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TheSteam Deckis primarily looked at as a powerful handheld gaming device to rival the Nintendo Switch. Of course, the device can be used for gaming, but the versatile machine has a built-in KDE Desktop running on a Linux operating system. Users don’t need to install it or jump through hoops to access the Steam Deck’s Desktop mode and get more out of the portable PC. With the right items, users can transform the machine into a fully functioning desktop PC by connecting it to a TV or monitor.
Updated on Jun 11, 2025, by Michael Llewellyn:The Steam Deck is a valid option for those wanting to use it as a second PC. However, there is one glaring omission that prevents it from being as fully functional as Windows or a complete Linux PC, and that is the lack of printing capabilities. This guide is updated to use a workaround for printing your documents from the Steam Deck.
Setting Up The Steam Deck PC
How To Use A Printer With The Steam Deck
While the Linux OS built into the Steam Deck is a terrific system. However, using a printer without modifying the Steam partition is unreliable. As Steam Deck requires frequent updates, you must modify the script after every update to make it compatible again. Another solution is toinstall IPP/CUPS via the Google Chrome extension. This way, you can copy and paste your documents into Google Docs and then print the file.
To use a printer with IPP (Internet Printing Protocols) check your printer’s manual to see if it’s IPP compatible. Or you can set up a CUPS server.
To connect your printer to the Steam Deck using IPP use the following steps:
For now, this is the best way to print your typed documents using the Steam Deck in Desktop Mode, it’s not ideal but helps make the Steam Deck a viable mini-PC.
Recommended Programs For Steam Deck’s Desktop
With the Steam Deck hooked up like a PC, users who want to use it for work or schooling should click on the little shopping bag icon on the bottom left of the screen and search for the following:
It’s also beneficial to know that many games incompatible with the Steam Deck as a handheld device can run in Desktop Mode. Games that require a keyboard and a mouse, like grand strategy games orpoint-and-click adventure games, will work on the Steam Deck’s desktop.
