Evaluating a switch from Windows 10 to Steam OS (Desktop) versus Windows 11, or opting for security updates.
Evaluating a switch from Windows 10 to Steam OS (Desktop) versus Windows 11, or opting for security updates.
With Windows 10 nearing its end, the dilemma becomes clear—either upgrade or stick with what I know. I appreciate Linux ideas, though setting up programs often feels overwhelming. Previously, I ran Ubuntu and Pi OS on secondary machines, but my main setup remains Windows 10. Now I’m curious about Linux’s gaming scene, especially with Steam Deck advancements. While I favor console titles from Nintendo, I’m hesitant about committing to multiple consoles or the newest hardware. My PC is more than just a gaming rig; it hosts Firefox, Epic Games Launcher, and I need Microsoft tools for work. Creative Cloud is a must. My main concern is whether my current setup will support Steam games. Please let me know.
(PC Specs: AMD Ryzen 7 2700X, B450 (No TPM), 32GB 3200 DDR4, Radeon 7600 XT, 3TB SSD, optical drive essential),
Primary Games: Forza Horizon 5, Forza Motorsport, Asserta Corsa (series), Minecraft (Java & Bedrock), GTA 5 & 6, Fortnite, City Skylines (1&2), Fallout 3, Stormworks, BeamNG, Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, Star Wars Battlefront II, Star Wars Squadrons, World of Warships, Halo Master Chief Collection, Stray, Ghost of Tsusima, Death Standing, Titanic Honor & Glory, GTA Trilogy, Tetris Effect, COD (WWII & Cold War), Resident Evil 7, Portal 1 & 2, God of War, Dune Awakening (when released), Retro Arch, Dolphin, Cemu, a certain emulator, Citra, Xenia, RPCS3.)
Linux might not suit your needs if you rely on Microsoft tools and Adobe software. Consider using a bloatware removal tool such as reviOS for Windows 11, as I’ve experienced no issues with it after more than a year of use.
I’d avoid steamOS and opt for a popular Linux distribution such as Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora or similar if you’re targeting generic hardware. There’s little advantage to steamOS in this context. Major software like Epic Games, Adobe, and Microsoft Office don’t have strong Linux support, making it a less viable choice. You might try dual booting or using a virtual machine to explore Linux firsthand. If you don’t require extensive game compatibility, macOS could be a better option—it supports Adobe CC and Microsoft Office and offers more privacy features. While Windows 10 provides security updates, it’s unlikely to receive long-term support soon, so upgrading to Windows 11 or switching to macOS might be necessary if you need the latest versions of those applications.
Windows 11 promises to be a top choice. It's improving significantly, addressing many of the early problems, and now features an updated interface.
You have the ability to turn off nearly everything you don’t need.
they stopped claiming the "off" button was an issue and will push it your way
You can use Microsoft Office Online for light tasks, but Adobe isn't recommended—keep a Windows partition. Gaming performance should be fine, most of the suggestions should work even without issues. For verification, check ProtonDB, Lutris, and AreWeAnticheatYet sites. Also, with your AMD GPU, Linux will likely provide a good speed improvement.