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.
SteamOS differs from Windows 11 because it is immutable, meaning the user can't modify or overwrite its core system files. Plus, while Valve's Proton translation layer can attempt to run any game or application designed for Windows, its stability is never guaranteed, and some core systems like anti-cheat software still suffer incompatibility — rendering some multiplayer games unplayable.
Latest about SteamOS
There are a lot of rumors swirling about a Steam Deck 2
Handhelds Valve has stated it is working on a Steam Deck 2, which isn't surprising after the success of the original gaming handheld.
Should you buy the Nintendo Switch 2 or Steam Deck?
Handhelds The Nintendo Switch 2 comes out on June 5, but should you get this handheld or a Steam Deck? I've compared these devices to help you figure that out.
The SteamOS-powered Legion Go S handheld's price has gone up
Handhelds The Legion Go S (SteamOS) handheld is releasing on May 25, 2025, but it's starting price is higher than initially revealed. This is what Lenovo told me when I asked about the price increase.
SteamOS is getting ready for non-Steam Deck handhelds
Handhelds We know SteamOS is coming to non-Steam Deck handhelds, and the latest preview release has the first work on making that happen.
Lenovo Legion Go S review: SteamOS could save us from disappointment
Review Lenovo's Legion Go S handheld boasts beautiful hardware and grand promises, but its performance and battery life lead to nothing but disappointment at this price.
7 essential Decky Loader plugins to make Steam Deck even better
Handhelds The Steam Deck is incredible, but thanks to Decky Loader plugins, it can be even better. Here are the 7 I recommend the most.
2 pros and 2 cons of SteamOS coming to non-Steam Deck handhelds
Handhelds SteamOS will soon officially be available on multiple third-party gaming handhelds, which is both good and bad.
I'm now tracking live player counts directly from my Steam Deck without using a web browser — here's how
Handhelds This new Decky Loader plugin for Steam Deck lets you track live player counts from SteamDB without needing to open a web browser.
