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I’ve tested the Steam Frame for a month now, and I’ve never wanted a Steam Deck less
The reviewer finds Valve’s Steam Frame promising as a lightweight, cable-free VR headset, but says its lack of a wired PC connection limits its appeal. That trade-off matters as Valve enters a struggling VR market, where other major companies are scaling back or shifting focus.
The headset weighs 440g and streams PC games over a dedicated wireless dongle, while also working as a standalone device. The reviewer praises its reflective finish, adjustable headband and comfort during extended use, but argues that a DisplayPort option would have made it more versatile. Its reported price is above $1,000 or £800, amid higher RAM and storage costs.
In short
- Steam Frame is light and comfortable.
- PC gaming depends on wireless streaming.
- Its price exceeds $1,000 or £800.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
The Steam Frame’s lightweight, cable-free design and comfortable fit could make VR more appealing for longer sessions, while standalone use adds flexibility. A dedicated wireless connection may be a worthwhile trade-off for players who value freedom of movement and convenience over a wired display connection, even at a premium price.
The case against
Without a wired PC connection such as DisplayPort, the headset may not suit users who prioritise reliable, high-quality PC VR or want one device for a wider range of setups. At more than $1,000 or £800, that limitation is harder to overlook, particularly in a struggling VR market where buyers may be cautious about investing.
Explained simply
Valve is a games company best known for Steam, its online shop and platform for PC games, and the Steam Deck, a handheld computer for playing them. The Steam Frame is a virtual reality headset: it can run some games on its own or stream PC games wirelessly, so players can see and interact with a 3D world around them.
Wireless headsets avoid cables but depend on a reliable connection, while a wired link can offer another way to connect to a powerful PC. That choice affects who the device suits and how it fits alongside Valve’s handheld. VR remains a challenging market, with several major technology companies reducing or changing their efforts, and the reported price places the Frame in a costly category.