How to Get to Desktop Mode on Steam Deck 2023

The Steam Deck is a handheld gaming device developed by Valve Corporation that allows users to play their favorite PC games on the go. It runs on a custom version of SteamOS 3.0, which is based on Arch Linux. While the device is designed to be used in handheld mode, it also has a desktop mode that users can access to use it as a regular PC.

In this guide, we will discuss how to get to desktop mode on Steam Deck in detail.

Table of Contents

1 What is Desktop Mode on Steam Deck?
2 How to Access Desktop Mode on Steam Deck?
3 Conclusion

What is Desktop Mode on Steam Deck?

it’s desktop mode is essentially the same as using a regular PC. It allows users to access the full range of features and applications available on their Steam Deck. Users can launch and use any software they would typically use on their PC, such as a web browser, media player, or productivity software.

Accessing desktop mode on Steam Deck requires a bit of tweaking, but it can significantly expand the device’s capabilities.

How to Access Desktop Mode on Steam Deck?

To access desktop mode on Steam Deck, users will need to enable it by following a few steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Turn on your Steam Deck

The first step is to turn on your Steam Deck. Press and hold the power button until the Steam logo appears on the screen. Once the logo appears, release the power button.

Access the System Settings

It has powered on, users will need to access the system settings to enable desktop mode. To do this, click on the gear icon in the top right corner of the screen.

Select “System”

From the list of options that appear, select “System.” This will take you to the Steam Deck’s system settings.

Select “Desktop”

In the System Settings menu, select “Desktop” from the list of options. This will bring up the desktop settings for the Steam Deck.

Enable “Use Desktop Mode”

In the Desktop settings, users will need to enable “Use Desktop Mode.” This will allow users to switch between handheld and desktop mode on their Steam Deck.

Switch to Desktop Mode

Once “Use Desktop Mode” has been enabled, users can switch to desktop mode by pressing the Steam button and then selecting “Switch to Desktop” from the dropdown menu.

That’s it! Users can now access desktop mode on it and use it as a regular PC.

Additional Tips for Using Desktop Mode on Steam Deck

Here are a few additional tips for using desktop mode on Steam Deck:

To switch back to handheld mode, users can press the Steam button and select “Switch to Handheld” from the dropdown menu.
When in desktop mode, users can use the touchscreen to navigate and interact with applications. They can also connect a mouse and keyboard to the Steam Deck using Bluetooth or a USB-C adapter.
The Steam Deck’s desktop mode is based on Arch Linux, which means users can install and use any Linux software on their device.
Users can customize the desktop environment by installing a different window manager or desktop environment.

Conclusion

It’s desktop mode can significantly expand the device’s capabilities and allow users to use it as a regular PC. By following the steps outlined in this guide, users can easily enable desktop mode and switch between handheld and desktop modes on their Steam Deck. With a bit of tweaking, users can customize the desktop environment and install any Linux software they need.

Desktop mode is an essential feature for users who want to use it for more than just gaming. It allows users to use productivity software, browse the web, and perform other tasks typically reserved for desktop computers. Additionally, users can install any Linux software on their device, further expanding it’s capabilities.

Using it on it is also a flexible experience. Users can easily switch back and forth between handheld and desktop modes, depending on their needs. They can also customize the desktop environment by installing a different window manager or desktop environment.

When using desktop mode, users can navigate and interact with applications using the touchscreen, or connect a mouse and keyboard using Bluetooth or a USB-C adapter. This makes it easy to use it in any environment, whether at home, in the office, or on the go.