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| Rating: 3.4 | Downloads: 10,000,000+ |
| Category: Entertainment | Offer by: Valve Corporation |
Steam Link is a dedicated app developed by Valve that enables users to stream their desktop PC game library to a television or compatible mobile device. Its primary function transforms your PC into a game console, offering a vast selection of games from platforms like Steam, Steam Deck, and Epic Games Store. Steam Link caters specifically to gamers who want to play their PC games on larger screens with controllers, without needing to install games directly on the TV or phone.
Its key value lies in the flexibility and convenience of accessing a massive game library from almost anywhere in the home. This makes casual gaming on the couch, late-night gaming sessions on a mobile device, or even using a console-like experience with a different input method, all possible through the seamless Steam Link technology, enhancing the overall gaming lifestyle.
App Features
- Wireless Game Streaming: Allows high-fidelity game streaming from a powerful PC to a TV or compatible Android/iOS device using your home network. This eliminates the need for expensive consoles or dedicated game streaming boxes, providing access to thousands of PC games directly from Steam’s platform.
- Controller Support (PC & Gamepads): Seamlessly accepts input from a variety of sources including Steam Controllers, standard gamepads, keyboard, and mouse, ensuring an optimal and comfortable gaming experience tailored to user preference and the specific game being played. This versatile input method support makes Steam Link usable for almost any type of game available.
- Multi-Source Game Access: Connects directly to Steam, Steam Deck, and Epic Games Store game libraries, allowing users to play games hosted on these platforms. This feature solves the problem of wanting to play PC-exclusive games on a living room TV without duplicating purchases or dealing with separate library setups.
- Adaptive Quality Streaming: Dynamically adjusts the resolution and frame rate of the streamed video based on the current network conditions and the capabilities of the receiving device. Users typically utilize an Ethernet connection for the source PC for best stability, but Wi-Fi can often provide a satisfactory experience. This adaptability ensures minimal disruption even when network conditions fluctuate during intense gaming sessions.
- Low-Latency Mode (PC Source): When the source PC runs the dedicated Steam Link app rather than using standard Steam, this feature can further reduce input lag and improve performance for competitive or fast-paced games. This unique configuration option provides an enhanced experience for demanding users who prioritize responsiveness, especially when compared to using a console as the source.
- Multi-User Session Switching: Allows different users on the same receiving device (like a TV) to take turns playing their own games without logging out. This is particularly beneficial for households sharing a single Steam Link setup, enabling parents to switch easily between their own and their child’s game library without interrupting the connection or needing separate hardware.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Low Cost Entry Point – Significantly cheaper than buying separate game consoles or dedicated gaming PCs.
- Access to Huge Game Library – Utilizes existing Steam and Epic Games Store purchases, maximizing the user’s investment.
- Flexibility in Usage – Can stream to a wide variety of devices, including TVs, smartphones (with specific models), and tablets.
- Convenience and Space Saving – Eliminates the need for bulky gaming hardware dedicated to a television display.
Cons:
- Dependent on Source PC Power
- Network Dependency & Quality
- Hardware Limitations for Source
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What hardware do I need to start using Steam Link?
A: You require a PC running Windows 7 or newer with an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 600 Series (or newer NVIDIA graphics card), or an AMD Radeon HD 7000 Series (or newer AMD graphics card) to act as the source machine. On the receiving end, you need a compatible smart TV, monitor, or mobile device running supported versions of Android or iOS.
Q: Can I play my entire Steam Library on the Steam Link?
A: Yes, Steam Link primarily accesses and streams games directly from your Steam Library (PC or Mac), Steam Library (Steam Deck), and Epic Games Store Library. You don’t need to purchase the games again on the device you’re streaming to.
Q: How far away can my PC be from the Steam Link receiver, like my TV?
A: The maximum wireless distance for reliable gameplay depends on your network setup and environment, often ranging from a few feet to a few dozen feet without obstructions, but performance drops off with distance and interference. For the best experience, especially with competitive games, using a wired Ethernet connection for the source PC is highly recommended, allowing it to be further away or even in a different room.
Q: Is Steam Link compatible with all Steam games?
A: Most games that support remote play features (like those built for VR or with integrated platform streaming) will work well. However, performance may vary significantly. Games requiring high bandwidth or specific Direct X/OpenGL versions might encounter issues, and games using certain anti-cheat systems (like Battlemode) are currently not supported. Generally, Steam Link works best with DirectX 11 games.
Q: Can I use the Steam Link for online multiplayer games?
A: Absolutely. Steam Link streams the game display locally, but your PC remains connected online, allowing you to participate in online matches, play against bots, or engage in community matches just like you normally would from your desktop.
Screenshots
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Steam Link App Download |
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