Steam Frame Launches at $1,059 With Standalone Half Life Alyx Included

Valve has launched the Steam Frame, revealing a starting price of $1,059 for its new standalone virtual reality headset. A higher capacity version with 1TB of storage will cost $1,299.

The headset runs SteamOS and can operate without a gaming PC. Valve is also including Half Life: Alyx with every unit, with the game optimized to run directly on the Steam Frame hardware.

Reservations are now open in supported regions and will remain available until September 17. After reservations close, purchase invitations will be distributed before shipping begins.

Steam Frame works as a standalone SteamOS headset

The $1,059 model includes 256GB of internal storage alongside 16GB of LPDDR5X memory. Storage can also be expanded through a microSD card, which should make the lower capacity model more practical for players with larger libraries.

A second version increases built in storage to 1TB for $1,299. Other major hardware specifications remain unchanged between the two versions.

The Steam Frame uses a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor and carries a 21.6Wh lithium ion battery.

Each eye receives a 2160 x 2160 LCD display, with supported refresh rates ranging from 72Hz to 144Hz. The Steam Frame Controllers are included with both configurations.

Although the headset is designed to operate independently, you can also connect it to a more powerful PC when you want to play demanding PC VR titles. This gives the hardware two roles, functioning as a standalone SteamOS system while still supporting traditional PC based VR use.

Half Life Alyx has been optimized for standalone play

One of the more important launch details is the inclusion of Half Life: Alyx.

Every Steam Frame purchase includes a copy of the game, and Valve has prepared a version specifically optimized for the headset's standalone hardware.

That means you will not need to stream the game from a separate gaming PC to play it on Steam Frame.

This confirms earlier signs that Half Life: Alyx would play a significant role in the headset's launch. The game remains one of Valve's most important VR titles, so making it available directly on the new hardware gives Steam Frame owners a major game to try immediately.

Charger and comfort accessories cost extra

Valve is not including a charging power supply in the standard box.

The company says you can use any compatible USB charger rated at 45W or higher. An official charger will also be available separately for $29.

There is also an optional Ergonomic Accessories Kit priced at $59.

The kit includes controller hand straps, a top strap for the headset and an extended light blocker. These additions are intended to improve comfort and reduce external light during VR sessions.

Valve is initially using a reservation system rather than opening unrestricted sales. Reservations close on September 17, after which selected customers will receive purchasing opportunities before units begin shipping.

At $1,059, Steam Frame sits well above many mainstream standalone VR headsets, but its SteamOS support, PC connectivity and bundled standalone version of Half Life: Alyx give it a broader PC gaming focus.