Have you ever wished you had a gaming console? If so, and you never got around to buying one, then SteamOS might be a suitable solution for you. This operating system built specifically for gaming has the power to turn your computer into a gaming console. While it won’t physically shrink your PC into a handheld device, it will shift its focus entirely to gaming.
Your computer turns into a gaming device from the moment you turn it on. You will see a gaming menu that you can operate using a remote, handheld controller, or mouse and keyboard. There is also dedicated desktop mode for regular use.
SteamOS features Proton, which is a tool designed to enable running Windows games on Linux operating systems. The latest version of SteamOS is the most optimized of all the versions.
What Are the Key Features of SteamOS?
SteamOS is an operating system developed on the basis of Linux. It was built specifically for gaming, with special advanced tools to improve gameplay. The interface looks like a gaming console, effectively turning your computer into a gaming device.
One standout feature of SteamOS is that it offers the gaming console experience from the screen of your computer. If you’re familiar with Steam, SteamOS will make you feel right at home. The operating system immediately boots into a console interface, so you can throw your keyboard and mouse away and start playing.
If some of your favorite games only run on Windows, you won’t be limited by that. SteamOS employs Proton to ensure compatibility and allow for Windows-exclusive games to run smoothly. SteamOS is not planning on stopping there, either, as it receives continuous updates that improve the user experience bit by bit. Updates occur automatically, so you do not need to intervene and install them manually.
Because of its system architecture, SteamOS features automatic access to the Steam library of games. In addition to that, users are welcome to install games and applications from other ecosystems. As a bonus, SteamOS can function as a regular operating system for browsing the internet, managing files, and other computer tasks.
Is SteamOS Free to Use?
Yes, SteamOS is a free operating system. You can acquire and install it for free, without any licensing fees. The operating system is Linux-based.
Which Platforms Support SteamOS?
SteamOS is an operating system, so installing it is not the same as installing any computer application. The operating system supports a variety of devices in the Steam Deck family, including some handheld devices and Steam Machines. The latest updates also allow SteamOS to work on AMD-powered handheld devices and desktop computers.
What Are the Best Alternatives to SteamOS?
SteamOS is an excellent choice for when you’re looking for a gaming operating system. If you’d like to explore other alternative operating systems, there are some to choose from.
Bazzite is quite similar to SteamOS. It is an operating system built specifically for gaming. It is also Linux-based. With its help, you can turn your desktop computer, gaming device, or tablet into a full-blown gaming console. The operating system is equipped with game launchers like Steam and Lutris, though you can access other platforms as well. The system is read-only, which makes it difficult to break and prevents malfunctions. Bazzite is an excellent choice for all gamers.
CachyOS is not a gaming-specific operating system. Unlike SteamOS and Bazzite, it focuses on productivity and performance. That, in turn, can boost your gaming experience as well. The operating system is based on Arch Linux, built to be faster than the operating systems that came before. Unlike regular Arch Linux, CachyOS boasts an intuitive installation process that is accessible even for inexperienced users. Gamers will appreciate Proton support and its portable edition for gaming devices.
Pop!_OS is a free and open-source operating system based on Linux. This operating system is designed specifically for programmers and scientists, so it may not be accessible to regular users. The goal of Pop!_OS is to boost performance. Everything about it is made for speed and workflow optimization.
