Steam Machine Price Update Confirms We'll Need To Start Saving Big Money

Combining the power of a gaming PC with the size and maneuverability of a console, the Steam Machine is set to be the next big release on the market. However, with Valve announcing a delay earlier this year, it remains to be seen when users will finally get their hands on the most powerful console of all time. Launching alongside the Steam Controller, both are expected to launch some time this year with the console-focused PC offering Steam OS, and 4K/60fps gaming performance which comes in at six times more powerful than the previously launched Steam Deck. Put simply, the Steam Machine will appeal to those who are looking for a gaming PC, but are unable to afford or make space for a full set-up.

However, when exactly the Steam Machine will be released, and most importantly, how much it will cost has still not been confirmed by Valve, leaving potential users feeling fearful over its big reveal. So far, we know that the console is 6x more powerful than the Steam Deck and will be able to run the most demanding AAA titles with ease. We also know that there will be two units sold: one at 512GB and another at 2TB with both including additional microSD storage. It can also be hooked up to both the TV and to a monitor to give you the full PC experience. So what does this mean for its cost?

Back in February, Valve revealed that a shortage of crucial components such as RAM, GPU and memory meant that the launch of the Steam Machine would have to be delayed. However, it is still adamant that players can expect a 2026 launch. As for its cost, it is still unclear, but with components such as the previously mentioned RAM and GPU increasing in price over the past year, we can expect this to make an impact on the Steam Machine's final cost. However, in November 2025, Valve software engineer Pierre-Loup Griffais said, "I think that if you build a PC from parts and get to basically the same level of performance, that's the general price window that we aim to be at" (via Skill Up).

However, in recent days, potential customers have received news on the Steam Controller which is expected to launch alongside the Steam Machine. Courtesy of a report by The Verge, the Steam Controller may cost more than originally planned due to "current conditions". That being said, these conditions do not apply to the cost of hardware, but rather, "shipping anything by sea, by air, the fuel is more expensive than it was last year.” As such, we can apply the same logic to the Steam Machine itself. Once again, it seems as though the Steam Machine is running into problems at the last second, potentially affecting both its cost and release window.