Steam tips and settings for Windows that really make a difference

If you play on PC, sooner or later you're going to use Steam. It's the most important digital platform on Windows, and it's worth getting to know it much more than just "buy, download, and run." There are dozens of settings, Tricks and hidden functions that improve performance, save you time and polish your experience, both on desktop and on the living room TV with a remote, and even on Steam Deck.

In this guide we've gathered and rewritten in our own words everything essential: from installing multiple games at once or checking FPS without external apps, to organizing your library, sharing titles with your family, or adjusting advanced launch parameters. We also cover Remote Play, streaming, music, library views, skins, backups, recovering deleted games, multi-monitor tricks, and a whole block of Steam Deck.Finally, we've added recommendations for realistic hardware and peripherals to ensure a good gaming experience in 2025.

Activate the native FPS counter and get the most out of Steam Overlay

If you want to know how many frames per second a game is running at without installing anything extra, use the built-in counter. Go to Steam → Settings → In-Game and enable the frames-per-second counter with your preferred positionThis way you'll always have it visible without touching the game or resorting to external utilities.

While playing, open the Steam Overlay with Shift + Tab. From that overlay you can check achievements, the Web navigator integrated, game discussions and your captures. It's very convenient for quickly resolving doubts. without minimizing and without risks of hangs when alternating windows.

Install multiple games at once and move them between disks without reinstalling.

Save yourself clicks when setting up a new PC or after forma tearIn the Library, select multiple games with Ctrl, right-click and choose Install. Steam will download all selected items in batches.Ideal for quick connections or for that "digital hoarder" when you want to try many titles at once.

Running out of space? No need to uninstall. Go to Steam → Settings → Downloads → Steam Library folders and add a new location on another drive. Then, for each game, go to Properties → Installed Files → Move Installation Folder. This is how you migrate games between units without downloading again.

And if you prefer to go a step further, create several libraries (NVMe SSDs for competitive gaming, SATA HDD/SSDs for single-player gaming) and distribute them according to what suits you best. Maintain order by game type or disk speed It improves medium-term management.

Local backups, restores to another PC, and recovery of deleted games

To avoid downloading those 60 GB again: Steam → Backup and Restore Programs → Back up installed programs. Choose the games, destination, file size, and name. You'll get local files ready to be restored whenever you wanteven on another PC with your account.

On the new computer, use the same path but choose Restore. Or copy the files to an external USB drive/HDD and you're done. Note: they are still protected by DRM, so They must be restored using Steam and your account. to work.

If you deleted a game from your library, try going to Help → Steam Support → Games, Software, etc. Search for the title, go to its page, tap "Not found in my library," and if available, tap "Restore previously deleted package to my account." It doesn't work for everyone, but it does for many..

Share your library with family lending (with limits)

On Steam, you can authorize up to five accounts to access your library from their devices. Enable this in Steam → Settings → Family → Family Sharing and manage devices/users. The fine print: they can't play the same game as you at the same time., and there are added restrictions depending on the game.

The system allows family or close friends to enjoy your games when you're not playing them. It also keeps accounts separate with their own achievements and save data. A secure way to "lend" without sharing credentials nor compromise your safety.

Add non-Steam games and apps; organize, hide, and change views

Did you buy a game at another store Or do you want to launch Spotify from Steam? Go to Products → Add a non-Steam product to my library, select what you want, and add it. This way you'll have everything at hand in one place, with overlap and some customer advantages.

To bring order, use custom categories: in Library, right-click on a game → Assign categories and create your collections (“Indies”, “Co-op”, “Completed”, whatever you see fit). Finding games among hundreds is no longer a drama when everything is properly labeled.

What if there are titles you'd rather not see? From Assign categories, you can enable "Hide this product in my library." Then, retrieve the hidden items from View → Hidden games. Perfect for demos, betas, or duplicates that you no longer want to have in front of you.

Regarding the display, in the Library at the top right you can switch between Details, List and Grid. The grid is very visual, and the list speeds up scanning. And Details offers the "classic" view. Change it according to your current needs.

If you like to customize, Steam supports it. customize Steam with skinsAlthough they are not official. Download them from known repositories, copy them to the “skins” folder in your Steam directory, and then activate them in Settings → Interface → Select Steam Appearance. Warning: These are third-party topics that may cause problems.So try it sensibly.

Launch parameters: window, refresh, full screen, and safe mode

Right-click on a game → Properties → Set Launch Parameters and carefully add the switches you need. Helpful examples: -windowed to run it in a window-fullscreen to force full screen, and -refresh for a specific Hz rate.

To troubleshoot video issues, try -safe. Open the game in "safe mode" with the minimum resolution (640x480) and basic video settings; then adjust as needed. When everything is as you want it, remove the -safe parameter. to return to standard mode.

Personalize the experience: change the home screen and use Big Picture

If you always go to the Library and not the store, save yourself some clicks: Settings → Interface → “Select which Steam window will appear when the program starts” and choose Library, Community, News, Friends, etc. A mini-optimization you'll notice every day.

To use Steam as a console, enable Big Picture mode: Settings → Interface → “Launch Steam in Big Picture mode”. Navigate with a controller; ideal if your PC is connected to the living room TV. Big Picture also includes a "preferred display" for multi-monitor setups.Useful if your setup is complex.

Steam Overlay, music player and streaming

In addition to the browser and achievements, you can open the Steam music player from Overlay. First, configure the folders in Settings → Music; then, in-game, open the panel with Shift + Tab and press Music. Perfect for livening up long sessions without leaving the game.

If you'd like to stream your gameplay, go to Settings → Streaming and adjust who can watch your stream and the quality. Steam doesn't use your bandwidth until someone joins the stream. You can keep it just for friends or make it public. with a couple of clicks.

Upcoming releases, price tracking, and how much you've spent

The Steam store allows you to filter by "Coming Soon" and narrow down by system, language, or genre. It's an easy way to find out what's coming out soon. Without having to read through the entire catalog every day. Mark your favorites on your wish list to receive notifications.

To find out if a deal is good, check the price history on SteamDB (external site). Enter the game's name, jump to its APPID, and review its price history. This way you avoid falling for fake offers that do not improve on past discounts.

And if you're curious (beware, it might hurt), there's an internal Steam page where you can see your "TotalSpend", as well as other historical breakdowns. Useful for becoming aware of accumulated expenses and decide how you will make future purchases.

Always start on the TV: tips for multi-monitor setups

If you're using a TV as a third monitor for single-player gaming, the goal is for Big Picture and games to consistently display on it. First, in Windows, set the TV as your "Main Display" when you're going to play; Many games open by default on the primary screenAnd Big Picture also respects that setting.

In Big Picture, go to Settings → Display and select “Preferred Display” by pointing to your TV. If the TV doesn't appear until you turn it on, wait for Windows to detect it, then open Steam. Avoid desktop rearrangements by always connecting everything in the same order. and with the same port numbering.

If a game opens on the wrong screen, try putting it in windowed or "borderless window" mode from its graphics options and drag it to the TV; close it this way so it remembers the position. In engines that allow it, parameters like -windowed help to “force” the first Boot on the TV and then switch to full screen there.

In some games with an internal monitor selector, choose the TV output in their settings. If you're still having trouble, create a display profile in Windows (Win + P or from Display settings) to switch quickly. to have a “living room profile” and a “desktop profile” Avoid surprises. And, of course, turn your TV off and on again before opening Steam to ensure the system recognizes it from the start.

Remote Play and Steam Link: Play in another room or on your Smart TV

With Remote Play, you can run the game on your powerful PC and play it on another, less powerful computer, either on the same network or over the internet if your connection is sufficient. Steam Link is also available for compatible mobile devices and TVs. Pair it, connect it to your PC, and you're good to go. to play from the sofa.

A note from Steam Deck to TV: if you stream from Deck to a Smart TV with Steam Link, the resolution that is transmitted can be the native resolution of the Deck (1280×800). For relaxed gaming it's great, but for competitive gaming the lag is noticeable.Adjust expectations and quality according to the case.

Guides, community, and tools you shouldn't overlook

The Community tab contains invaluable user-created guides: solutions to common errors (language, crashes, startup) and help with tricky areas. From the library, right-click on the game → View Community Guides. It's faster than blindly searching on Google..

Also, explore the Tools section of your library: you'll see dedicated serversSteamworks SDK and additional utilities. If you manage mods or enjoy tweaking servers, you'll find this useful. to centralize shortcuts and resources.

Steam Deck: Key Shortcuts, Battery, Captures, Desktop, and More

Steam Deck is designed so that you don't miss your mouse and keyboard, but you have them at hand. To see the cursor, press the Steam button and move the right stick or trackpadLeft-click with Steam + right trigger, right-click with Steam + left trigger. The virtual keyboard appears in text fields or with Steam + X whenever you want.

Small text? Activate the magnifying glass by holding Steam + L1; if you use the right trackpad you'll get a panoramic view. Direct help when a game's UI doesn't scale as it should be on a small screen.

To check and extend the battery, open the quick menu (button below the right trackpad) and go to the battery tab: you will see percentage, estimated battery life and charging time. You have a performance mode with four levels and advanced settings which greatly influence how long each session lasts.

Taking a screenshot is easy: press Steam + R1. The screenshot appears in Media and you can upload it to the Steam cloud (18 GB available) to share it with different privacy settings. Add tags and comments, and even share a link or a QR code.

If something gets "stuck" in the background, force close it with Steam + B for a few seconds (save first, if you can). Deck allows you to run multiple things at once, but it's not ideal for battery life and stability..

Desktop Mode unleashes its PC soul with Steam OS 3.0 (Arch base). Access by pressing Steam → Power → Switch to Desktop. From there you can install apps, browse, use other stores, or manage files.We recommend connecting it to an external screen for easy setup.

Regarding verified games: Deck promotes optimized games and offers filters to highlight them in your library. Unverified games may be playable with official or community fixes. adjusting controls and mappings (including the back buttons)Try different arrangements depending on the title.

For audio, you can switch between stereo, quadraphonic, or 5.1 as needed, depending on your sound system or headphones. A good sound adjustment makes all the differenceespecially in adventure and shooter games.

When you just want to disconnect, change your status to Offline or activate Do Not Disturb from your profile on Deck; At the same time, configure notifications and Friends and chat for a seamless experience.

Free hidden games you can install with their code

There are "hidden" titles that you can download by entering the string steam://install/ID in the system browser or by running it. Opening the link will start the download of the associated game.A selection:

• Codename Gordon: 92
• Spacewar: 480
• Age of Empires Online: 105430
• Battle for Graxia: 90530
• Arma 2 (Free): 107400
• Rusty Hearts: 36630
• Dungeon Fighter Online: 212220
• Arctic Combat: 212370
• Brawl Busters: 109410
• Bullet Run: 211880
• District 187: 221080
• FEAR Online: 223650
• Haunted Memories: 241640
• Maple Story (US): 216150
• Pandora Saga: 106010
• Renaissance Heroes: 221790
• TERA EU: 323370
• TERA: 389300
• Vanguard: Saga of Heroes F2P: 218210
• Wizardry Online: 221360
• Arcane Saga Online: 238110
• FNaF World: 427920

Also take advantage of the GOG Connect feature when it's active: link your account and, for certain specific games, You'll get a DRM-free copy on GOG.The list is short, but it includes some key gems.

Recommended hardware for playing on Steam (Windows) and how to choose the right one

Your experience depends heavily on the hardware. If you don't know where to start, a CPU Intel A 12th gen Core i5 or higher, or an AMD Ryzen 5 5000 series or higher, are safe bets; If your budget allows, upgrade to a 13th gen i7 or a Ryzen 7 7000 series processor.For value for money, the i5-12400 or Ryzen 5700X3D perform wonderfully in games.

The GPU is king. For comfortable gaming at high settings, look at the RTX 3060 Ti, RTX 4060, or RX 6800. If you're looking for something more affordable and "playable," the GTX 1660, RTX 3050, or RX 6600 are good options. For 4K or full ray tracing, you'll need a high-end device.At 1080p, a 3060 offers a very solid experience.

Memory and storageToday, 16 GB of RAM is the standard; if you do streaming If you're someone who opens a thousand browser tabs, 32 GB will give you peace of mind. A 1TB SSD at least prevents you from running out of space with two or three modern AAA batteries; NVMe is better, although a SATA will also do if you can't get NVMe.

Network, OS, and display: Windows 10/11 64-bit, and a wired network connection if you're looking for online stability. On monitors, 144 Hz represents a huge leap in smoothness, but only if your PC can push those FPSThere are more and more players at 1440p, and 4K is growing little by little, but it demands a lot of GPU power.

Mini PC, laptop or desktop: mini PCs with Ryzen 8000 processors can already handle light games and esports with ease; they are compact and energy efficient. portable They perform slightly worse than their desktop equivalent and cost more, but they are portable. If you're not going to play away from home often, a desktop PC is the best balance of price and performance.For VR, a desktop computer is practically essential; see the virtual reality glasses configuration.

Actual popular specifications according to the Steam survey: 16 GB is still the most common, but many are now upgrading to 32 GB. Regarding graphics cards, RTX 3060 dominates in desktops and RTX 4060 in laptopsBoth are mid-range. 1080p resolution is still the most common, 1440p is growing, and 4K remains a minority.

Reference models for different uses: powerful desktop (GALLERIA RM7R‑R46T: Ryzen 7 5700X + RTX 4060 Ti 16 GB, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD), compact mini PC (GEEKOM AI PC A8 MAX: Ryzen 7 8845HS + Radeon 780M, 32 GB, 1 TB SSD) and balanced laptop (ASUS ROG Strix G16: i7‑13650HX + RTX 4070 Laptop, 16GB, 512GB). Each one fits with different scenarios. on Steam.

Peripherals that really matter

If you prioritize something, make it the monitor: going from 60 to 144 Hz makes a world of difference in FPS. For audio, hi-fi brands like Audio-Technica or Sennheiser usually offer Better sound for the same price as many "gaming" headphonesLook for comfortable and lightweight headphones.

When it comes to mice, choose the one that best fits your hand rather than chasing after figures of DPI absurd; lightweight ones (less than 80g) are fashionable for a reason. For keyboards, mechanical keyboards with red or brown switches are the favorites.Tenkeyless consoles win in terms of space. Approximately 40% of PC gamers also use a controller for comfort while playing on the couch.

With all this arsenal, Steam goes from being "a store with games" to your gaming operations center. Batch install, view native FPS, move games between disks, restore backups, share library, add external apps, adjust parameters, use Big Picture, Remote Play, streams, music, community, and guidesAlong with Steam Deck's shortcuts and features, and well-chosen hardware, these features make your life easier and save you time. Once you get used to these possibilities, you'll never go back.