That $1049 is just the starting price, getting you just the 512GB version of the mini gaming PC without the Steam Controller. If you do want to add the Steam Controller, there is a bundle for $1128, which means you're getting Valve's controller for $79, rather than the $99 it'll cost you by itself.

Valve engineers hint the Steam Machine was originally targeting around $750, but the global RAM shortage drove the final price up to $1,049 at launch.

Valve Steam Machine starts at $1,049 across four SKUs, offering upgradeable RAM, no subscription fees, and access to your full Steam library on your TV.

The Steam Machine and the PS5 Pro are two of the most powerful consoles in gaming history -- but which one is more powerful?

Of course, there are benefits to buying a Steam Machine over consoles from Sony, Microsoft, and Nintendo, not least of which is because it includes access to Steam’s absolutely gigantic library of games.

The Steam Machine is Valve's new piece of hardware entering the scene as a mini PC built for living room gaming. I love a lot about it, had some issues with it, but overall came away from my time with it feeling very positive.