How to install SteamOS on a PC from scratch: is it worth it?

There are many incredible Linux distributions for all types of tasks, from those that look like Windows like ZorinOS to those that are security-oriented.

Although they are good options, when it comes to the gaming world, one of the most recommended is Valve’s SteamOS. This offers all the functionality you normally need, but with the bonus of game optimization with the Steam platform.

Do you want to give this operating system a try? You probably think that its installation is complicated as it is not as common as others, but it is relatively easy. In fact, there are two ways to do it and in this guide you will learn each of them.

What requirements do you need to install StemOS?

As with other systems, you need to meet the requirements minimum so that it can function correctly.

In this case, you need to have a USB of at least 4 GB and some 200 GB of storage available on your PC.

You must also have a Intel or AMD 64-bit processor4 GB of RAM or more, Nvidia or AMD GPU (Radeon 8500 or higher). These specifications will be enough.

How to install SteamOS step by step

There are two ways to install SteamOS, the automated one which is the simplest and the professional one that allows you to customize certain parameters.

Well, you have to go to the official SteamOS page to download ISO image. Simply accept the terms and click the opt-in button. Download SteamOS Deck Image.

The file you have obtained must be unzipped to obtain the .img. Now, you need to connect the USB drive and pass this element to that storage.

Once this is done, restart the PC and open the BIOS using F8, F11 o F12 repeatedly. When accessing the boot menu, select the option to boot from USB (UEFI).

Wait for the installation interface to load and choose Automated installation. It is important that you know that this action will delete everything from your computer, just like when you install Windows 10 or upgrade to Windows 11.

From here you don’t have to do anything, since the same system will be configured and installed automatically. The load will reach 100% and the computer will restart.

Of course, for the next step you will need a stable Internet connection for Steam to install and, once this is done, it will restart again so you can start use your new operating system just like a Steamdeck.

Regarding the option of Expert Installation It is basically the same, since you only have to choose the language, keyboard configuration and modify the partitions. The rest is as explained.

Is it worth using SteamOS?

You may be wondering if SteamOS is really worth using or if it makes any difference when playing from Windows on your PC. Well, Unfortunately the answer is no..

Although it is an operating system with advantages such as optimization because it does not use unnecessary processes to avoid consuming many resources and has compatibility with Windows games on Linux with the Proton layer, there are also several cons that you should consider.

The first and foremost thing is that it is an OS dedicated only to video games, so there are limitations in desktop mode and it’s not that intuitive.

At the same time, there are certain Compatibility issues with some titlessuch as Call of Duty: Warzone, Fortnite, Destiny 2, PUBG and other online multiplayers due to the anti-cheat system.

Now, if you are going to use it in a virtual machine or a mini PC so that it is solely a gaming platform, it is a good idea.

Many people opt for SteamOS to use it as an option to emulatebut as a day-to-day computer, it would not be very efficient and the performance difference is not big enough to make the leap.

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Tags: Steam, Video games, Operating systems, Tutorial