Tap any question to see the answer.
What is the Steam Machine?+
A small game console made by Valve that plugs into your TV. It is a PC underneath, so it plays the games you already own on Steam, with a simple console style screen.
When does it come out?+
Shipping starts June 29, 2026. The first units go to people picked from a sign up line on the Steam Store.
How much does it cost?+
$1,049 for the 512 GB version or $1,349 for the 2 TB version. Adding a Steam Controller costs about $79 more. Tax is extra.
Is it a console or a computer?+
Both, in a way. It looks and feels like a console, but inside it is a PC. That is what lets it play your Steam library.
Does it run Windows?+
No. It runs Valve's own simple system called SteamOS. You do not need Windows, and trying to install it is not supported.
Can it play games in 4K?+
Valve targets 4K at 60fps with FSR upscaling for most games, with 1080p as the minimum verified quality. On a 4K TV, the picture should look sharp even when a game is not running at native 4K.
Is it more powerful than an Xbox Series X?+
On paper the Xbox has a slightly bigger graphics chip (roughly 12 vs 9 TFLOPS). The Steam Machine's advantage is playing your Steam library, mods, and Steam sales, rather than raw power.
Is it better than a PS5?+
The PS5 still costs less (about $650 vs $1,049 in June 2026) and has PlayStation only games. The Steam Machine wins if your games are on Steam and you want PC style freedom.
Should I get a Steam Machine or a Steam Deck?+
Get the Deck ($789) if you want to play on the go. Get the Machine ($1,049) for stronger, smoother gaming on your TV. Plenty of people end up wanting both.
Can I upgrade it later?+
No. The main parts are fixed and cannot be swapped. You can add a microSD card for more game storage, and that is it.
Does it come with a controller?+
Not in the base price. You can add the Steam Controller as a bundle for about $79 more, or use a controller you already own.
Which countries can buy it?+
At launch: the US, Canada, the UK, the EU, Australia, Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. South Korea is not included yet.
How does the sign up line work?+
You sign up on the Steam Store. After sign ups close, Valve puts everyone in a random order and emails the first group to buy. If you are invited, you have 72 hours to complete your purchase before the spot goes to the next person.
Do I need a Steam account?+
Yes. It needs to be in good standing with at least one purchase made before April 27, 2026.
Is there a limit per person?+
Yes, one sign up per household. Valve checks payment and address details to enforce it.
Will my Steam games actually work on it?+
The large majority do. A good rule of thumb: if a game works on the Steam Deck, it will almost certainly work here too.
Do I have to buy my games again?+
No. Your existing Steam library is already there. Just sign in and your games appear.
Can I use mods?+
Yes, for games that support mods. The same rules as the Steam Deck apply.
What about games with anti cheat?+
Some online games with strict anti cheat may not run. If you have a specific game in mind, it is worth checking before you buy.
Is it loud?+
Valve has not shared official noise numbers. Expect it to be quiet when idle and audible under heavy load, similar to the Steam Deck's goals.
Can I plug in a keyboard and mouse?+
Yes, by USB or Bluetooth, for the games where that feels better than a controller.
How much power does it use?+
The graphics chip runs within a 110 watt limit. The whole system will draw a bit more than that when a game is pushing it hard.
Does it have a wired internet port?+
Yes. It has both modern Wi-Fi and a wired internet port for the most stable connection.
Can I add more storage?+
Yes, with a microSD card. The built in storage is not meant to be replaced by the user.
Why is it more expensive than people expected?+
A shortage of memory and storage parts in the years before launch pushed costs up and delayed it. Early hopes were under $750, but it landed at $1,049.
Is it good value in 2026?+
Good value if you are already a Steam user who wants couch gaming. Less so if you only play console exclusives or want the cheapest possible option.
Will more units be available after launch?+
Yes. Valve plans to build more batches over time for people on the waitlist.
Can I return it?+
Returns follow Steam's hardware refund policy. Check the current terms on the Steam Store when you buy.