By Jon Scarr
Valve is back in the hardware space with three new Steam devices designed to expand how gamers access their libraries: the Steam Machine, a next-generation Steam Controller, and the Steam Frame VR headset. Each device runs on SteamOS and is built to work together across desktop, living-room, and VR setups.
The new Steam Machine reimagines the living-room PC as a compact, console-style system powered by AMD hardware and running SteamOS for plug-and-play gaming on a TV. It’s joined by a redesigned Steam Controller that carries over familiar elements from the Steam Deck—thumbsticks, gyro aiming, and trackpads—with updated components for broader compatibility. Rounding out the lineup is Steam Frame, a lightweight wireless VR headset that can stream both VR and traditional games directly from a Steam library.
All three follow the same open-platform philosophy as Steam Deck and will launch in regions where Steam Deck is currently sold, including Canada, the United States, Europe, and areas served by Komodo in Asia. Valve plans to begin shipping in early 2026, with final pricing and release dates still to be confirmed.
It has been nearly a decade since Valve’s first Steam Machine, and the company revisiting that idea now feels like a natural next step for SteamOS hardware. I’m interested to see how this lineup fits into the wider PC gaming landscape once it launches.
Steam Machine Design and Specs
Valve’s new Steam Machine marks a clear return to living-room PC gaming. It’s a small cube-shaped system, roughly six inches across, smaller than an Xbox Series X but designed to deliver higher performance than a handheld like the Steam Deck. Running SteamOS, it provides access to the same library and interface in a console-style format without requiring Windows setup.
The system uses a six-core AMD Zen 4 CPU clocked up to 4.8 GHz, paired with 16 GB DDR5 RAM. Graphics come from a custom RDNA 3 GPU with 28 compute units, placing it near the RX 7600 in capability. Valve lists 512 GB and 2 TB M.2 SSD options, both upgradeable, and a microSD slot compatible with cards from the Steam Deck.
A large cooling fan and copper heat-pipe assembly handle up to 200 watts of system power. The removable magnetic front plate simplifies cleaning and customization, while a light strip along the front shows download progress.
After years of bulky HTPC builds, Valve’s new design looks focused on practicality and everyday use. It’s easy to imagine this box tucked under a TV quietly managing downloads while that front light signals progress.
Next-Gen New Steam Controller
Valve’s new Steam Controller reintroduces the company’s approach to flexible PC input. It shares DNA with the Steam Deck and works across Steam Machine, Steam Deck, Steam Frame, and PC without requiring setup changes.
It includes magnetic thumbsticks built for accuracy and durability, dual trackpads for mouse-like input in compatible games, and gyro aiming alongside grip buttons. The Grip Sense feature detects when you’re holding or releasing the controller, automatically toggling functions such as gyro aiming. With HD haptics, it provides tactile feedback that corresponds to on-screen actions.
Connectivity options include a dedicated Steam Controller puck that serves as both a wireless dongle and magnetic charger, plus Bluetooth and USB-C support. Valve describes it as a controller intended for consistent use across its expanding hardware ecosystem.
This release marks Valve’s return to controller development after several years, focusing on broader compatibility and expanded input support within Steam’s platform.
SteamOS Ecosystem and Compatibility
All three new devices, the Steam Machine, Steam Controller, and Steam Frame, run on SteamOS, Valve’s Linux-based operating system. SteamOS provides access to the same library, interface, and features available on the Steam Deck, creating a unified experience across handheld, desktop, and living-room setups.
Valve says the hardware is optimized for gaming on Steam while remaining open platforms. Users can install additional software and connect accessories as they would on a PC. SteamOS relies on Valve’s Proton layer, which allows many Windows games to run smoothly on Linux.
The devices will be available in regions where Steam Deck currently ships: the United States, Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia, and areas served by Komodo, including Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. Valve’s goal is to start shipping in early 2026, with pricing and specific dates to follow.
With SteamOS now powering handhelds, consoles, and VR hardware, Valve appears focused on expanding its ecosystem around a single software base. I’m curious to see how that approach evolves once these devices reach gamers.
Steam Machine’s Place in the Living-Room PC Gaming Arena
Valve’s return to the living-room market marks an important point for PC gaming. Following the success of the Steam Deck, the new Steam Machine and Steam Controller extend that momentum into the home environment. Together, they form a broader hardware lineup that connects handheld and TV gaming under one platform.
SteamOS sits at the center, offering a consistent interface across devices. The idea of running Steam games on a console-style system that still functions like a PC feels like a logical extension of Valve’s recent work. It also reinforces the notion that PC gaming can fit comfortably in shared spaces, not just on a desk.
Valve aims to ship all three devices in early 2026, and pricing will play a major role in how successful this push becomes. If the Steam Machine reaches the right balance between cost and performance, it could appeal to gamers who want PC flexibility with console convenience.
It’s encouraging to see Valve investing in dedicated PC hardware again. The company seems determined to make Steam accessible wherever you choose to play, and this new lineup could mark a meaningful step toward that goal.
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