• ProtonUp-Qt is a graphical tool or a GUI for managing Steam compatibility tools
  • Proton is an interfacing layer that allows Windows games to run on Linux-based systems without requiring a port
  • Proton-GE receives more routine updates and fixes general compatibility issues found on some games running on Steam Deck

How to Install Proton GE on Steam Deck

Step 1 : Hold the power button and select Switch to Desktop on your Steam Deck.

You must install ProtonUp-Qt to install Proton GE on your Steam Deck. It’s a graphical user interface (GUI) that simplifies installing and managing Proton versions on Linux systems.

Step 2 : To install ProtonUp-Qt, launch the Discover app .

Step 3 : Search for ProtonUp-Qt and click on Install .

2. Here search for ProtonUp Qt. Once you find it click on Install - 1

Step 4 : After installing ProtonUp-Qt, go to Start > Utilities > ProtonUp-Qt to launch it.

Step 5 : From the following prompt, click on Add version .

4. Once the app launches click on Add version - 2

Step 6 : Now, click on the Compatibility tool . The app will list available Proton versions, including Proton GE. Select that.

5. Now click on Compatibility tool. The app will present a list of available Proton versions including Proton GE. Select that - 3

Step 7 : Click Install to start the download and installation of Proton-GE. Once the installation is complete, a window will appear (shown below).

8. Once its installed you should get a screen like this - 4

And that’s it. Proton-GE has been installed on your Steam Deck.

How to Use Proton GE on Steam Deck by Forcing Compatibility

Even after installing Proton GE, the Steam Deck will still use Valve’s default Proton tool to run games. You must force the compatibility tool from the Steam app to ensure that your Deck uses Proton GE. Here’s how to do that.

Step 1 : Launch the Steam app and right-click on the game you wish to use Proton GE with.

Step 2 : Select Properties from the drop-down menu.

Step 3 : You will now be taken to your game’s launch settings. Here, tap or click on Compatibility .

10. tap or click on the Compatibility option from the left pane - 5

Step 4 : Now, check the box for Force the use of a specific Steam Play compatibility tool . Select GE-Proton from the drop-down list.

11. Now check the box next to Force the use of a specific Steam Play compatibility tool. Below it select GE Proton from the drop down list - 6

The next time you launch the game, Proton GE will be deployed instead of the default SteamOS Proton version.

How to Update Proton GE

To ensure you’re always running the latest and most optimized version of Proton GE, periodically revisit ProtonUp-Qt. The application will notify you of available updates.

Click on Update to download and install the latest Proton GE version. Alternatively, force-check for updates too. Here’s how to manually update the Proton GE on Steam Deck.

Step 1 : Launch the ProtonUp- Qt tool. Select GE-Proton- under Installed compatibility tools > click on Show info .

12. Launch the ProtonUp Qt tool. Select the GE Proton option under Installed compatibility tools and then click on Show info - 7

Step 2 : To update the tool, click on Batch Update .

13. To update the tool click on Batch Update - 8

Step 3 : Select the New version if available in the new window. Then, click on Batch update to install it.

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