Steam Frame launches this week starting at £889
The virtual reality world just got a significant upgrade, and it comes with a hefty price tag. Valve has officially dropped the launch pricing for the Steam Frame VR headset, and the numbers immediately place it in the high-end category, pushing it squarely in line with the pricing of the Steam Machine.
This isn’t just a new gadget; it’s a fully standalone wireless VR system built with serious components. For the most entry-level option, the 256GB model will cost £889, while the more expansive 1TB version is set to retail for £1089. These figures reflect the ongoing global crunch for memory and storage, ensuring that the Steam Frame is positioned as a premium experience.
Under the hood, the Steam Frame boasts specifications that promise immersive quality. It is powered by a 4nm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC, coupled with 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM, offering the necessary muscle for complex VR environments. Visual fidelity is delivered via dual 2160×2160 LCD panels, capable of refreshing at 72 to 144Hz, with experimental support for a 144Hz refresh rate.
The engineering goes beyond the screen. The system features inside-out tracking, blazing-fast Wi-Fi 7 connectivity, and Bluetooth 5.4. Battery life is handled by a 21.6Wh cell, ensuring you can dive deep into virtual worlds without constant tethering.
Beyond the raw hardware, Valve has packed the box with rich content. The Steam Frame comes pre-installed with SteamOS 3, along with full 6-DOF Steam Frame controllers and a copy of the celebrated Half-Life: Alyx, meaning you get premium VR access right out of the gate.
To further customize your setup, Valve has also offered a range of accessories. A dedicated charger is available for £29, although existing 45W USB-C chargers will also work seamlessly. For those who want to personalize their experience, the Ergonomic Accessories Kit costs £59, which includes upgraded straps and a light blocker. A simpler Accessory Replacement Kit is also available for £49, providing essential items like a fresh face gasket and head cushion.
As with any sought-after Valve hardware, purchasing a Steam Frame requires patience. Prospective buyers must enter Valve’s reservation queue, where availability, demand, and stock levels will ultimately determine how quickly you can secure your spot. While VR remains a niche market, the assurance of Valve’s hardware quality sets a high bar for what the future of portable VR will look like.