Steam Machine preorders open: Here’s how to secure yours

Valve has officially launched the reservation system for the Steam Machine, but the process is anything but straightforward. Unlike traditional preorders, this approach uses a randomized entry system designed to level the playing field and curb bot-driven purchases. Here’s what you need to know to maximize your chances.

How the Steam Machine reservation system works

The system opens today, giving users a chance to enter their details for a random selection process. Unlike the $5 reservation fee Valve used for the Steam Deck, the Steam Machine reservation is free. Once you submit your entry, you’ll receive a confirmation email with a unique reservation code. If selected, you’ll have a limited window to complete your purchase.

Valve has confirmed four hardware tiers, each priced differently based on storage and included accessories:

• Steam Machine 512GB: $1,049 (or equivalent in CAD, EUR, GBP, AUD, or PLN)
• Steam Machine 512GB with Steam Controller: $1,128 (or equivalent in CAD, EUR, GBP, AUD, or PLN)
• Steam Machine 2TB: $1,349 (or equivalent in CAD, EUR, GBP, AUD, or PLN)
• Steam Machine 2TB with Steam Controller: $1,428 (or equivalent in CAD, EUR, GBP, AUD, or PLN)

Pricing varies by region, so check Valve’s official store for exact conversions before entering your reservation.

Steps to enter your Steam Machine reservation

Entering the reservation pool is simple, but timing and accuracy matter. Valve recommends acting quickly, as entries may close once inventory nears depletion. Here’s the process:

1. Visit the official Steam Machine reservation page and sign in to your Steam account.
2. Select your preferred configuration and confirm your region’s pricing.
3. Complete the entry form with your details, including your Steam account ID and contact information.
4. Submit the entry before the cutoff time. Valve will notify winners via email within 48 hours.

If selected, you’ll have 48 hours to finalize your purchase. Miss the window, and your reservation expires. Valve advises checking spam folders to avoid missing critical updates.

Why Valve’s new system favors real users

The reservation model reflects lessons learned from the Steam Deck launch, where bot-driven scalping drove prices to exorbitant levels. By removing upfront fees and randomizing selections, Valve aims to prioritize genuine gamers over automated resellers. The system also discourages bulk purchases, ensuring a fairer distribution of limited stock.

Early feedback suggests the system is effective but requires patience. Users report mixed experiences, with some securing entries within minutes and others facing delays. Valve has not disclosed total inventory or regional allocation details, leaving some uncertainty about availability.

What to expect after entering your reservation

Once your entry is submitted, monitor your email for updates from Valve. Winners will receive a reservation code and instructions for completing the purchase. Unsuccessful entries will not receive further communication, so there’s no need to follow up.

For those who miss out, Valve hasn’t ruled out restocking events, though no timeline has been provided. In the meantime, keeping an eye on official announcements is the best strategy. The Steam Machine represents Valve’s latest push into hardware, blending PC gaming with console-like simplicity—a move that could reshape the living room gaming landscape.

Expect demand to remain high, especially during the holiday season, so staying prepared is key to securing your unit.