24/06/2026 06:33 - Tecnologia
Valve has taken a bold step into the hardware arena with the official launch of the new Steam Machine, a compact desktop console that promises to revolutionize living room gaming. Unveiled on June 22, 2026, this device delivers performance six times greater than the Steam Deck, positioning Valve as a serious competitor against PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo.
The Steam Machine arrives as a compact cube measuring just 15 centimeters per side, a minimalist design that conceals impressive hardware. Equipped with a semi-custom AMD desktop CPU and GPU, the console runs AAA titles at 4K resolution and 60 FPS thanks to AMD's FSR (FidelityFX Super Resolution) technology.
The SteamOS operating system runs silently while maintaining low temperatures—a crucial feature for such a compact device. It includes Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3, an integrated power supply, and an LED light strip on the exterior that gives it a distinctive gaming aesthetic.
Valve offers four distinct configurations to suit different needs and budgets. All versions share the same technical specifications, differing only in storage capacity and included accessories:
| Model | Storage | Price USD | Price EUR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steam Machine | 512 GB | $1,049 | 1,039 € |
| Steam Machine + Controller | 512 GB + gamepad | $1,128 | 1,108 € |
| Steam Machine Premium | 2 TB | $1,349 | 1,359 € |
| Steam Machine Premium + Controller | 2 TB + gamepad + 2 front plates | $1,428 | 1,428 € |
Note: The 2 TB versions include two additional interchangeable front plates: one in red fabric and another in solid walnut, giving the device a premium touch.
Valve transparently explained the pricing: sharp increases in key component costs, particularly RAM and storage, since the project began in 2023. The historical trend of falling hardware costs reversed in recent months.
Yazan Aldehayyat, a Valve engineer, acknowledged the final price far exceeded internal projections. Unlike other brands, Valve doesn't subsidize the product or sell below cost, preferring transparency about the hardware's true value.
To prevent scalpers and bots, Valve implemented a random lottery-based reservation system. Interested buyers can register until Thursday, June 26, 2026 at 15:00 Argentine time (UTC-3).
On June 26, each registered user will receive an email confirming whether they've entered the reservation queue or joined the waitlist. Only one unit per address and payment method is permitted.
Argentina is NOT included in the initial launch
SteamOS is a Linux-based operating system developed by Valve, specifically designed for gaming. Unlike Windows, SteamOS is free and open-source, allowing Valve to keep costs lower without third-party licensing fees.
The system includes Proton, a compatibility layer that enables most Windows games to run seamlessly on Linux. This means Steam Machine users will have access to a library of thousands of titles without operating system restrictions.
Registration deadline:
Until June 26, 2026 at 15:00 (Argentina time)
Status confirmation:
June 26, 2026 via email
Shipping begins:
Starting June 29, 2026
Important: Users in Argentina can create a Steam account, but cannot participate in the initial lottery as the country is not included in the launch territories.
Alfredo S. Quiroga