This is one of the most commented rumors of the moment: the price of Valve’s future Steam Machine. In a technical video, Linus Tech Tips reviewed the components of the hybrid console to estimate the cost. Result: “these parts, at their historically low price, would cost around $602, but this amount has increased significantly in recent months, by 50%, bringing the price to around $900.” With a minimum margin, Linus expects a final consumer price of around “$699 if hardware prices remain unchanged.”
Will Valve be able to lower the bill?
One of Valve’s strengths is its direct distribution model. Unlike Sony or Microsoft, the brand does not depend on the margins imposed by physical resellers. But despite this, the floor price remains high. Linus Tech Tips also specifies that “this price concerns a model with a 500 GB SSD… and not 1 TB or 2 TB”. In other words, versions with more storage could easily approach or exceed $850 to $999.
An ambitious machine… but for which audience?
The Steam Machine targets a very specific segment: that of PC gamers who want a console experience in the living room. But at 700 dollars minimum, the question arises: isn’t it better to build a small PC yourself, or buy a PS5 Pro for 499 dollars? The promise of the Steam Machine is power, the Steam library, silence, compactness. But at this price, the public risks remaining cautious, especially if no exclusivity is announced at launch.
SSD, performance, storage: the trade-offs to watch out for
In 2025, the hardware market is in full tension. The surge in component prices, fueled by AI demand, could further increase the bill. Valve will likely have to juggle performance and profitability. A 512 GB configuration might seem limited for players installing several AAA titles. Conversely, a 2TB model exceeding $1,000 could become out of budget for the average gamer. The right balance will be crucial.