Head-to-head · PC Game Launchers
Steam vs Epic Games Store
Steam leads on 2 checks, Epic Games Store on 0, and 4 are even. Who comes out ahead on the 6 yes/no, price and count checks where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreSteam · 9.4/10
- Free planboth
- Most featuresSteam · 4 of 5
Steam scores higher on our rubric for pc game launchers: 9.4 against 8.7 out of 10; our editors rank them #1 and #4.
Steam offers third-party game import; Epic Games Store doesn't. Steam offers mod integration; Epic Games Store doesn't.
Steam is the better fit for PC gamers seeking a free, feature-rich game library. Epic Games Store is the better fit for players seeking free games.
- Steam fits best
PC gamers seeking a free, feature-rich game library
- Epic Games Store fits best
Players seeking free games
Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.
Side by side
| Feature | Steam 9.4/10 Visit ↗ | Epic Games Store 8.7/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 9.4 | 8.7 |
| Ranking | #1 in PC Game Launchers | #4 in PC Game Launchers |
| Best for | PC gamers seeking a free, feature-rich game library | Players seeking free games |
| Pricing model | Free | Free plan + paid |
| Starting price | Free plan | Free plan |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Deployment | Desktop, Mobile | Cloud, Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android |
| Features Steam 4/5 · Epic Games Store 3/5 | ||
| Cloud saves | ✓ | ✓ |
| Offline mode | ✓ | ✓ |
| Subscription catalog | Not checked yet | ✓ (best) |
| Third-party game import | ✓ (best) | — |
| Mod integration | ✓ (best) | — |
| Specs | ||
| Supported OS | Windows | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
| Our verdict | Steam brings a digital game storefront and library together with tools for downloading, updating, and launching games. Its PC client supports Windows, macOS, Linux, and SteamOS, while iOS and Android apps provide mobile companion access.… Read the review → |
Epic Games Store combines a digital storefront with a launcher for browsing, purchasing, and managing games and downloadable content. It suits players who want to claim weekly free titles and keep owned games in one library, as well as… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
Steam — where it wins
- Free client with Windows, macOS, and Linux support
- Workshop mods, community features, and non-Steam shortcuts
- Cloud saves and offline play for supported games
Where it doesn't
- Games and other content may cost extra
- Cloud saves and offline play depend on the game and its configuration
- Mobile apps are companions, not listed as desktop game platforms
Epic Games Store — where it wins
- Weekly free game giveaways add titles to your library.
- Organize games with filters, favorites, and collections.
- Cloud saves and offline play are available for supported games.
Where it doesn't
- Individual games, add-ons, and some subscriptions cost extra.
- Cloud saves, offline play, and achievements depend on the game.
- No third-party game imports or mod integration.
- Steam9.4/10 · Free plan
A free game library and launcher with community tools, mods, cloud saves, and offline play.
Visit SteamFull verdict → - Epic Games Store8.7/10 · Free plan
A free launcher for claiming games and managing a library across PC, Mac, and mobile.
Try Epic Games StoreFull verdict →
More comparisons
- Steam vs GOG Galaxy
- Steam vs Xbox app for PC
- Steam vs LaunchBox
- Steam vs Lutris
- Steam vs EA app
- Steam vs Ubisoft Connect
- GOG Galaxy vs Epic Games Store
- Xbox app for PC vs Epic Games Store
All PC game launchers comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update




