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.
Latest about SteamOS
Here's how the new Xbox Ally compares to Steam Deck
Handheld It turns out that the Xbox Ally is rather comparable to the Steam Deck. Here's how these two gaming handhelds match up against each other.
Play Dying Light: The Beast on Steam Deck – it’s official
Gaming Continuing Techland's excellent support for the Steam Deck and handheld gaming PCs in general, Dying Light: The Beast will be Verified at launch.
You can now play Lost Ark on the Steam Deck and other SteamOS handhelds
Gaming Anticheat is the biggest block to games working properly on the Steam Deck, but not a total wall. Now, it looks like another popular title has had its anticheat enabled.
Lenovo’s Legion Go S runs better on SteamOS, and the superior version is now on sale
Deal SteamOS transforms the Legion Go S into a Steam Deck competitor—and now it’s $50 off just in time for 4th of July savings.
Legion Go S (SteamOS) improves upon Steam Deck, but with tradeoffs
Review I tested and used the SteamOS version of the Legion Go S gaming handheld. Here's what makes it a compelling choice for gamers. Our review.
Xbox Ally is not a Switch 2 competitor: It's a Steam Deck rival
Handhelds Analysts predict the Switch 2 will outsell all other gaming handhelds combined this year, but that's a non-issue for Xbox Ally. It's a Steam Deck competitor.
Massive Legion Go deal drops price to $499.99 — here's how it beats the Nintendo Switch 2
Deals 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.
