Background: It’s now possible to run Windows 10 on the Steam Deck, though the setup comes with notable caveats. Valve recently released Windows drivers for the Steam Deck, enabling Microsoft’s operating system to operate on the handheld. Early hands-on videos have already surfaced, offering initial impressions from reviewers and enthusiasts.
One of the most visible critics has been Linus Sebastian from Linus Tech Tips. He pointed out several rough edges in Windows on the Steam Deck. During his video a security warning repeatedly appeared on screen and could not be dismissed easily, and the overall user interface did not feel polished. This highlighted the fact that the Windows experience can be less than seamless on a device that was originally designed around SteamOS and native game streaming.
In terms of performance, the reviewer noted that Windows could run games, but frame rates and responsiveness often lagged behind expectations. Some titles required manual configuration, and certain features such as Big Picture mode tended to encounter errors. The comparison tests included popular titles like Hitman 3, Elden Ring, and a game referred to as Eternal Doom, illustrating a range of outcomes across genres and engines.
Another channel, Linux For Everyone, reported a different perspective: Cyberpunk 2077 appeared to run more smoothly on SteamOS, with frame rates roughly 5 to 15 frames per second higher than on Windows 10 in similar conditions. This suggested that Valve’s operating system optimization could offer tangible advantages for some modern titles, at least in synthetic or controlled tests.
Conversely, The Phawx weighed in with a more favorable view of Windows on the Steam Deck for certain games. He observed that titles like Destiny 2 and Halo Infinite performed well enough to warrant continued use of Windows, and for players seeking to access games not supported on SteamOS, Windows could provide a wider library and fewer compatibility concerns.
Readers and viewers are encouraged to share their own experiences in the comments. It is worth noting that Blizzard recently announced a policy change that affects players in certain regions, which has implications for how some titles are accessed and moderated in different markets. This broader context underscores the tension between platform compatibility, regional policy decisions, and overall user experience when running Windows on non-traditional hardware like the Steam Deck.