Steam Frame

Valve's Headset Works Two Ways

Steam Frame is a wireless VR headset that can stream games from a PC or run compatible titles on its own hardware. The standalone side uses a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and 16GB of LPDDR5X memory, while SteamOS, Proton, and FEX help bridge games built for different software and processor architectures. Valve also includes controllers and a copy of Half-Life: Alyx.

Local Play Has a Different Ceiling

Half-Life: Alyx can run directly on the headset, but the standalone version uses reduced visual settings and eye-tracked rendering to fit the mobile processor. Streaming from a gaming PC through the included wireless adapter delivers the fuller experience. Valve's Standalone Verified label is intended to show which games are suited to local play, and a microSD slot leaves room beyond the built-in drive.

Storage Comes With a Steep Jump

The 256GB kit costs $1,059, while the otherwise matching 1TB model rises to $1,299. A rear-mounted 21.6Wh battery keeps the headset untethered, but a power adapter is not included; any suitable USB-C charger up to 45W can handle charging. Valve also sells a $49 ergonomic kit with hand straps, a top strap, and an extended light blocker.

Reservations Become a Lottery

Signup closes September 17, when Valve randomizes the reservation and waitlist order. The first purchase emails and shipments begin September 18, with more invitations going out as units become available.