Steam Machine Pricing: Leaked Figures Reveal Eye-Watering Cost for Valve’s Console Alternative

13 January 2026 Technology

Steam Machine Pricing Controversy Emerges

Valve’s highly anticipated Steam Machine has found itself at the centre of pricing controversy after Czech retailer Smarty listed the Steam Machine at $950 for the 512GB model and $1,070 for the 1TB version, before taxes. The leaked figures have sent shockwaves through the gaming community, with many questioning whether the console-PC hybrid will be accessible to mainstream consumers.

Why the High Price Tag?

When Valve announced the Steam Machine and Steam Frame in November 2025, the company declined to share pricing for either device. The timing couldn’t be worse, as the worsening RAM crisis due to AI’s insatiable need for memory is forcing companies to raise prices across the board, from phones and MacBooks to laptops and gaming consoles. The Steam Machine is launching amidst a global NAND shortage, which has significantly driven up prices for storage and memory—both critical components for Valve’s console-PC hybrid.

Adjusting for Retail Markup

There may be a silver lining for consumers purchasing directly from Valve. If we apply the same logic to the Steam Machine, U.S. prices might be closer to $826 for the 512GB model and $930 for the 1TB version, accounting for the retailer’s markup. If Smarty’s leaked prices are accurate, the Steam Machine could be 50% pricier than a PlayStation 5 (with disc drive) and up to 27% more expensive than an Xbox Series X (1TB model with disc drive).

Market Impact and Consumer Response

The potential pricing has prompted considerable backlash from prospective buyers. Valve was unable to discuss pricing “due to rapidly evolving market conditions,” which could be a reference to tariffs and the general global economic market. Industry analysts remain divided on expectations, with some suggesting the device needs aggressive pricing to compete, whilst others acknowledge that current component costs make lower prices virtually impossible. Valve has hinted at a possible Q1 2026 launch for the Steam Machine, leaving consumers anxiously awaiting official confirmation of the final retail price.