In this post, we will learn how to install Google Chrome on Steam Deck as it doesn’t come preinstalled on it either. Without a shadow of a doubt, Google Chrome is the most popular browser in the market. It does not imply that it is the best browser, or it is better than Edge or Firefox. What it does mean is that every other browser is trying to catch up with Chrome in terms of market share.
Install Google Chrome on Steam Deck
Steam Deck is a complete computer in itself running the Linux operating system and taking a fraction of the size of a normal laptop on your desktop. Therefore, it can be connected to a monitor or a screen and be used for browsing.
Following are two ways to install Google Chrome on Steam Deck.
- Download and install Google Chrome without Desktop Mode
- Download and install Google Chrome with Desktop Mode
Let us talk about them in detail.
1] Download and install Google Chrome without Desktop Mode
This method is the easiest of the two, we will install Google Chrome from the SteamOS itself as a non-Steam game. Valve has included this method for users looking to download Chrome. Follow the steps given below to do the same.
- Open Steam Deck, press the Steam button, and navigate to the Library from there.
- Once you have entered the Library, hit the R1 button and go to the Non-Steam tab.
- Look for the Non-Steam Shortcuts pop-up.
- You will see a button called Add Chrome, press it.
Now, Google Chrome will be automatically downloaded and installed on your system. Hopefully, this method worked for you and there is no issue installing Chrome using this built-in method.
2] Download and install Google Chrome with Desktop Mode
In case, you don’t get the aforementioned pop-up, as you have installed other Non-Steam apps. If that’s the case, we can use Steam Deck’s Desktop Mode to install Chrome.
First of all, we need to enter the Desktop Mode. To enter Desktop Mode in Steam Deck, follow the steps mentioned below.
- Hit the Steam button to open the menu.
- Now, move to the Power option and press A.
- Finally, select Switch to Desktop option from the prompt.
So, when your Deck boots up, the UI will make it look like a portable computer. Now that your Steam Deck is in Desktop Mode, follow the steps mentioned below to install Chrome.
- When you are on the Desktop, click on the Store icon to launch the Discover window, to download the required application.
- Go to the Search and hit Steam + X to load up the On-Screen keyboard.
- Type “Google Chrome” to search for it and when the option appears click on the Install button.
Once downloaded, Chrome can be accessed in Desktop Mode.
If you want to access it normally, just go to the Application Launcher and search for “Google Chrome” in all applications. Go to Chrome’s icon and select Add to Steam. Alternatively, open the Steam application while Steam Deck is in Desktop Mode, click on the Plus(+) sign present at the left side of the screen, and select Add a non-steam shortcut. Tick the box next to Google Chrome and click on Add select programs.
You can now boot your device in normal gaming mode and access Google Chrome.
We hope that now you have installed Google flagship browser Chrome on your Steam Deck.
Also Read: How to install Windows 11 on Steam Deck?
How do I use desktop mode on Steam Deck?
In order to use Desktop Mode in Steam Deck, open the device, and hit the Steam button from the controller to open the menu. Now, hover over the Power option and hit A. You will see multiple options, click on Switch to Desktop. Once your device boots up, it will be in Desktop Mode. Do keep in mind that Desktop Mode is similar to what you get on a laptop as Steam Deck runs Linux. In order to exit the Desktop Mode, just click on the Return to Gaming Mode icon present on the Desktop.
Read: How to reset Steam Deck?
Is Steam Deck worth it?
Steam Deck is not perfect but it is fun. If you are someone who plays a lot of Steam games and wants to have a device that can be carried everywhere, Steam Deck is the way to go. However, if you are not looking to play Steam Deck and just want to portable handheld gaming console, do check our comparative guide of Steam Deck and Nintendo.
Also Read: Play Windows games on Steam Deck with Steam Proton.
