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
Devs reject SteamOS support over cheating concerns
News Many people love SteamOS, but anti-cheat is its biggest remaining hurdle.
Valve already gambled on Steam Machine mini PCs a decade ago
PC Gaming The Steam Machine concept isn't new, and OEMs already tried Valve's vision in 2014. Could it be different this time around?
Will SteamOS ever have better anti-cheat support?
PC Gaming Playing some of the most popular multiplayer games on SteamOS isn't possible thanks to the anti-cheat software. But will it ever get better with the Steam Machine on the way?
The cube is back: Valve officially unveils the Steam Machine for 2026
PC Gaming Steam Machine is back! Valve has brought its console-like PC back from the dead, and this time, it's a lot more promising. Here's what we know so far.
Revisiting the Steam Deck in 2025 to see if it holds up
Review The Steam Deck isn't far off being four years old now, and in a world with many other handhelds to choose from, how has it held up?
4 reasons to put SteamOS on a Windows handheld (and 3 reasons not to)
Handhelds The Steam Deck's interface is amazing, but its hardware is relatively weak. You can have the best of both worlds by putting SteamOS on a Windows handheld.
Linux breaks 3% on Steam as Windows share slightly dips
News Linux is now used by 3% of gamers on Steam, as handheld PCs and rising Windows frustrations fuel fresh momentum.
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.
