For years, gamers have had to choose: a console that’s simple to use on the TV, or a gaming PC with a huge library of games but more fiddling at a desk. Valve, the company behind Steam, thinks you shouldn’t have to choose. In 2026 it launched the Steam Machine.
What is the Steam Machine?
The Steam Machine is a small, box-shaped gaming PC designed to sit under your TV like a games console. It runs SteamOS, the same Linux-based software as Valve’s Steam Deck handheld, with a controller-friendly interface.
Valve announced it in November 2025 alongside a new Steam Controller and a wireless VR headset, the Steam Frame, and it went on sale in mid-2026.
What’s inside
- A semi-custom AMD 6-core processor
- 16 GB of memory
- A semi-custom AMD graphics chip
- 512 GB or 2 TB of storage
Why it’s interesting
- Your existing Steam library. It plays games you already own on Steam, so there’s no need to buy them again for a new console.
- PC game prices. Steam sales and discounts are often cheaper than console stores.
- Console-like simplicity. Turn it on, pick up the controller, play.
- It’s still a PC. Browse the web, install other launchers, or switch to a desktop mode.
Things to know before buying
- Price. It costs more than a PlayStation 5 or Xbox. Valve has said the price is higher than it wanted, partly because of rising memory costs.
- Anti-cheat. Some popular online multiplayer games use anti-cheat software that blocks SteamOS/Linux. Check your favourite games first.
- Not every game runs perfectly. Most do, thanks to Valve’s Proton compatibility layer, but not all.
- Availability. Stock has been limited, with Valve inviting reservation holders to buy in waves.
How to check your games
Steam shows a compatibility badge for SteamOS devices:
- ✅ Verified: works great with the controller and screen
- ⚠️ Playable: works, but may need a tweak such as using the on-screen keyboard
- ❌ Unsupported: doesn’t currently work
Check the badge on each game’s store page, or browse your library by compatibility.
Alternatives
Not sure it’s for you? Other ways to play PC games on the TV:
- Steam Deck, Valve’s handheld, which can also connect to a TV
- Steam Link / Remote Play: stream games from your existing gaming PC to your TV
- Cloud gaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming or GeForce NOW, which need fast broadband
- A small form-factor gaming PC running Windows, if you need games with anti-cheat
💡 Tip: for streaming or cloud gaming, use a wired Ethernet connection or a strong Wi-Fi 6/7 signal to the TV. It makes a huge difference to lag.
Wrapping up
The Steam Machine brings PC gaming to the sofa with console-like simplicity. If you already have a big Steam library, it’s appealing. Check the Verified badges and anti-cheat support on your favourite games before buying.
Next in the series: The “Real” 5G Is Arriving: 5G Standalone Explained
Sources: Wikipedia: Steam Machine · Engadget: Valve’s Steam Machine launches in 2026 · The Gadgeteer: Steam Machine price and specs
