Whether you’re fresh out of the box or already a few hours into your library, getting the most out of your Steam Deck requires a few pro tips. From performance tweaks to battery-saving hacks, here’s what every new owner should know.
1. Enable Performance Overlay
Quickly view your FPS, CPU/GPU usage, and more.
- Go to Settings > Performance > Overlay Level and set it to your desired detail level.
2. Limit Framerate for Better Battery
Cap your framerate at 30 or 40 FPS on some games to double battery life without a huge drop in playability.
3. Use ProtonDB Before Installing Games
Check ProtonDB.com to see if a Windows game runs well on Steam Deck.
4. Install Emudeck for Retro Gaming
Want SNES, GameCube, or PS2 games? EmuDeck automates emulator setup on the Deck with minimal hassle.
5. Get a MicroSD Card – But Pick the Right One
Not all cards are equal. Look for U3 / A2-rated microSDs (like Samsung EVO Select or SanDisk Extreme) for faster load times.
6. Learn Desktop Mode
Hold the power button > Switch to Desktop. It turns the Deck into a mini Linux PC—great for installing third-party launchers or apps.
7. Map Controls with Steam Input
In the game settings, remap buttons, add gyro aiming, or use community layouts tailored to each game.
8. Use Cloud Save Sync
Double-check that your games support Steam Cloud so progress carries across devices or reinstalls.
9. Customize the On-Screen Keyboard
You can theme and resize the keyboard for easier input in Desktop Mode. Look in Settings > Keyboard.
10. Turn Off Wi-Fi When Not Needed
Wi-Fi constantly scans for connections, draining power. Switch it off when you’re playing offline to save battery.
Conclusion:
The Steam Deck is powerful, flexible, and fun—but also a little wild west. These tips help you tame the beast and enjoy your games longer, smoother, and smarter. Got your own pro tip? Drop it in the comments!
