SteamOS is a fork (modified version) of a Linux distribution (distro) built by Valve for its Steam Deck handheld, previously based on Debian but switching to Arch Linux when the portable device launched in 2022. Its UI is practically identical to Steam's "Big Picture" mode, designed initially to simplify PC gaming on large-screen televisions, but it can switch to a traditional desktop UI based on KDE Plasma.
However, it's now optimized for various screen sizes and focuses on supporting controller inputs rather than a traditional mouse and keyboard. While SteamOS is still primarily built for AMD hardware, starting with the Steam Deck and recently expanding to the Lenovo Legion Go S, it can be compatible with NVIDIA and Intel Arc graphics with mixed success.
SteamOS differs from Windows 11 because it is immutable, meaning the user can't modify or overwrite its core system files. Plus, while Valve's Proton translation layer can attempt to run any game or application designed for Windows, its stability is never guaranteed, and some core systems like anti-cheat software still suffer incompatibility — rendering some multiplayer games unplayable.
Latest about SteamOS
Massive Legion Go deal drops price to $499.99 — here's how it beats the Nintendo Switch 2
Deal The Nintendo Switch 2 is out of stock, but the Legion Go is $200 off and may be a better handheld for you.
Can you install SteamOS on your regular Windows laptop or desktop?
Software You can now put SteamOS on other handhelds like the ROG Ally and Legion Go, but what about a regular laptop or desktop PC? We have some answers.
SteamOS is here for ROG Ally and Legion Go handhelds
Handhelds You can easily install SteamOS on your ROG Ally or Legion Go Windows gaming handhelds by following our step-by-step instructions. It doesn't take very long either.
Microsoft was right to park the Xbox handheld for Kennan and Windows 11 PC gaming
Xbox SteamOS has presented Windows with its first credible challenge in decades, and Microsoft needs to rise to the occasion.
First direct comparisons suggests SteamOS destroys Windows 11 for gaming
PC Gaming The first direct and natively supported comparison between identical Windows 11 and SteamOS gaming hardware is here. And it's pretty much a bloodbath for Microsoft.
Dune: Awakening gets a big boost for Steam Deck owners
Gaming Anticheat is the biggest issue for anyone playing games on Steam Deck, but fortunately, signs all point to good for Dune: Awakening.
SteamOS is now available on non-Steam Deck handhelds
Handhelds The latest version of SteamOS has finally made it available to other handhelds, including the partnered Lenovo Legion Go S, the original Legion Go and the ROG Ally.
Here are the differences between the Legion Go S (SteamOS) and Steam Deck
Handhelds Steam Deck is no longer the only SteamOS handheld on the market. Here's how the Legion Go S compares to it.
