How to Install Windows on Your Steam Deck: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Install Windows on Your Steam Deck: A Comprehensive Guide. The Steam Deck has garnered significant attention as a versatile handheld gaming device, running on SteamOS by default. However, if you wish to expand the capabilities of your Steam Deck and explore a wider range of games, installing Windows on your device is a viable option. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through installing Windows on your Steam Deck, providing detailed steps and valuable insights to help you unlock a new world of gaming possibilities.

Method 1: Installing Windows on the Internal SSD

Installing Windows directly on the Steam Deck’s internal SSD offers optimal performance and convenience, enabling seamless access to a vast library of games. Follow the steps below to embark on this installation journey:

Step 1: Create a Windows Installation Drive

To initiate the installation process, you will need a Windows installation drive. Here’s how you can create one:

1. Visit the official Microsoft website or use a Windows-based PC to create a Windows 10 or 11 installation drive.
2. Follow the instructions provided to create the installation media on a USB drive.

Step 2: Booting from the USB Drive

Once you have your Windows installation drive ready, follow these steps to boot from the USB drive on your Steam Deck:

1. Power off your Steam Deck.
2. Connect the USB drive to your Steam Deck using a USB Type-C flash drive or a USB-C hub.
3. Press and hold the Volume Down button on your Steam Deck.
4. Power on the system while holding the Volume Down button to access the boot menu.
5. Using the D-Pad or touchscreen controls, select the “EFU USB Device” option from the boot menu.
6. The Steam Deck will boot up, and the Windows installer will start.

Step 3: Language and Edition Selection

In this step, you must choose the language and edition of Windows you wish to install on your Steam deck.

1. Select your preferred language from the available options.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions to choose the edition of Windows you want to install.

Step 4: Installation and Configuration

Now, it’s time to proceed with the installation and configuration of Windows on your Steam Deck:

1. Agree to the terms and conditions provided by Microsoft.
2. Select the installation location as the Steam Deck’s internal SSD.
3. Follow the prompts to complete the installation process.

Step 5: Installing Steam Deck Drivers

After successfully installing Windows, you need to install the Steam Deck drivers to optimize the performance of your device:

1. Download the Steam Deck Windows drivers from the official Steam Deck website.
2. Copy the downloaded drivers into your Windows installation.
3. Install the Steam Deck drivers, ensuring compatibility and seamless integration.

Method 2: Running Windows from a MicroSD Card

If you prefer to maintain the SteamOS on your Steam Deck and experiment with Windows as a secondary option, running Windows from a microSD card provides a flexible and reversible solution. Follow the steps below to embark on this alternative installation method:

Step 1: Preparing the MicroSD Card

To run Windows from a microSD card, you will need to prepare the card and gather the necessary tools:

1. Obtain a microSD card with a minimum capacity of 64GB, preferably supporting UHS-I and A2/U3 speeds for optimal performance.
2. Acquire a card reader or a USB-C dock with a card reader to facilitate the installation process.
3. Download Rufus, a tool that enables the creation of a bootable microSD card with the Windows To Go version of the operating system.

Step 2: Creating a Bootable MicroSD Card

Now, let’s proceed with creating a bootable microSD card with Windows To Go:

1. Launch Rufus on your Windows-based PC.
2. Select the microSD card as the target device.
3. Choose the Windows ISO file you obtained earlier.
4. Configure the necessary options in Rufus, such as the partition scheme and file system.
5. Initiate the creation process and wait for Rufus to complete the task.

Step 3: Copying Steam Deck Windows Drivers

To ensure a seamless Windows experience on your Steam Deck, you need to copy the Steam Deck Windows drivers onto the microSD card:

1. Download the Steam Deck Windows drivers from the official Steam Deck website.
2. Transfer the downloaded drivers to a convenient location on your computer.
3. Insert the microSD card into your computer’s card reader or USB-C dock.
4. Copy the Steam Deck Windows drivers into the root directory of the microSD card.

Step 4: Booting from the MicroSD Card

Now, it’s time to boot your Steam Deck from the microSD card:

1. Power off your Steam Deck.
2. Insert the microSD card into the Steam Deck’s microSD card slot.
3. Power on the system, ensuring the microSD card is selected as the boot device.
4. Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed with the Windows installation.

Step 5: Installing Steam Deck Drivers

After successfully installing Windows on your microSD card, it’s crucial to install the Steam Deck drivers for optimal performance:

1. Download the Steam Deck Windows drivers from the official Steam Deck website.
2. Copy the downloaded drivers into your Windows installation on the microSD card.
3. Install the Steam Deck drivers to ensure compatibility and maximize your gaming experience.

Conclusion

Following the step-by-step instructions outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can successfully install Windows on your Steam Deck, expanding its capabilities and unlocking a broader spectrum of games. Whether you choose to install Windows on the internal SSD or run it from a microSD card, the process outlined here ensures a smooth and efficient installation, empowering you to utilize your Steam Deck’s potential fully.