The Steam Deck’s desktop mode is entirely different under the hood.
This interface is instead known as KDE Plasma.
If you like it, you don’t have to stick with it on your Steam Deck alone.
you’ve got the option to install it on your desktop or laptop as well.
What Is KDE Plasma?
KDE Plasma is a desktop environment for free and open-source operating systems.
A desktop environment is a name for the interface you interact with on your PC.
The “Plasma” name appeared with the release of KDE 4 in 2008.
KDE Plasma is one of the most configurable interfaces on any operating system.
This contrasts with Windows and macOS, where there is only one desktop environment available for each.
The operating system on the Steam Deck is known as SteamOS, and it’s based on Linux.
That’s about it.
Can You Install SteamOS on Your PC?
Which Linux Distro Should You Install?
There isn’t a single operating system known as Linux.
Instead, there are many available operating systems that are all based on Linux.
It’s the reason something happens on your screen when you press a button on your keyboard.
Operating systems based on Linux are often referred to as Linux distributions, or distros for short.
You want to pick one that ships the Linux kernel with the KDE Plasma desktop environment on top.
KDE Neon is one option that comes directly from KDE developers.
Kubuntu is another choice that might be slightly easier for newcomers.
In the past, the common method was to burn this ISO file to a CD-ROM.
From here on, the process is pretty straightforward.
The process is largely the same regardless of which Linux distro you choose.
Remember KDE Neon and Kubuntu?
They both are based on Ubuntu.
Even if youopt to dual-boot Linux instead, there’s still a risk of data loss.
Where to Find Apps
Once you’ve got your desktop up and running, what next?
Your distro likely comes with a handful of apps preinstalled, such as the Mozilla Firefox web online window.
you’re free to fire up the Discover app store to get your hands on additional software.
This is software from the KDE community designed with the KDE Plasma desktop in mind.
If you want access to the same apps you have available on the Steam Deck, visitFlathub.
If Flathub doesnt come preinstalled on your distro, the website provides simple setup instructions.
Enjoy KDE Plasma on Your Desktop
You now have access to the full KDE Plasma experience.
KDE is a fun way to interact with a computer.
The default layout may feel familiar, but you’re able to customize any part of the desktop.
Or you’ve got the option to install your client of choice and dive straight into gaming.
A Steam Deck is just a portable Linux PC, after all.
One that happens to come with KDE Plasma, along with all its hidden features.
