Steam Machine Will be Priced Like a PC - and Probably Won't be Cheap

Valve confirms the Steam Machine will be priced like a PC with similar performance, not like a console. Here’s what that means for UAE gamers.

Valve Steam Machine will cost PC-level money

Valve says the Steam Machine will be priced like a PC with the same performance level
No subsidised hardware, so don't expect console-style pricing
Performance targets are more than six times the Steam Deck

Valve is getting ready to ship the Steam Machine next year, and the company has made one thing very clear: it will cost the same as a PC that delivers its level of performance. That means no console-style "cheap upfront, pay later" trick. The device aims to deliver serious power in a living-room friendly box, but the final value will depend on what it lands for in the market.

Performance goals

The Steam Machine is built for couch gaming, not desk gaming, but Valve claims it still packs strong hardware.

More than six times the performance of the Steam Deck.
Tuned for big-screen play rather than handheld use.
Not on the same level as top-tier gaming desktops.

The focus here is on getting strong PC-grade performance into a small box that fits under a TV. It’s meant for people who want Steam’s full library without building a custom tower. But it won’t try to compete with the highest-end rigs that run at extreme power and thermals.

Pricing approach

Valve isn’t following Sony and Microsoft, who usually subsidise hardware to keep console prices low. This time, the sticker price reflects the parts inside.

Price will match a DIY PC with similar specs.
No subsidies at all.
Final numbers are still not fixed due to fluctuating component costs.

Because nothing is being subsidised, users should expect a price closer to mid-range PC builds rather than consoles. For UAE buyers, that usually means a noticeable jump above US or EU figures once regional costs stack on.

Market positioning

The Steam Machine sits between two worlds: the convenience of consoles and the flexibility of PCs.

Access to the full Steam library.
Living-room experience with a compact system.
Analysts say adoption will depend on final pricing.

It’s built for people who want PC gaming without the desk setup. But if the price creeps close to proper desktops, many users might decide to build or upgrade instead. In a price-sensitive region like the UAE, that gap becomes even more important.

For related coverage on gaming hardware, check out our PC gaming section on Tbreak.

Who should consider it

The Steam Machine won’t be for everyone, and Valve isn’t pretending otherwise.

Good for players who want Steam on a TV.
Useful for small apartments where a gaming desk isn’t practical.
Less convincing for anyone who already owns a solid gaming PC.

If the device runs cool, stays quiet and offers an easy plug-and-play experience, it could attract players who dislike the hassle of maintaining a full PC build. But if the price lands too high, many UAE gamers will compare it against existing PCs or standard consoles and walk away.