The announcement of the Steam Deck by Valve in July 2021 has generated a lot of excitement among gamers. This new handheld gaming PC is powered by AMD hardware and runs a custom version of Linux called SteamOS. Naturally, some gamers have raised concerns over the decision to use Linux instead of Windows. However, many have noted that Linux is an excellent choice for the Steam Deck. Here are some reasons why most people choose to stick with Linux on the Steam Deck.

1. Open Source Software

Linux is an open-source operating system, meaning that anyone can view, modify, and distribute its code. This provides several benefits, such as more transparency and flexibility than proprietary software like Windows. Because SteamOS is based on Linux, it has inherited this community-driven development model, which encourages innovation and collaboration. Additionally, open source software is generally more secure since vulnerabilities can be identified and patched faster.

2. Lightweight and Fast

The Steam Deck is a portable device, and as such, it requires an operating system that is lightweight, fast, and efficient. Linux has a reputation for running smoothly on older hardware and requiring fewer resources than Windows. SteamOS is designed to optimize performance for gaming, minimizing overhead and maximizing frame rates. This means that users can expect a smooth and responsive gaming experience, even on a device as small as the Steam Deck.

3. Compatibility with Steam

Steam is one of the most popular gaming platforms in the world, and it runs natively on Linux. This means that Linux users have access to the same library of games as Windows users. Valve has also implemented Proton, a compatibility layer that allows users to play games that are not natively supported on Linux. Because SteamOS is built on Linux, the Steam Deck is fully compatible with Steam and all the games that it offers.

4. Customization

Linux is highly customizable, allowing users to tweak every aspect of the operating system to their liking. This flexibility gives users more control over their device and can lead to a more enjoyable experience. SteamOS is no exception, and users can modify everything from the desktop environment to the kernel itself. This level of customization can be intimidating for some users, but for those who enjoy tinkering with their operating systems, Linux offers an unparalleled level of control.

5. Community Support

Linux has a vibrant and supportive community that is always willing to help users with any issues they may encounter. Because of the open-source nature of Linux, developers and users are constantly collaborating to improve the operating system and fix bugs. If a user encounters a problem, they can rely on the community to provide assistance quickly. This support is especially important for new users who may be unfamiliar with Linux.

In conclusion, Linux is an excellent choice for the Steam Deck due to its open-source nature, lightweight performance, compatibility with Steam, customization options, and community support. While some gamers may prefer Windows, most will find that Linux provides a superior gaming experience on a portable device like the Steam Deck. Valve has made a wise decision in choosing Linux for the Steam Deck, and users can look forward to a great gaming experience powered by a flexible and customizable operating system.