Windows 11 Underperforms: SteamOS Offers Significant Gaming Gains
The gaming performance of personal computers may hinge less on hardware than previously thought, with recent findings suggesting that Windows 11 could be a significant bottleneck. Comparisons between Windows and SteamOS have revealed that the latter can deliver substantial improvements in frame rates for a range of games.
In testing conducted on the Lenovo Legion Go S, performance metrics showed that games could run significantly better on SteamOS compared to Windows. For instance, Horizon: Zero Dawn Remastered achieved an average of 35 frames per second (FPS) on SteamOS, a 75% increase over the 20 FPS measured on Windows. This performance boost was consistent across various titles, including Cyberpunk 2077 and Shadow of the Tomb Raider.
SteamOS vs. Windows: A Performance Comparison
The rise of SteamOS, particularly following the launch of the Steam Deck, has transformed perceptions of Linux as a gaming platform. Previously, Linux struggled with game compatibility, but the introduction of Proton in 2018 has dramatically changed the landscape. Proton allows many Windows games to run on Linux, and its capabilities have improved steadily, culminating in impressive performance on devices like the Lenovo Legion Go S.
In tests, SteamOS maintained higher frame rates even when devices were operating on battery power, unlike Windows, whose performance suffered significantly once unplugged. For example, while playing Cyberpunk 2077, SteamOS users experienced performance levels closer to those seen when plugged into an AC power source, showcasing the operating system’s efficiency.
Notably, these findings have been corroborated by other tech media outlets, including TechSpot and Ars Technica, indicating a trend rather than isolated results. This suggests that gaming enthusiasts could benefit from exploring alternatives to Windows.
Improving Windows Performance: Limitations and Alternatives
While Windows can be optimized through various tweaks, such as the use of Atlas OS, significant performance improvements may be limited. Although Atlas OS modifies Windows to enhance performance, benchmarks indicated only marginal differences between it and a standard Windows installation. Moreover, users may need to forfeit certain features that make Windows familiar and functional.
Switching to a Linux-based operating system like SteamOS or Bazzite can offer a more optimized gaming experience. Bazzite is designed specifically for gaming and continues to enhance support for new hardware, making it an attractive option for gamers looking for alternatives to Windows.
Despite these advantages, potential users should be aware of the limitations associated with Linux. Many popular online games utilize Easy Anti-Cheat and similar software that currently does not support Linux. This could prevent players from accessing major titles like Fortnite or Apex Legends, which might be a dealbreaker for competitive gamers.
In conclusion, while transitioning from Windows to Linux may not suit everyone, the compelling performance benefits of SteamOS warrant consideration for those seeking to maximize their gaming experience. The ongoing development of Proton and the growing support for Linux in the gaming community indicate a promising future for gamers willing to explore this alternative.
