2 Key Fixes Needed for Me to Ditch Windows 11 for SteamOS
▼ Summary
– The author considers switching from Windows 11 to Bazzite (a SteamOS clone) on their desktop gaming PC due to Windows 11’s frustrating UI bugs and errors for gaming.
– Microsoft’s upcoming Xbox PC app aims to improve gaming performance with a console-like UI, but the author doubts it will surpass SteamOS and plans to dual-boot it on their handheld.
– Bazzite works well on AMD hardware but has beta-level support for Nvidia GPUs with significant limitations, making it less ideal for Nvidia users.
– Discord on Bazzite functions for voice chat and screen sharing but has issues like streams randomly ending or appearing dark, which is a critical drawback for the author.
– Features like Quick Resume and a streamlined console-like UI make Bazzite appealing, but full Nvidia GPU support and improved Discord functionality are needed before fully replacing Windows 11.
Gaming on Windows 11 has left me frustrated enough to consider switching to SteamOS, but two critical fixes need to happen first. After testing Bazzite, a SteamOS-inspired OS, on my Asus ROG Ally, I’ve been impressed by its console-like simplicity. The streamlined interface eliminates many of the headaches I’ve faced with Microsoft’s platform, from random crashes to controller disconnects. Still, before making the full leap to my desktop, official Nvidia GPU support and polished Discord functionality must become a reality.
Microsoft’s upcoming Xbox PC app overhaul promises a more console-like experience, but I’m skeptical it will match Valve’s approach. SteamOS, particularly through Bazzite, already delivers a seamless gaming environment, especially for AMD users. Nvidia GPU support exists in beta, but with significant limitations. Until that improves, sticking with Windows remains the safer choice for high-performance rigs.
Discord is another sticking point. While voice chat works fine in Bazzite’s Game Mode, screen sharing is unreliable. Streams cut out unexpectedly or display nothing but a black screen. For multiplayer gamers who rely on sharing gameplay, this is a dealbreaker. If Valve and Discord collaborate to refine integration, it would remove a major barrier for players like me.
The appeal of SteamOS goes beyond just stability. Quick Resume, letting you pause and resume games instantly, feels like magic compared to Windows’ clunky multitasking. Pair that with a TV-friendly interface, and you’ve got a PC that rivals the convenience of a PS5 or Xbox Series X. My desktop hardware can already handle 4K gaming; why not pair it with an OS that makes jumping into games effortless?
Right now, Bazzite proves SteamOS’s potential, but Nvidia optimization and Discord fixes are non-negotiable before I fully abandon Windows. Once those gaps close, Microsoft’s OS will become a backup rather than my primary platform. For gamers tired of Windows’ quirks, that day can’t come soon enough.
(Source: techradar)
