However, as the Steam Deck is a computer, you are free to install different operating systems. Windows could be your best choice if you wish to play games from other retailers in addition to Steam titles. Additionally, installing Windows ensures that Windows-specific games will run without any Proton compatibility concerns. Although keeping in mind the Steam Deck’s constrained specifications, such titles should be just as compatible as they are on the top gaming PCs. Additionally, if you use Windows, you’ll be able to play Xbox Game Pass games on the Steam Deck if you’re a member of that service. So below the Steps to install Windows 11 and 10 on Steam Deck.
Steps to install Windows 11 and 10 on Steam Deck
Step 1: Download Windows 11 installation media to another PC and run the utility. Run the installation media tool and, when asked which media you wish to use, select “USB flash drive”. Make sure your USB drive is connected to the PC and then select it. Step 2: Once the Windows 11 installation media tool has finished, remove the USB drive from your drive and connect it to the Steam Deck. Step 3: Power off the Steam Deck if it’s not already off. Step 4: Select the USB drive from the list of boot options. Step 5: Windows installation will launch. Note that it will be vertically oriented. Choose your language options, then tap next. Step 6: Select Install Now. Step 7: Activation will appear. Enter a Windows product key if you have one, then select Next. Alternatively, select I don’t have a product key. Step 8: You’ll be given a choice of Windows versions. We recommend selecting Windows 11 Home. Windows 11 Pro should also work without issue. Step 9: Accept the license agreement and then select Next. Step 10: The next screen provides an option to upgrade from a prior version of Windows or install a new version of Windows. Select Install Windows Only. Step 11: The next step asks where you want to install Windows. The Steam Deck ships with numerous default partitions, none of which are configured to allow a Windows install. Delete Drive 0 Partition 8, the largest, to make room. Step 12: Select Drive 0 Unallocated Space, then select New. A field will appear to let you change the size of the partition. There’s no need to change the size, so select Apply. Step 13: You should now see Drive 0 Partition 9 available. Select it, then tap Next. Step 14: Windows installation will begin. This will take some time to complete. The Steam Deck will reboot as part of this process. Step 15: You will next see the region selection for Windows 11. Select your region and then tap Yes. Step 16: You will next see a keyboard layout input selection. Select your layout and click Yes. Step 17: You’ll be asked if you want to select a second keyboard layout. Most won’t need to do this for the Steam Deck, so select Skip. Step 18: Now you’ll need to connect to a network. Select a wired or wireless network and then tap Next. Step 19: Once Windows 11 installation reappears, you’ll need to set up your account. This involves entering a username, password, security questions, and privacy settings. Proceed through these steps. Step 20: You will now see the Windows desktop but we’re not done yet! The screen is still vertically oriented, so that will need to be fixed. Step 21: That’s it! Windows is now installed on your Steam Deck. You can download programs, including Steam, and install them just as if using Windows on any other PC.
Final Words
It’s crucial to keep in mind that Windows on the Steam Deck is currently in its early stages. Regular updates and new drivers will be released. Just switch off your Steam Deck, remove the SD Card, and update every file before reinstalling it. Of course, you may also install them directly from the Steam Deck.
