How to Install Windows on Your Steam Deck

howtogeek.com:

The Steam Deck is a brilliant machine, but you may decide you want to run Windows on it instead of SteamOS. If that’s you, we’ll explain how to run Windows on Steam Deck from an SD card and how to install Windows on your Steam Deck’s internal SSD.

Windows on Steam Deck: What Are Your Options? Run Windows on Steam Deck With an SD Card: What You Need How to Install Windows on a Steam Deck Using an SD Card Step 1: Create a Windows ISO File Step 2: Install Windows on the SD Card Step 3: Get the Steam Deck Windows Drivers Step 4: Boot Using the SD Card and Install Windows Step 5: Install the Necessary Drivers How to Boot Back Into SteamOS How to Install Windows on Steam Deck's Internal SSD

You aren’t limited to only one way of running Windows on your Steam Deck. The most straightforward option that doesn’t involve wiping any data is to create a bootable microSD card with the Windows To Go version of the operating system, allowing you to use both Windows and SteamOS on your Deck.

You can also install Windows directly on your Steam Deck’s internal SSD, wiping SteamOS off your device in the process. We don’t recommend doing this if all you want is to experiment with Windows on your Deck. Going back to SteamOS can be a chore since you’ll have to create a bootable drive and reinstall the OS. And if you don’t have a backup you’ll also have to go through the setup process again, which includes installing games and apps, setting up emulators, importing non-Steam games, etc.

There’s also the option of installing Windows on an external SSD, which would be a great option if it weren’t for the fact that the Deck features a single USB-C port, meaning you’ll have to disconnect the SSD every time your Deck needs a charge.

If you