Ethan Crossfield 
Valve has finally provided the key details for its Steam Frame virtual reality headset, including prices, storage configurations, and the process for getting one. Buyers will not enter a standard open sale immediately. Instead, they must join an official waitlist before the deadline, with Valve using a random selection process to determine who moves into the reservation queue.
What changed for the Steam Frame
The Steam Frame will launch with two storage options. The 256GB model costs $1,059 USD, while the 1TB model is priced at $1,299. These are the first officially announced prices for the headset, ending the extended period in which Valve had not provided a sales schedule for the device. The announcement follows the earlier unveiling and sale of the Steam Machine and Steam Controller, two other pieces of Valve hardware that were revealed before the Steam Frame received its full purchasing details.
Who can join the purchasing process
Anyone interested in buying a Steam Frame can sign up through the official site before September 17 at 10 a.m. PT. Valve will close the waitlist at that time and randomly select people from the entries. Each entrant will receive an email within one day explaining whether they remain on the waitlist or have been moved into the reservation queue. This means joining the list does not guarantee an immediate purchase opportunity, but it is required for anyone who wants to be considered during the initial distribution.
What happens after the waitlist closes
The first selected groups will be able to purchase their headsets starting September 18. After those initial purchases, Valve will continue selecting and notifying people as additional Steam Frame units become available. Selected buyers will have 72 hours from the time of notification to complete their purchase. If they miss that window, Valve will offer the opportunity to another person in the reservation queue. Prospective buyers should therefore monitor their email and be ready to act if selected.
What players should know
- The 256GB Steam Frame costs $1,059 USD.
- The 1TB Steam Frame costs $1,299.
- The waitlist closes on September 17 at 10 a.m. PT.
- Initial selected buyers can purchase starting September 18.
- Selected buyers have 72 hours to complete their purchase.
Steam Frame models and prices
| Model | Storage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Steam Frame | 256GB | $1,059 USD |
| Steam Frame | 1TB | $1,299 USD |
Expert View
The important distinction is that Valve has announced a reservation process rather than a fully open sale. The pricing and storage choices are now clear, but availability will depend on random selection and the arrival of new units. Readers who are interested should join before the deadline, while understanding that registration alone does not secure a headset.
