Valve unveils Steam Machine: a powerful new desktop console
Valve has done it again.
After the huge success of Steam Deck, the studio behind Half-Life and Counter-Strike is returning to hardware with Steam Machine, a new desktop console that blends PC performance with console simplicity.
Steam Machine is designed to deliver the full Steam experience in a plug-and-play format. It’s compact, powerful, upgradable, and fully connected to Valve’s ever-growing ecosystem.
Next-level performance
According to early specifications, Steam Machine aims to rival high-end gaming PCs.
It includes:
- AMD Ryzen 8000 series CPU optimized for gaming.
- Radeon RDNA 3 GPU with ray tracing and FSR 3 support.
- Up to 32 GB of DDR5 RAM.
- NVMe Gen 5 SSD storage, from 1 TB up to 4 TB.
- 4K resolution at 120 Hz for an ultra-smooth gaming experience.
The system features a modular design, allowing users to upgrade memory and storage easily without voiding the warranty — something unprecedented in the console market.
SteamOS 4: power and simplicity combined
Steam Machine launches with SteamOS 4, Valve’s latest Linux-based operating system, optimized for instant startup, seamless updates and cross-device cloud saves.
Players will be able to switch between Steam Deck, PC and Steam Machine without losing progress.
Valve continues to embrace openness: users can install Windows or other operating systems if they prefer a fully customizable setup.
Full compatibility and limitless access
Steam Machine will support the entire Steam library, from major AAA titles like Cyberpunk 2077 to indie hits like Hades.
Using Proton 9.0, it will run Windows-based games on Linux with minimal performance loss.
It also integrates with Epic Games Store, Ubisoft Connect, Battle.net and cloud platforms like GeForce Now and Xbox Cloud Gaming, making it a true all-in-one gaming platform.
Sleek design and improved controller
Steam Machine sports a matte black chassis with LED accents and silent cooling.
Valve is also introducing the Steam Controller 2, featuring:
- Improved analog sticks and triggers.
- Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.
- Configurable touchpads.
- Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity.
It remains compatible with all standard peripherals, from keyboards to third-party controllers.
Price, models and release date
Steam Machine will debut in March 2026, available in three editions:
- Steam Machine Base: 1 TB SSD / 16 GB RAM / €799
- Steam Machine Pro: 2 TB SSD / 32 GB RAM / €999
- Steam Machine Ultra: 4 TB SSD / liquid cooling / €1,299
This pricing strategy undercuts equivalent gaming PCs, offering high-end performance at a more accessible price.
The return of Valve’s console dream
Valve first experimented with this idea back in 2015 with the original Steam Machines — a project that failed due to poor standardization and limited software support.
But times have changed.
With the rise of Steam Deck, the growth of SteamOS and cross-platform gaming, the company now has the technology, audience and momentum to make it work.
Steam Machine’s mission is clear: bridge the gap between PC freedom and console convenience.
Conclusion
Steam Machine represents Valve’s boldest step yet in reshaping how we play at home.
It’s powerful, flexible and built for players who want the best of both worlds — the freedom of PC gaming and the comfort of a console.
If it lives up to expectations, Steam Machine could become the next major milestone in modern gaming.
Valve isn’t just launching a new console — it’s redefining what playing on PC means.
