Valve Launches Steam Frames VR Headset: Prices Revealed

Valve has announced its new autonomous virtual reality headset, the Steam Frames, confirming pricing for two models. The 256GB version is set at €1,049, while the 1TB model will cost €1,279. This positions the Steam Frames as a premium product, priced significantly higher than previous VR offerings like the Valve Index, which launched at €799.

The higher cost is attributed to the integrated hardware enabling standalone operation, including 16GB of RAM and substantial storage. Consequently, the Steam Frames are positioned as a niche product, nearly doubling the price of the Meta Quest 3. While the Quest 3 offers more battery life (139.2 minutes in Half-Life: Alyx versus 115.8 minutes for Steam Frames), the Steam Frames are designed for greater comfort, improved facial cooling, and lower latency during streaming.

Steam Frames Official Pricing: €1,049 or €1,279 Based on Storage

Both Steam Frames models share the same core hardware: a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 SoC and 16GB of LPDDR5X RAM. The headset can run games directly via SteamOS or function as a streaming device, connected wirelessly to a PC or via cable. The primary differentiator is storage, offered in 256GB or 1TB UFS formats. While a microSD card slot is available for expansion, using it will result in higher loading times, potentially impacting the gaming experience.

The headset features dual LCD screens, each with a resolution of 2,160 x 2,160 pixels. They utilize pancake optics and support refresh rates of 72, 90, and 120 Hz, with an experimental 144 Hz mode. A key feature is eye-tracking, employed for Valve's foveated rendering system. This technology concentrates graphical fidelity and bandwidth on the user's direct line of sight, enhancing visual quality where it matters most and reducing resource allocation in peripheral vision.

For low-latency wireless gaming, the headset supports Wi-Fi 7 with independent 5 and 6 GHz radios. A 6 GHz Wi-Fi 6E USB adapter is included for direct, low-latency PC connections. The Steam Frames weigh 440 grams with the standard strap and facial interface, while the visor module alone is 185 grams. The 21.6 Wh battery is rear-mounted for weight balance. Initial independent tests suggest approximately 2 hours of gameplay, with battery life varying based on game demands and refresh rate settings.

Reservations Open with a Random Queue System, Similar to Steam Machine

Alongside the pricing, Valve has opened the reservation process for the Steam Frames. Interested users can register their interest; purchases will not be direct initially. Valve will collect requests and then establish a random order for the queue.

Starting September 18, users will receive an email indicating their reservation status or if they are placed on a waiting list. The first purchase invitations are expected around September 21, with subsequent units being released as they become available.

Optional accessories include an official charger for €39 and an ergonomic kit (strap and light blocker) with controllers for €69. There are also reports of a future battery pack designed to extend playtime. Valve includes the game Half-Life: Alyx with every headset purchase.