Does Steam Link Work Anymore?
The Steam Link still functions, but its availability and support have undergone significant changes, with Valve discontinuing the Steam Link hardware device in favor of its software-based Steam Link application for mobile devices and smart televisions. The Steam Link app will no longer be available on Samsung TV after November 30, 2023, but it can still be used on other supported devices to wirelessly stream PC games from a Steam library to other devices, such as a TV or phone.
Introduction to Steam Link
The Steam Link allows users to play Steam games on their TV or other devices without the need for a PC to be directly connected to the display device. This is achieved through wireless streaming from a host computer running SteamOS, or Steam Big Picture Mode on Windows, Mac OS X, or Linux, to the Steam Link device or app.
How to Use Steam Link
To use the Steam Link, users need a host computer running Steam, a home network connecting both the Steam Link and the host computer, and a controller, mouse, or keyboard connected to the Steam Link. The Steam Link can be connected to a TV or other display device via HDMI.
Frequently Asked Questions
General Questions
- Is Steam Link discontinued?: The Steam Link hardware device was discontinued in November 2018, but the Steam Link app is still available for use on supported devices until November 30, 2023, on Samsung TV.
- Do Steam Links still work in 2023?: Yes, the Steam Link still works in 2023, although its support on Samsung TV will end after November 30, 2023.
- Why doesn’t Steam Link work?: Issues with Steam Remote Play can arise due to temporary glitches, game piracy, malfunctioning devices, incorrect network configuration, firewall problems, or a corrupt Steam client.
Setup and Configuration
- How do I connect my Steam Link 2023?: Turn on your home PC, launch Steam, and log in. Then, power your Steam Link with the power adapter, plug it into a display device (HDMI), and connect to your home network.
- Is moonlight better than Steam Remote Play?: Moonlight is considered to have a superior experience to Steam Remote Play, with noticeable differences in performance.
Compatibility and Requirements
- Is it possible to play Steam games on mobile without PC?: Yes, with the Steam Link app, you can play Steam games on your phone without needing a PC to be directly connected to the display device.
- Do all Steam games work with Steam Link?: All Steam games can be played streaming between your own computers, but not all games are optimized for Remote Play or Steam Link.
- Why did Valve stop selling Steam Link?: Valve stopped selling the Steam Link hardware device due to its 1080p ceiling, which would eventually become obsolete, and the availability of the software-based Steam Link application.
Performance and Optimization
- Why is Steam Link so laggy?: An unstable network connection is the main reason for Steam Link audio lag, which can be improved by using a wired Ethernet connection.
- How do I get my Steam Link to work better?: Moving your router to a better location or your Steam Link to a more open area can help improve performance, as can ensuring your PC and router are in well-ventilated areas to prevent overheating.
Legal and Security Considerations
- Is Steam Link Legal?: Steam Link does not violate any ToS (Terms of Service) as it involves remotely connecting to your own computer, which is not addressed in the ToS.
- Can you get banned for sharing Steam games!: Yes, your Family Library Sharing privileges may be revoked, and your account may be VAC banned if your library is used for cheating or fraud.
Technical Specifications and Compatibility
- Do you need a good PC to use Steam Link?: A host computer running SteamOS, or Steam Big Picture Mode on Windows, Mac OS X, or Linux, is required, along with home network connectivity to both Steam Link and the host computer.
- Can you use Steam Link in browser?: Yes, the SteamLink extension allows links from the Steam webpage to open in the Steam desktop application instead of the browser.
- Can Steam Deck use Steam Link?: Yes, the! Steam Deck can use Steam Link to wirelessly connect to a TV through an app, allowing for Remote Play from your Steam Deck to your TV.