The Steam Machine Returns in 2026: Valve Bets on a Console-PC

Valve has announced the return of the Steam Machine, a desktop console that combines the power of a PC with the console gaming experience. After the failure of its first attempt in 2015, the company is back with a renewed, more powerful proposal focused on the Steam ecosystem.

What is the Steam Machine?

The new Steam Machine is a living room mini-PC designed to connect to your TV and deliver smooth 4K gaming. Unlike traditional consoles, this device runs SteamOS and offers full access to the Steam library, including mods, advanced settings, and keyboard/mouse compatibility.

Key Technical Specifications

• Processor: AMD Zen 4 (6 cores / 12 threads)
• Graphics: RDNA 3 GPU with 28 compute units
• Memory: 16 GB DDR5
• Storage: 512 GB or 2 TB SSD
• Target Resolution: 4K at 60 FPS with support for FSR and ray tracing
• Connectivity: HDMI-CEC, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2
• Operating System: Updated SteamOS

Steam Controller Revamped

Alongside the console, Valve will launch a new Steam Controller, redesigned for greater precision, ergonomics, and compatibility with both PC and console titles. This peripheral aims to enhance gameplay in genres traditionally played with keyboard and mouse.

• Improved ergonomics: More comfortable for long sessions
• Haptic trackpads: Precision for RTS and FPS games
• Full compatibility: Works with Steam Machine, Steam Deck, and PC
• Customizable buttons: Advanced mapping for each game

Steam Frame: Integrated Virtual Reality

Together with the Steam Machine, Valve will introduce the new Steam Frame VR headset, designed to deliver immersive experiences without hassle. It features high-resolution OLED displays, inside-out tracking with no external sensors, and full compatibility with Steam VR games. Its goal is to bring wireless, high-quality virtual reality to the living room.

• Display: OLED with 2K resolution per eye
• FOV: 120° field of view
• Inside-out tracking: No external sensors required
• Compatibility: Steam VR games and multimedia experiences
• Connectivity: USB-C and Wi-Fi 6 for wireless mode

Context and Strategy

Valve has learned from its mistakes: the first generation of Steam Machines failed due to fragmentation and lack of identity. Now, backed by the success of the Steam Deck, the company is betting on a single model built in-house, with a clear focus: bringing PC gaming to the living room without complications.

Launch and Availability

The new Steam Machine will arrive in early 2026, with initial distribution in Europe and Spain exclusively through the Steam store. While pricing hasn’t been confirmed, it’s expected to compete directly with the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.

Conclusion

The Steam Machine represents Valve’s most ambitious attempt to establish itself in living room hardware. With powerful architecture, a mature ecosystem, and a loyal community, this console-PC could become a real alternative for those seeking the flexibility of a PC with the comfort of a console.

The Steam Machine returns with force in 2026