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Will the New Steam Frame VR Headset’s Features Make It a Terrible Purchase?
Valve is introducing new hardware for gamers. The company has announced a new version of the Steam Controller and a virtual reality (VR) headset called the Steam Frame. Both devices are designed to work with your Steam library, offering new ways to play your favorite games.
Understanding the New Steam Controller
The new Steam Controller is built to handle any game on Steam, even those not made for a gamepad. Its unique design might look different, but it is built for comfort and precision.
The most noticeable feature is the two large trackpads. These allow you to play games that usually require a mouse and keyboard. This is especially helpful for first-person shooters (FPS) and strategy games where you need accurate aim or cursor control.
Key features of the Steam Controller include:
- Advanced Controls: It has all the standard buttons (ABXY, D-pad, triggers, and bumpers) plus four extra grip buttons on the back for more control options.
- Smart Thumbsticks: The thumbsticks use magnets and have sensors that can feel your touch. This technology allows for very precise motion controls.
- Grip Sense: The controller knows how you are holding it. This “Grip Sense” feature can be used for things like quick aiming. You can turn it on or off simply by holding and releasing your finger.
- Detailed Feedback: The controller uses four special motors to create detailed vibrations. This means you can feel the game’s action, from a light tap to a strong rumble.
- Long Battery Life: A single charge provides up to 35 hours of playtime. It recharges wirelessly with a magnetic “Puck” that snaps onto the back. This Puck also lets you connect up to four controllers to your PC at once.
Exploring the Steam Frame VR Headset
The Steam Frame is a complete VR system built into a headset. It runs on SteamOS, which means it is a small, powerful computer for your head. You can stream any game from your Steam library to it, whether it’s a VR game or not.
This headset works by wirelessly connecting to your computer using fast Wi-Fi 6. This connection streams your games directly to the headset’s screens. It also has a microSD card slot if you want to store games directly on the device.
Key features of the Steam Frame include:
- Clear, Smooth Visuals: It has two high-resolution LCD screens, one for each eye. The screens can refresh very quickly (from 72 to 144 times per second), which helps make the experience feel smooth and reduces motion sickness.
- Inside-Out Tracking: Four cameras on the outside of the headset track your movements. You do not need to set up any external sensors in your room.
- Powerful Performance: The headset is powered by a modern Snapdragon processor and has 16GB of memory. This ensures that games and the system itself run without any slowdown.
- Good Audio: It has speakers built in near your ears and a dual microphone so you can talk with friends in multiplayer games.
- Standalone Power: The battery supports fast charging, and the device comes with its own controllers. You can also use the new Steam Controller with it.
Price and Release Date
Valve has not yet announced the price for the new Steam Controller or the Steam Frame. Both are expected to be available for purchase in early 2026.