Valve has recently enhanced the experience for users of its Steam Deck OLED handheld gaming PC by releasing a new suite of Windows 11 drivers. This update, which debuted on August 15, 2024, aims to bolster the performance of the device’s AMD processor, improve wireless connectivity, and refine audio playback capabilities.
The Steam Deck, celebrated as the world’s most popular gaming handheld, continues to captivate gamers since its initial launch in February 2022. The introduction of an OLED display has only amplified its appeal. While Valve has consistently updated its Linux-based operating system, the company has also embraced the flexibility that allows users to install alternative operating systems, including the latest iterations of Windows 11. This adaptability is a testament to the Steam Deck’s design as a compact yet fully functional PC.
Windows 11 Installation: A Seamless Experience?
For those eager to dive into Windows 11, the process is relatively straightforward. Users can wipe the internal storage to install the operating system, although this requires a willingness to navigate some technical settings to optimize performance. However, it’s important to note that the experience may not match that of competitors like ASUS’ ROG Ally X or Lenovo’s Legion Go, which are built with Windows in mind from the outset.
Despite the recent driver update not introducing groundbreaking changes, it brings a collection of bug fixes that enhance stability, a welcome improvement for users. While downloading the updates may seem tedious, the payoff in terms of performance is often worth the effort.
Can We Dual-Boot Windows 11 with SteamOS Yet?
As for dual-booting Windows 11 alongside SteamOS, Valve has not yet provided an official solution. Transitioning to Windows 11 on a Steam Deck—whether the original LCD model or the newer OLED version—requires a complete wipe of the internal storage. Although a dual-boot wizard was anticipated to coincide with the release of SteamOS 3, the current version stands at 3.5.19, leaving users without this feature for the time being.
Looking ahead, there is speculation that dual-boot support may emerge with the anticipated Steam Deck 2, especially as Valve appears to be expanding official SteamOS compatibility to third-party gaming handhelds like the ASUS ROG Ally. This could pave the way for more robust support for Windows 11 installations on the original Steam Deck, though the future remains uncertain.
Regardless of Valve’s support for Windows 11, it seems unlikely that many portable gamers will favor it over the default SteamOS. The convenience and tailored experience of Valve’s operating system continue to hold strong appeal, even with the recent updates to the Xbox Game Bar. Personally, I maintain a bootable version of Windows 11 on a microSD card for those moments when Linux doesn’t meet specific needs. While a dedicated Windows 11 variant designed for gaming handhelds may seem like a distant dream, the ongoing support from Valve for Windows on the Deck is certainly appreciated, even if it comes with the usual post-installation tasks of removing unnecessary bloatware.