Valve Steam Machine launch postponed due to RAM shortage

Valve Steam Machine pricing has been delayed as Valve continues to navigate a worsening memory and storage shortage impacting the entire hardware industry. While the company previously confirmed that the Steam Machine, Steam Frame, and updated Steam Controller were targeting an early 2026 release window, Valve has now stated it is still unable to share pricing or exact launch dates for the upcoming devices. According to Valve, the issue is not scheduling, but rapidly changing component costs driven by limited availability of memory and storage hardware.

In a recent update, Valve explained that industry-wide shortages have intensified since the hardware lineup was first revealed in late 2025. The company specifically pointed to rising prices and constrained supply of critical components, stating that these conditions have forced it to reassess both pricing and shipping plans, particularly for the Steam Machine and Steam Frame. While Valve insists the intended release window has not changed, it acknowledged that setting a final retail price has become increasingly difficult under current market conditions.

Memory shortages complicate Steam Machine pricing

The Valve Steam Machine is far from the only piece of hardware affected by the ongoing memory crisis. The global surge in demand for RAM and storage, largely attributed to the continued expansion of AI development and data-center infrastructure, has already caused ripple effects across the PC and laptop markets. Industry rumors suggest that even future console hardware could face delays or price increases if memory supply issues persist into 2026.

For Valve, the challenge lies in balancing performance expectations with pricing that still makes sense for consumers. Early estimates from analysts and enthusiasts suggested the Steam Machine could launch in the $700 to $800 range, but Valve has previously cautioned against viewing the device as a traditional console competitor. Instead, the company has repeatedly emphasized that the Steam Machine should be priced more like a PC, reflecting its hardware flexibility and upgrade potential. As memory prices continue to rise, that positioning could push the final price higher than originally expected, while still remaining competitive with similarly equipped gaming PCs.

Despite the pricing uncertainty, Valve has reassured users that the Steam Machine’s technical goals remain unchanged. The company confirmed once again that the system is capable of reaching 4K at 60 frames per second with FSR enabled. However, Valve also acknowledged that performance will vary depending on the game, noting that some titles may rely on upscaling from 1080p combined with variable refresh rate support to ensure consistently smooth gameplay.

Hardware flexibility remains a key focus

Beyond performance targets, Valve shared additional details aimed at reinforcing the Steam Machine’s PC-like identity. The company confirmed that both the SSD and system memory will be easily accessible and upgradeable by users, a feature that sets the device apart from traditional closed console designs. This approach allows owners to extend the lifespan of the hardware and adapt to changing performance needs over time.

Valve also revealed plans to release CAD files and technical specifications for the Steam Machine’s faceplate. This move is intended to support third-party manufacturers and community creators, enabling the development of custom accessories and alternative designs. It reflects Valve’s long-standing philosophy of openness and modifiability, which has been a defining trait of its hardware efforts in the past.

For now, Valve Steam Machine fans will need to remain patient. While the company maintains that launch timing has not been pushed back, pricing clarity remains dependent on how quickly the memory market stabilizes. Until then, Valve appears committed to transparency, offering insight into the challenges behind the scenes while avoiding firm promises it may not be able to keep. As the hardware industry continues to grapple with component shortages, the Steam Machine stands as another example of how even major players are feeling the pressure.