To use a non-Steam app in Gaming Mode, first install it in Desktop Mode, then add it to Steam as a non-Steam game. That library entry is only a shortcut: Steam does not install the app, deliver its updates, or treat it as proof of ownership.
Install an app in Desktop Mode
- Switch to Desktop Mode. Press the Steam button, open Power, and choose Switch to Desktop. Steam’s Desktop FAQ also describes using the desktop’s Return to Gaming Mode link to go back.
- Install the application. Open Discover Software Center and look for the app. Steam describes Discover as the graphical way to install software; it uses Flatpak, with apps and their content stored on writable drive space. Desktop Mode is still SteamOS, so software must support the Arch Linux environment. Check the app publisher’s instructions if it requires a separate installer or launcher.
The Deck’s controls work for Desktop Mode navigation while Steam is running. The trackpad can act as a mouse, and Steam+X opens the on-screen keyboard. A physical keyboard and mouse may help in some situations, but are not required for the basic workflow. See Steam’s basic-use guide.
Add the installed app to your Steam library
- While still in Desktop Mode, open Steam.
- Choose Add a Game in the lower-left corner, then select Add a Non-Steam Game.
- Select the installed application from the list and add it.
- Return to Gaming Mode and find the entry in the library’s non-Steam section, then launch it.
These steps add a way to launch the app from Steam; they do not move its installation into Steam. Steam Support explicitly says the process “will only add a shortcut to your game in the Steam client.” The app’s original source remains responsible for installation and updates, and adding it does not establish ownership on your Steam account. See Steam Support’s explanation.
Get a non-Steam app working
Check Linux support and app-specific setup
Steam’s basic-use guidance says software should support Arch Linux. A program appearing in Discover or in Steam’s non-Steam list does not by itself establish that it will run correctly. An app may also rely on an external launcher or additional setup; those requirements vary by app.
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- 1TB NVMe SSD
- 1280 x 800 HDR OLED display with premium anti-glare etched glass, 7.4" Diagonal display size up to 90Hz refresh rate
- Wi-Fi 6E
- 50Whr battery; 3-12 hours of gameplay (content-dependent)
- Carrying case with removable liner
Try a Steam Play compatibility tool
For an app that does not launch as expected, Steam documents selecting a compatibility tool such as Proton in that entry’s Properties > Compatibility settings. This is a per-game setting, not a guarantee: Steam does not claim that Proton will make every third-party app, launcher, or installer work. Its software troubleshooting guide also explains Steam Deck compatibility categories—Verified, Playable, Unsupported, and Unknown—for tested Steam titles. A rating for a Steam title does not settle compatibility for a separately installed copy or third-party launcher.
Address instability
- Install available system updates, then restart the Deck.
- Exit or disable other third-party applications installed through Desktop Mode and check whether the problem remains.
- If the non-Steam app is still unstable, contact that app’s support team.
These are Steam’s recommended troubleshooting steps for unstable non-Steam applications in its software guide.
Rank #2
- International (UK) Version
- 7.4” diagonal, HDR OLED, 1280 x 800 x RGB, up to 90Hz Refresh rate, High performance touch, <0.1 ms Response time, 1,000 nits peak brightness (HDR), 600 nits (SDR)
- SteamOS 3.0 (Arch-based)
- 512GB NVMe SSD, 16GB LPDDR5 on-board RAM (5500 MT/s quad 32-bit channels), microSD UHS-I supports SD, SDXC and SDHC
- 6 nm AMD APU, CPU: Zen 2 4c/8t, 2.4-3.5GHz (up to 448 GFlops FP32
Manage controls and storage
Adjust controls for the library entry
Open the app’s library entry to view or edit its controller layout, or browse community layouts. Steam documents per-game control settings, which can help when an app expects different inputs. Desktop Mode controls are available while Steam is running.
Choose internal or microSD storage
Use Steam > Settings > Storage to manage internal and connected storage. Steam says a microSD card must be formatted from SteamOS before use. Its guide describes UHS-I Class 3 or better as supported; UHS-II and UHS-III cards are expected to work, but their higher transfer speeds are not supported. The storage needed depends on the apps and their files, so check their requirements and available space rather than assuming a particular card capacity will be sufficient. See the Steam Deck basic-use guide.
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- 【Stunning 7.4" HDR OLED & 90Hz Motion】 Experience striking contrast and brilliant clarity with the all-new 7.4-inch HDR OLED display. Designed from the ground up for gaming, it features a 90Hz refresh rate for smooth motion and pure blacks. This handheld is capable of delivering an immersive visual experience, ensuring your Steam library looks better than ever with vibrant colors and amazing motion rendition.
- 【30-50% More Battery & Efficient Performance】 Play your favorites longer with up to 50% more battery life. By fitting a larger battery and a power-efficient OLED panel, this device provides extended gameplay sessions. It’s the perfect travel companion for long flights or commutes. The updated AMD APU ensures high-speed performance for AAA titles while maintaining incredible energy efficiency.
- 【3X Faster Downloads with Wi-Fi 6E】 Never wait for a game again. Equipped with Wi-Fi 6E, this Steam Deck OLED offers increased bandwidth and lower latency, delivering downloads up to 3 times faster than previous models. This ensures stable online play and rapid updates, making it the most reliable wireless gaming handheld for modern high-speed home networks.
- 【Responsive Touch & Enhanced Connectivity】 Enjoy a vastly improved touchscreen with higher fidelity and faster haptics. We’ve added a dedicated Bluetooth antenna to improve connections for multiple controllers. Whether using the built-in trackpads or the included external controller, this allows for precision play in everything from FPS to complex strategy games.
Remove or update a non-Steam app
Because the Steam library item is a shortcut, managing that entry and managing the app itself are separate tasks. Use the app’s original installation source or instructions to update or remove the application; removing its library shortcut alone is not the same as uninstalling its files. Steam does not provide updates for non-Steam apps through the shortcut.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- Valve is entering the gaming console marketplace with the new Steam Deck, a console geared towards PC gamers. The Steam Deck can be docked to a monitor, and used as a PC, or docked to a TV.
- Players can play a huge variety of games at any time with the comfort of a console and the freedom of a PC. Not anti-glare screen.
- Like the name suggests, the Steam Deck will include upgraded 1TB storage, and will include a carrying case. A micro SD slot will also enable expanded storage.
- Valve partnered with AMD to create a specialized APU optimized for handheld gaming, and Valve says the chip will deliver performance to run AAA gaming titles.
- The Steam Deck is outfitted with a 7-inch touchscreen, and two trackpads under the control sticks that allow gamers to operate games never designed outside of mouse and keyboard capabilities.
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