Can you install SteamOS on a laptop or desktop PC?

Although Valve hasn’t explicitly stated it’s possible, in essence, you can indeed set up SteamOS on your personal computer.

There are some important points to keep in mind. Firstly, you use these images entirely at your own risk. Officially, they were designed specifically for the Steam Deck and Legion Go S. While there is some level of support for the ROG Ally and Legion Go, it’s not as extensive as for those two devices.

But as long as your system has AMD graphics, you should be good to go.

SteamOS is free from Valve exclusivity, and you can download it

Until quite recently, the authentic version of SteamOS was exclusively accessible on the Steam Deck, which was manufactured by Valve. Contrary to expectations, it’s not as open-source as some might have imagined due to its Linux foundation.

Now, it’s different. With the debut of the Lenovo Legion Go S as the first authorized partner hardware, Valve has made it possible to download SteamOS onto other compatible devices.

As an avid gamer, I’m thrilled to share that the Legion Go S and Steam Deck have my full backing as they offer optimal performance. The ROG Ally and original Legion Go are also on the list, albeit with slightly reduced support compared to the top two.

Downloading it yourself gives you the freedom to try it out on your personal computer, whether that’s a laptop or a desktop. Just remember, using it is entirely at your own risk, but it can certainly be done successfully.

Following our instructions, you can learn to set up SteamOS on ROG Ally and Legion Go. The initial process is universal; it involves downloading the image, followed by creating a USB installer using a flash drive and Rufus tool (which you can obtain from the Microsoft Store.)

From there, you need to introduce data into your computer’s Basic Input/Output System (BIOS), adjust the sequence so it boots from a USB drive first, then restart, and finally follow the on-screen prompts.

Only recommended if you run AMD hardware

SteamOS is designed primarily for optimal performance with AMD graphics. In comparison, Linux usually functions more smoothly with AMD graphics compared to NVIDIA.

Personally speaking, I’d suggest considering SteamOS installation primarily if your equipment boasts AMD Radeon graphics. Valve suggests this operating system is ideal for systems equipped with AMD graphics.

Not only does Radeon graphics technology extend beyond dedicated graphics cards, but if your system is powered by an AMD APU (Accelerated Processing Unit) that incorporates integrated graphics, you too can utilize it. Please note, however, that performance-wise, the integrated graphics won’t match up to a high-end graphics card, much like the Steam Deck. Nevertheless, with some adjustments, it’s possible to make it work.

Steam Machines aren’t quite back, but it’s closer than ever.

One appealing aspect of SteamOS lies in its user interface reminiscent of gaming consoles. While it offers a desktop mode accessible anytime, it primarily operates in gaming mode by default.

Although it might work well on smaller, home-based PCs such as the Steam Machines from the past, this user interface has been specifically tailored for use with a controller.

When setting it up on your computer for extended use, I’d recommend getting accustomed to the desktop mode and the KDE Plasma desktop environment, as these will be essential for a smooth user experience when interacting with a mouse and keyboard.

2025-06-05 17:39