Is the Steam Deck just a PC?

The default Steam Deck experience requires a Steam account (it's free!). Games are purchased and downloaded using the Steam Store. That said, Steam Deck is a PC so you can install third party software and operating systems.

Does the Steam Deck work as a PC?

In the Steam Deck's desktop environment, you will find everything you need to use the system like a PC. Some applications are pre-installed, while others can be added later. To access your favorite websites, the Steam Deck has a browser already built in.

Is the Steam Deck a console or PC?

Although the Steam Deck is one of the most approachable and user-friendly gaming PCs of all time, being a PC means it comes with annoyances you don't get with consoles.

Is the Steam Deck just a portable PC?

The Steam Deck is technically a handheld PC, which means it can theoretically support every game in Valve's library, though this isn't the case out of the box.

Can you hook a Steam Deck to a TV?

With a USB-C to HDMI adapter, you can connect your Steam Deck to a TV or monitor, just as you would any other console.

Yes, You Can Use the Steam Deck Like A Real PC! It's Awesome! Desktop Mode Hands-On

What else can you do with Steam Deck?

Naturally the Deck handles Steam games the best, but there's nothing stopping you from diving into the Linux desktop and installing third-party titles. It's a must if you've got a sizeable collection on other storefronts like the Epic Store or Good Old Games.

Can you install PC games on Steam Deck?

The Steam Deck now supports game transfers on your local network, allowing you to copy installed games from your PC to the Steam Deck without having to redownload them over the internet.

Which is better Steam Deck or Switch?

But again, if you are first and foremost a Nintendo gamer, then stick with the Switch if you don't already have one. If you're primarily a PC gamer and own all or most of your games on Steam, then the Steam Deck makes more sense.

Is Steam Deck better than Xbox?

Both machines are based around the same AMD technologies - Zen 2 CPUs paired with RDNA 2 GPUs. The Steam Deck is substantially pared-back relative to its stronger console cousin, but critically it is targeting a much lower output resolution.

Can Steam Deck run Windows programs?

In addition to playing most of their Steam library on the go, players can browse the internet and run programs from its Linux-based OS. In an update released in spring 2022, the Steam Deck allows players to install and run Windows OS 10 and 11 on the device.

Can I install Windows on Steam Deck?

Valve's Steam Deck console is essentially a handheld PC, which means there is nothing stopping you from installing an alternative operating system (OS).

Can you install apps on Steam Deck?

You can also download apps to get more out of your Steam Deck. I've already mentioned web browsers, but you can download Discord for chatting or OBS for streaming.

Can stream deck play AAA games?

We partnered with AMD to create Steam Deck's custom APU, optimized for handheld gaming. It is a Zen 2 + RDNA 2 powerhouse, delivering more than enough performance to run the latest AAA games in a very efficient power envelope.

Is Steam Deck cheaper than a PC?

The Steam Deck is much cheaper

The two more expensive options have faster storage and come with extras like a carry case, an anti-glare screen, and exclusive community profile extras. You aren't going to get a desktop gaming PC of any calibre at those sorts of prices.

Will Steam Deck run most games?

While many games run great on Deck out of the box, this shift means there are some games that, while they may be great on a desktop PC, aren't a great experience on Steam Deck. We want it to be easy for you to find great gaming experiences on Steam Deck, so we've designed a system to do just that.

Will the Steam Deck last?

According to Valve's official estimates, the Steam Deck gets an unusually wide range of between two to eight hours of game time. However, some users (including myself) have found that in some situations they get even less than that, with the device dying after less than 90 minutes.

Is Steam Deck underpowered?

Despite having way more horsepower than the Nintendo Switch, the Steam Deck still feels underpowered and just enough to run games at decent frame rates, but nothing more.

How long does Steam Deck battery last?

The battery has a 40Wh capacity, which is pretty good for something this size. But the AMD APU inside is pretty powerful, which means, in the right circumstances, it can destroy the battery life. Valve's initial claims are a vague 2-8 hours, but it's perfectly possible to drain it in less than two hours.

Can I play old PC games on Steam Deck?

While the Steam Deck is aimed at gamers who want to play newer titles on the go, the platform is just as capable of powering retro games. To be fair, thanks to a resurgence of video game preservation, Steam naturally offers plenty of old titles, most of which are compatible with the Steam Deck.

Can Steam Deck play Xbox games?

This workaround essentially adds a modified Microsoft Edge shortcut to your Steam library, letting you access your Xbox Game Pass games on your Steam Deck. Switch back to Gaming Mode, select Microsoft Edge in the Steam library and log in with your Microsoft account to enjoy your favorite games.

Can Steam Deck play non Steam games?

Yes you can. On the desktop, go to the Steam client, and click the “add a game” button in the lower left corner, click 'add a Non-Steam game', then find the application you installed in the list. This app will now show up in the Deck UI library under the 'non-steam' tab.

What can the Steam Deck not do?

Linux's lack of certain security features means that Destiny 2, Halo Infinite, and games that use similar anti-cheat programs aren't compatible with the Steam Deck. Games that use their own launchers on top of Steam, like EA Origin, also won't work on the Steam Deck.

Is 512GB Steam Deck worth it?

If your budget can handle it, go for the $649 512GB Deck because it's undoubtedly the best. And unless you're cash strapped, avoid the $399 64GB model due to its slower run and boot speeds. All that said, you're likely to enjoy whichever Steam Deck you decide to buy. Valve has created something special.

Is 64GB Steam Deck worth it?

If you're planning on only playing indie games or emulated games up to PS1, the 64GB is more than enough storage. Meanwhile, if you've got the money saved and don't want to think about storage ever again, go with the 512GB version.