Unforeseen RAM Costs: The Challenge of Predicting Steam Machine Prices

The Impact of RAM Shortages on the Future of Steam Machines

One of the most popular games this week isn’t a typical video game, but rather a guessing game centered around the price of the upcoming Steam Machine. This mini-PC, powered by Valve’s SteamOS, has captured the attention of gamers and tech enthusiasts alike as they eagerly await its release in 2026.

However, the excitement surrounding the Steam Machine is overshadowed by a significant challenge in the PC hardware industry – the skyrocketing prices of RAM. In a surprising turn of events, the cost of RAM modules has reached unprecedented levels, reminiscent of the infamous Graphics Card shortage of 2020.

The root cause of this shortage can be traced back to the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence data centers, which are consuming a significant portion of the global memory output. As a result, consumer PC builders are facing exorbitant price hikes on essential components like RAM kits.

Major hardware manufacturers with existing stockpiles may weather the storm, but others could struggle to keep up with production demands. Reports suggest that even console manufacturers like Microsoft are considering price increases to offset the rising costs of memory.

These challenges pose a significant threat to the future of the Steam Machine. Valve may be forced to pay premium prices for DDR5 modules, potentially leading to a higher retail price for the Steam Machine upon its release. Alternatively, they could deplete their existing stockpile of memory and face supply chain disruptions in the future.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding the availability and pricing of components in 2026, Valve has refrained from announcing official prices for the Steam Machine. Speculation abounds as enthusiasts attempt to estimate the cost of a DIY equivalent to the Steam Machine, taking into account the performance and specifications of the mini-PC.

One such estimation includes a breakdown of components that closely mirror the Steam Machine’s capabilities, such as an AMD Ryzen CPU and a Zotac GeForce GPU. The total cost of these components amounts to £869, highlighting the potential financial impact of the RAM shortage on consumer electronics.

As the industry grapples with fluctuating prices and supply chain challenges, the future of the Steam Machine hangs in the balance. Whether Valve will navigate the memory crisis successfully or face obstacles in delivering their innovative mini-PC remains to be seen.