Running Microsoft's Windows 7 on a Steam Deck in its upright orientation challenges the realms of innovation - a tech enthusiast has successfully booted the OS in this unconventional setup.
In a move that has sparked intrigue within the gaming community, some individual users have successfully installed Windows 7 on Valve's Steam Deck, a handheld gaming PC. However, widespread official support or comprehensive driver adaptation for the integrated AMD graphics remains elusive, leaving smooth gaming a challenge.
The Steam Deck, powered by a custom-made "Van Gogh" AMD Zen 2 APU, requires specific Linux drivers or adaptations for its components to function optimally. Running Windows typically involves challenges with driver compatibility and gaming performance, aspects that are still being explored by the community.
On July 13, 2025, Bob Pony, a tech enthusiast, was able to get Windows 7 to the desktop on a Steam Deck. While the integrated graphics of the Steam Deck is designed to work with Windows 10/11, Bob's achievement marked a significant step towards potential compatibility with older Windows versions.
However, it's important to note that Windows 7 isn't officially supported by Microsoft, and neither is Windows 8.1. The user, who prefers older versions of Microsoft's operating system, hasn't specified which modern version of Windows would work best with the Steam Deck.
Bob has shared his experience by uploading a video of Windows 8.1 on the Steam Deck on YouTube in 2022. Yet, it's unclear if anyone can play games on a Steam Deck with Windows 7 as intended.
The Steam Deck's screen is designed for portrait orientation, and its CPU is a regular x86_64 CPU. The user advises sticking with the Arch Linux spinoff for the Steam Deck, the operating system it usually runs on.
Meanwhile, the ASUS' Windows 11-based ROG Ally has taken over as Bob's go-to handheld device, indicating that the appeal of running older Windows versions on the Steam Deck might be limited.
Interestingly, Bob's favorite Windows flavor was Windows XP, paired with the "secret" Royale Noir theme. Windows 7, a popular operating system that some consider the most beloved version in Microsoft's history, presents an intriguing possibility for the Steam Deck community, but its practicality and safety remain to be seen.
It's not recommended to install Windows 7 or Windows 8.1 on a Steam Deck due to potential issues with driver compatibility and gaming performance. The Steam Deck's Linux-based operating system continues to be the recommended choice for optimal performance and user experience.
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