How to Install Windows on Steam Deck (Step-by-Step Guide)
The Steam Deck can run Windows. Valve officially supports it and provides drivers. The process takes 30–45 minutes and doesn’t have to replace SteamOS — you can dual-boot both.
Should You Install Windows on Steam Deck?
Good reasons: Xbox Game Pass, Windows-only anti-cheat games, using it as a light Windows PC with a dock.
Reasons not to: SteamOS already runs 95%+ of Steam games via Proton, better battery life, better sleep/wake, cleaner gaming experience.
Verdict: Install Windows only if you have a specific need — primarily Game Pass or a Windows-only title.
What You Need
- Steam Deck (any model)
- MicroSD card (64GB+) or spare SSD
- USB-C hub with USB-A port
- USB flash drive (16GB+)
- A Windows PC to prepare the installer
- Keyboard and mouse (needed during setup)
→ USB-C Hub for Steam Deck on Amazon
Step 1: Create Windows 11 Bootable USB
On a Windows PC, go to microsoft.com/software-download/windows11, download the Media Creation Tool, and create a bootable USB drive.
Step 2: Download Steam Deck Windows Drivers
Valve provides official drivers at help.steampowered.com. Download all drivers: APU, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, SD card reader, and audio. Copy them to your USB drive.
Step 3: Boot from USB
- Power off the Steam Deck completely
- Hold Volume Down + press Power button
- Boot menu appears — select your USB drive
Step 4: Install Windows
Follow the standard Windows 11 installer. Select your MicroSD card as the install target to keep SteamOS intact on the internal SSD.
Step 5: Install Drivers
After Windows boots, install each Valve driver in order: APU → Wi-Fi → Bluetooth → SD card reader → Audio. Restart when done.
Step 6: Install a Handheld UI (Recommended)
Playnite — free game launcher that aggregates Steam, Epic, GOG in a controller-friendly UI.
Handheld Companion — adds TDP controls and overlay similar to Steam’s Quick Access Menu.
Known Issues
| Feature | Status |
|---|---|
| Wi-Fi | ✅ Works (after driver install) |
| Bluetooth | ✅ Works (after driver install) |
| Touchscreen | ✅ Works |
| Audio | ✅ Works (after driver install) |
| Sleep/Wake | ⚠️ Less reliable than SteamOS |
| Battery life | ⚠️ Worse than SteamOS |
For using Deck like a PC without Windows, see our Steam Deck Desktop Mode guide. Need more storage? See the Steam Deck SSD Upgrade Guide.