After Your Steam Machine Pre-Order, the Long Wait Begins

Valve has officially opened pre-orders for the Steam Machine, following the recent reveal of pricing and launch details for its hybrid PC-console. Much like the initial rollout of the Steam Deck, availability is constrained, utilizing a first-come, first-served reservation queue. To discourage scalping, Valve is strictly enforcing a one-unit-per-household policy. However, securing a spot on the list does not guarantee an immediate purchase window.

Below, we break down how the reservation process works, the available hardware bundles, and what you should expect once your notification arrives.


How to pre-order the Steam Machine

A Steam Machine with wood-colored front panel, that's enveloped in greenery. Image: Valve

Before attempting to reserve your unit, ensure you meet the following eligibility criteria:

  • Your Steam account must be in good standing.
  • You must have completed at least one purchase on the account prior to April 27, 2026.

To reserve a unit, register via the official Steam Machine page. Sign-ups are open now through June 25 at 10 a.m. PDT. Once this window closes, Valve will randomize the initial queue and begin sending invitations. Depending on your position, you will receive one of two notifications:

  1. Purchase Invitation: You have a reserved unit. Upon notification, you will have a 72-hour window to complete your purchase.
  2. Waitlist Status: You are placed in a queue; as more stock is allocated, you will be notified when a unit is ready for purchase.

Note: Anyone registering after the June 25 deadline will be placed at the end of the line. Valve has not provided a specific shipping timeline or details on the frequency of restocking waves.

To prevent reselling, Valve will verify orders using billing and shipping address data to ensure only one unit reaches each household.


How much does the Steam Machine cost?

Valve is offering four distinct configurations, including standalone units and bundles that include the Steam Controller:

  • Steam Machine 512 GB: $1,049
  • Steam Machine 512 GB with Steam Controller: $1,128
  • Steam Machine 2 TB: $1,349
  • Steam Machine 2 TB with Steam Controller: $1,428

Please note that these prices exclude applicable sales tax, which will be calculated at checkout based on your region. The 2 TB model includes bonus aesthetic enhancements, specifically red fabric and solid walnut faceplates.


Steam Machine specs

Valve's Steam Machine, placed next to a goldfish tank. Image: Valve

First unveiled in late 2025, the Steam Machine is positioned as a capable mid-range gaming PC. It features sufficient memory to handle modern titles at 1080p, with integrated upscaling technology designed to support 4K resolution output.

Official specifications provided by Valve include:

  • Semi-custom AMD Zen 4 6C/12T Processor
  • Semi-custom AMD RDNA3 28CUs GPU
  • 16 GB DDR5 RAM + 8 GB GDDR6 VRAM
  • 512 GB NVMe SSD with expandable microSD card slot
  • Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, and Gigabit Ethernet
  • Operating System: SteamOS 3
 

Source: Polygon

Read also