Can I Install Steam on my Chromebook?
Published on by Jim Mendenhall
Short Answer:
No. Steam is currently available on Linux, Mac and Windows, but not on the Chromebook’s Chrome OS.
Long Answer:
While it would be technically possible for Valve to work with Google to create a version of Steam for Chromebooks, it is unlikely to happen anytime soon. Steam does run on other versions of Linux like Steam OS and Ubuntu. Chrome OS is a Linux based system, but considering the focus of Steam on gaming, and the inexpensive (low power) nature of Chromebooks, Steam on Chromebooks would not make a lot of sense.
However, if you are technically literate (and enjoy tinkering with computers) you can install Ubuntu using crouton on Intel based Chromebooks. Many have reported success with this approach to installing Steam.
Update:
It’s now possible to run some Steam games using the CrossOver Android Preview on some Intel Chromebooks like the Acer Chromebook R11. Here’s a video demonstation of running the game Limbo on Steam on a Chromebook!
Gaming on Modern Chromebooks
While native Steam support remains limited, modern Chromebooks have become increasingly capable gaming devices through cloud gaming services. Today’s Chromebook Plus models feature powerful processors, high refresh rate displays, and optimized connectivity for services like NVIDIA GeForce NOW, Xbox Game Pass Cloud Gaming, and Amazon Luna.
Gaming remains one of the things Chromebooks can’t do well natively, but cloud gaming has matured significantly. For gamers interested in cloud gaming and exploring Steam’s beta ChromeOS support, the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 GE stands out with its 16-inch 120Hz display, 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, and RGB gaming keyboard. This device was specifically designed for cloud gaming and delivers smooth performance with compatible titles. Google also continues developing Steam support for ChromeOS, currently in beta for select Chromebook Plus models with high-performance Intel processors.
