938 / 1,108 / 1,128 / 1,628 / 1,728 / 4,698
- Steam Machine 2TB: 1,149 / 1,359 / 1,349 / 1,919 / 2,109 / 5,739
- Steam Machine 2TB with Steam Controller: 1,208 / 1,428 / 1,428 / 2,038 / 2,228 / 6,048
The 2TB models come with two interchangeable faceplates: red fabric and solid walnut. Valve attributes the higher-than-expected pricing to increased costs for PC components, particularly RAM and storage. The company has opted not to subsidize the Steam Machine's price, emphasizing its commitment to the open PC ecosystem and user choice.
Design and Features
The Steam Machine is designed to bring a user's Steam library to their television, serving as an alternative to a gaming PC or the Steam Deck. Developed in-house by Valve, its compact design, comparable in size to a GameCube, allows it to fit easily into entertainment setups. The console's internal architecture was built around its fan, adhering to thermodynamic principles. A customizable LED light bar runs along the front, indicating system status and offering visual flair. The magnetic front plate is also customizable, with Valve planning to release 3D files for users to create their own designs. IMAGE1:Steam Machine photograph showing the steam machine with black faceplate on a marble circular table in front of a grey/beige wall, with a plant pot and the Steam Controller next to it, diagonal angle "Steam Machine with black faceplate"
The console runs on SteamOS 3, an Arch-based operating system, similar to the Steam Deck. However, users have the flexibility to install other operating systems and third-party applications, including other game launchers like GOG. Connectivity includes DisplayPort 1.4 and HDMI 2.0 outputs, gigabit ethernet, USB-C 3.2 Gen 2, and four USB-A ports. An integrated NVMe SSD provides storage, with a micro SD card slot for expansion.
Performance and Limitations
Internally, the Steam Machine features a semi-custom AMD Zen 4 CPU and a semi-custom AMD RDNA 3 GPU, offering a significant performance boost over the Steam Deck. Valve states it supports 4K gaming at 60fps with FSR upscaling and ray tracing. Despite its capabilities, the machine's performance is positioned as entry-level for PCs, with graphics settings potentially needing adjustments for optimal 4K performance. A notable limitation is the current inability to play games that require kernel-level anti-cheat software, such as Fortnite, Apex Legends, and GTA Online. IMAGE3:Steam Machine photograph showing the steam machine from behind on a marble circular table in front of a grey/beige wall "Rear view of the Steam Machine"
Steam Controller
The new Steam Controller, developed alongside the Steam Machine, features a design reminiscent of modern gamepads with two thumbsticks, a D-pad, face buttons, and new grip buttons. It utilizes TMR (TMR) thumbsticks for enhanced responsiveness and durability, aiming to combat issues like stick drift. The controller also incorporates HD haptics and a 'GripSense' feature that can detect how the controller is being held, allowing for dynamic input mapping. IMAGE6:The front of the new Steam Controller "New Steam Controller design."
Connectivity options for the Steam Controller include USB tethering, Bluetooth, and a proprietary wireless connection via the Steam Controller Puck, which supports up to four controllers simultaneously with low latency. A single charge is expected to provide over 35 hours of playtime. The controller is compatible with a range of devices, including PCs, the Steam Deck, and the Steam Machine itself, offering console-like features such as turning on the machine and, depending on the model, the TV.