How to Replace SteamOS with Windows on Your Steam Deck for Enhanced Gaming Experience

The Steam Deck, priced from $499, is an impressive handheld gaming device that combines significant computing power in a portable form factor. Powered by Valve’s Linux-based SteamOS, it excels in many areas. However, users may encounter challenges with certain games, particularly those that are incompatible with the Proton compatibility layer or require anti-cheat systems like Fortnite.

If you’re aiming for broader game compatibility and increased access to Windows-exclusive services, this comprehensive guide will detail the steps necessary to install Windows on your Steam Deck.

Prerequisites for a Successful Installation

Before diving into the Windows installation process, ensure you have the following essential items:

1. Input Devices: A traditional keyboard and mouse are crucial, as the Steam Deck’s built-in input functions will not operate immediately.

   • It’s best to connect these peripherals via a USB-C dock.

2. Two USB Flash Drives:

   • One flash drive should be allocated for the Windows 11 installation files.
   • The second flash drive will be used for the necessary Windows drivers, which can be obtained directly from Valve.
3. Network Connectivity:
   • It is advisable to use a dock with built-in Ethernet or a USB Ethernet adapter for internet access, as some features may not function without proper network drivers installed.

Downloading Steam Deck Windows Drivers

To improve your Steam Deck’s functionality on Windows, download the required drivers from Valve’s dedicated Windows resources page. Here’s a quick guide to accessing the necessary drivers:

Steam Deck OLED Specific Drivers:

• APU Driver: Download Here
• SD Card Reader Driver: Download Here

General Steam Deck Drivers:

• APU Driver: Download Here
• WiFi Driver: Download Here
• Bluetooth Driver: Download Here
• Audio Drivers: Download both files:
  • Driver 1
  • Driver 2

Once you’ve downloaded these drivers, transfer them to your second USB flash drive, as this will be needed after Windows installation.

Downloading Windows 11

To get the Windows 11 operating system onto your Steam Deck, you will utilize Microsoft’s Windows 11 USB Creation Tool. Here’s how to do it:

1. Visit Microsoft’s Windows 11 Page and download the Windows 11 Installation Assistant.
2. Prepare Your First Flash Drive: Insert the flash drive designated for Windows installation and launch the Installation Assistant. Follow the prompts to create a bootable USB drive.
3. Boot from USB: After the process is complete, safely eject the USB and connect it to your Steam Deck.
   • Power down the Steam Deck, then hold the Power and “-” buttons simultaneously until you hear a sound.
   • Release the Power button while continuing to hold the “-” button until the bootloader loads.
   • In the bootloader, select the USB drive as your boot device.

Installing Windows 11 on Your Steam Deck

With your Steam Deck booted from the Windows 11 USB drive, follow these steps to complete the installation:

1. Begin Installation: Connect your keyboard and mouse and click ‘Next’ on the Windows 11 installation screen.
2. Enter a Product Key: If you have a product key, enter it. Otherwise, select ‘I don’t have a product key’ and proceed by clicking ‘Next’.
3. Select Installation Type: When asked about the installation type, choose ‘Custom: Install Windows only (advanced)’. Delete all existing partitions labeled under ‘Drive 0’ for the Steam Deck.
4. Finalize Installation: Once all partitions are removed, select the free space and click ‘Next’. Windows will manage the partitioning and start the installation process.

Sit back and allow Windows 11 to install; this can take several minutes.

Installing Windows Drivers on Steam Deck

After Windows 11 is set up, you’ll need to install the necessary drivers from your flash drive:

1. APU Driver: Double-click the setup.exe file to install the APU driver.
2. SD Card Reader Driver: Locate the relevant setup.exe file and run it.
3. WiFi Driver: Execute the install.bat file.
4. Bluetooth Driver: Run the installdriver.cmd file.
5. Audio Drivers: For audio files, right-click each and select ‘Show More Options’, then ‘Install’.

Follow these steps to ensure your Steam Deck can effectively utilize Windows 11 along with its gaming capabilities.

For further assistance, keep an eye on Valve’s resources page or related forums where additional tips and community support may be available.