SteamOS, found on devices like the Steam Deck and Steam Machines, is designed to launch into a simplified "Gaming Mode" by default. If you frequently use your device as a desktop computer, you can bypass this interface to boot directly into the KDE Plasma desktop environment.
How to Force Desktop Mode at Startup
These steps have been confirmed working as of SteamOS 3.8.24. Ensure you save any open work before proceeding, as the system will reboot to apply these changes.
- Press the Steam button on your device.
- Navigate to the Power menu and select Switch to Desktop.
- Once in Desktop Mode, open the Konsole terminal application.
- To set your system to boot into the modern Wayland-based desktop, enter the following command and press Enter:
steamos-session-select plasma-wayland-persistent
Alternatively, if you require the older X11 session, use:steamos-session-select plasma-x11-persistent
If you do not have a physical keyboard connected, press STEAM + X to bring up the on-screen keyboard within Desktop Mode.
How to Revert to Gaming Mode
If you decide you prefer the standard interface, you can restore the default behavior at any time. Simply open the Konsole terminal while in Desktop Mode and enter the following command:
steamos-session-select gamescope
The system will return to the Gaming Mode interface upon your next boot.
Performance Considerations
While Desktop Mode provides a full Linux experience, Gaming Mode is specifically optimized to prioritize game performance by limiting background processes. If you choose to keep your device in Desktop Mode, keep in mind that you may encounter performance differences compared to the standard Gaming Mode environment. You can return to Gaming Mode manually at any time using the shortcut provided on your desktop.