Installing Windows 10 on a Steam Deck might seem daunting, but it’s a straightforward process. First, you need to prepare a Windows 10 installation USB. Next, you’ll boot your Steam Deck from the USB, follow the installation prompts, and eventually install the necessary drivers. This guide will walk you through each step to ensure a smooth installation.
How to Install Windows 10 on Steam Deck
In this section, we’ll break down each step required to install Windows 10 on your Steam Deck. By the end, you’ll have a fully functional Windows 10 system running on your device.
Step 1: Create a Windows 10 Installation USB
First, download the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool from Microsoft’s website and use it to create a bootable USB drive.
Ensure you have a USB drive with at least 8GB of space. Run the Media Creation Tool and follow the prompts to create the installation media. Remember, this process will erase all data on the USB, so back up important files beforehand.
Step 2: Enter Steam Deck’s BIOS
Power off your Steam Deck, hold the Volume Down button, and press the power button to enter the BIOS.
The BIOS, or Basic Input/Output System, is where you’ll change the boot order to prioritize your USB drive. Navigate using the D-pad or joystick to select the Boot Manager.
Step 3: Boot from the USB Drive
In the Boot Manager, select the USB drive to boot from it.
This step boots the Steam Deck from the USB, launching the Windows 10 installer. Be patient; it might take a few moments to load everything up.
Step 4: Install Windows 10
Follow the on-screen instructions to install Windows 10 onto your Steam Deck.
Choose your language, time, and keyboard settings. Then, select the partition where you want Windows installed. Usually, it’s best to install it on the primary partition, but beware—this will erase any existing data on that partition.
Step 5: Install Drivers
After Windows is installed, download and install the necessary drivers for your Steam Deck.
Drivers are crucial for your device to function correctly. Visit the Steam Deck support page to download the specific drivers for audio, GPU, and other hardware components.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Steam Deck will restart, and you can start using Windows 10. You’ll need to run some updates and install a few applications, but your new OS is ready to go.
Tips for Installing Windows 10 on Steam Deck
- Backup your data before starting the installation process.
- Make sure your Steam Deck is fully charged to avoid interruptions.
- Keep your USB drive handy in case you need to reinstall.
- Visit the official Steam Deck support page for the latest drivers and updates.
- Customize your Windows settings to optimize performance on your Steam Deck.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I dual-boot SteamOS and Windows 10 on my Steam Deck?
Yes, you can set up a dual-boot system, but it requires partitioning your drive and managing bootloaders carefully.
Will installing Windows 10 void my warranty?
No, installing Windows 10 on your Steam Deck will not void your warranty.
How do I return to SteamOS if I don’t like Windows 10?
You can reinstall SteamOS by booting from a SteamOS recovery image.
What if my Steam Deck doesn’t recognize the USB drive?
Ensure the USB drive is formatted correctly and try using a different USB port or re-creating the installation media.
Are there performance issues running Windows 10 on Steam Deck?
Some users report slight performance dips, but proper driver installation and system optimization can mitigate this.
Summary of Steps
- Create a Windows 10 Installation USB.
- Enter Steam Deck’s BIOS.
- Boot from the USB Drive.
- Install Windows 10.
- Install Drivers.
Conclusion
Installing Windows 10 on your Steam Deck opens up a world of possibilities, from running Windows-exclusive software to enhancing your gaming experience. While the process might seem complex, breaking it down into manageable steps makes it accessible even for beginners. Remember to back up your data and download the necessary drivers to ensure everything runs smoothly. If you encounter issues, don’t hesitate to refer to the tips and FAQs in this guide. Embrace the flexibility that comes with having a dual-boot system or fully transitioning to Windows 10 on your Steam Deck. Happy gaming and exploring!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.