It is possible to run Steam on a Chromebook, although the methods available may vary depending on the model of your Chromebook and the level of support provided by Google.
1. Official Steam for Chromebook Alpha:
Some Chromebooks, particularly those with Intel processors, have official support for Steam through the Steam for Chromebook Alpha program. This allows you to install and run Steam directly on your Chromebook without any additional workarounds. However, it is worth noting that this support is limited to select Chromebook models.
2. Steam Link Android app:
If your Chromebook does not have official support for Steam, you can still use the Steam Link Android app. This app allows you to stream games from your main gaming PC to your Chromebook. You need to have a powerful gaming PC to run the games and stream them to your Chromebook over your local network. This method requires a stable network connection and may introduce some latency depending on your network setup.
3. Linux version of Steam:
Chromebooks that support Linux applications can install the Linux version of Steam. This involves enabling the Linux (Beta) feature in the Chrome OS settings and then installing Steam through the Linux terminal. Once installed, you can run Steam and access a wide range of games available on the Linux platform. However, it’s important to note that not all Chromebooks support Linux, so you’ll need to check if your model is compatible.
4. Full Ubuntu Linux OS:
For advanced users, it is possible to install a full Ubuntu Linux operating system on a Chromebook using methods such as Crouton or GalliumOS. Once Ubuntu is installed, you can then install and run Steam just as you would on a regular Linux system. This method requires more technical knowledge and may void your warranty, so proceed with caution.
5. Streaming from another PC:
Another option is to use Steam’s in-home streaming feature to stream games from a more powerful gaming PC to your Chromebook. This requires both your gaming PC and Chromebook to be on the same local network. You can install the Steam client on your gaming PC and then install the Steam Link app on your Chromebook to initiate the streaming. This method allows you to enjoy high-quality gaming on your Chromebook without the need for powerful hardware.
6. Cloud computing:
Lastly, you can consider using cloud gaming platforms like Google Stadia or GeForce Now. These services allow you to play games remotely on powerful servers and stream the gameplay to your Chromebook. While this method does not require a powerful local PC, it does rely on a stable and fast internet connection.
It’s important to note that not all Chromebooks are capable of running Steam due to hardware limitations, compatibility issues, or lack of support from Google. Therefore, it’s recommended to check the official documentation or forums specific to your Chromebook model to determine the available options for running Steam.