Steam Machine release date speculation, specs and latest news

Valve recently unveiled a range of new hardware, including a redesigned Steam Machine. We’ve gathered all the details we know about it, covering expected release dates, specifications, and the latest updates.

We’ll briefly discuss how the Steam Machine relates to the broader world of PCs and consoles, though anyone familiar with the Steam Deck already understands the situation.

We previously discussed the potential cost of the Steam Machine, and that’s become an even bigger issue now that RAM prices are going up – we’ll explain more about that shortly.

But without further ado, let’s steam on for all things Steam machine!

When is the Steam Machine release date?

Valve stated that it hopes to release the Steam Machine in “early 2026”.

That timeframe is a bit unclear, but we can generally understand it to mean around April 2026.

The launch date might be delayed because of a shortage of RAM. This is caused by the high demand from AI data centers, which are buying up the DRAM and NAND chips used in computer memory and storage, driving up prices significantly.

So, chip makers are doing really well right now, and it’s changing things. I’ve noticed some, like Micron, are deciding to stop selling to us regular gamers and focus on bigger clients – businesses and stuff. It’s a bummer, but they’re clearly seeing more profit in that direction.

Considering Valve’s stated goal of offering a competitively priced device similar to basic PCs, the company might need to reconsider its strategy as it assesses the current market.

Will it weather the storm, or ride it out and fall back on Steam revenue to absorb the costs?

As soon as we know more, we will update you as soon as possible!

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Can I pre-order the Steam Machine?

No, you cannot pre-order the Steam machine at this time.

I’ve already added it to my Steam wishlist! That way, I’ll get a notification as soon as it’s released and I can buy it right away.

It’s also unclear if Valve will use a reservation system like they did with the initial Steam Deck release.

This system required interested buyers to join a waiting list with a small deposit. When the item became available, they had a limited time to pay the remaining balance.

Valve has launched hardware before, so they might be able to produce enough units this time for a wider release.

Is the Steam Machine a PC or console?

The Steam Machine is a PC-hybrid console.

This device offers a similar experience to the Steam Deck, but without the ability to play on the go or the built-in screen. Like the Steam Deck, it uses SteamOS, which is based on Linux and starts with a simple, console-like interface. However, you can easily switch to a more traditional desktop mode if you prefer.

Okay, so it’s a little more complicated to set up than just plugging into a regular console, but honestly, it’s SO worth it. It lets me play tons of older PC games – and they’re often really cheap! I can go back decades and rediscover classics, which is amazing.

I love that with the desktop mode, it’s like having a full computer right there! It means I can sideload apps or even install other app stores if I want – basically, anything goes, which is awesome.

If you’re comfortable using only Steam, you can think of it similarly to a gaming console, particularly since the Steam Machine includes a controller.

The Steam machine is designed to be versatile – you can comfortably use it connected to your TV in the living room, or as a traditional PC with a mouse and keyboard on your desk.

Steam Machine specs explained

Valve estimates the Steam Machine is more than six times as powerful as the Steam Deck. Based on its specifications, the Steam Machine’s performance appears to be between the Xbox Series S and PlayStation 5, leaning closer to the power of the PlayStation 5.

However, the Steam Machine differs from consoles in that it doesn’t combine all its memory into one pool. Instead, it has 16GB of regular system memory and a separate 8GB dedicated to graphics.

There’s a key difference here: while many new, high-end PC games – particularly those built with Unreal Engine 5 – require a lot of video memory (8GB or more) to handle detailed graphics, consoles are more flexible. Even though consoles have less total memory, they can prioritize allocating more of it to video memory if needed, while dedicating less to running the game’s core programming.

The Steam Machine will run esports games like Counter-Strike 2 without any problems, but demanding games like Black Myth: Wukong will likely need their graphics settings turned down for a smooth experience.

As for those specs, check them out below:

Steam Machine specs

CPU – Semi-custom AMD Zen 4 6C / 12T, up to 4.8 GHz, 30W TDP
GPU – Semi-Custom AMD RDNA3 28CUs, 2.45GHz max sustained clock, 110W TDP
RAM – 16GB DDR5 + 8GB GDDR6 VRAM
Power – Internal power supply, AC power 110-240V
Storage – 512GB or 2TB NVMe SSD (both models include a high-speed microSD card slot)

Does the Steam Machine come with a controller?

Yes, the Steam machine comes with a bundled Steam Controller.

The Steam Controller is similar to the Steam Deck, except it doesn’t have a built-in screen. It includes standard features like triggers, bumpers, a D-pad, analog sticks, and the ABXY buttons. What sets it apart are the four buttons on the back and the two trackpads.

The controller includes a gyroscope, allowing for precise control similar to using a mouse, and eliminating the need for the trackpads.

Trackpads allow you to easily play PC games like strategy titles in your living room, removing the need for a separate mouse and keyboard.

The trackpads can also be used to create additional shortcuts, akin to a weapon wheel in a game.

If you enjoy the Steam Controller and want to use it with a more powerful computer, you can buy it on its own.

Authors

Cole LukeFreelance Writer

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2026-01-08 19:12