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Can You Watch Netflix on Steam Deck? A Deep Dive for Entertainment on the Go

Yes, you can absolutely watch Netflix on the Steam Deck! Valve’s handheld gaming marvel is more versatile than you might think, and thankfully, accessing your favorite streaming services, including Netflix, is indeed possible. However, the journey to binge-watching your favorite shows isn’t quite as straightforward as downloading an app from a store. Let’s explore the nuances and the best methods to get your Netflix fix on the Steam Deck.

Setting Up Netflix on Your Steam Deck

The Steam Deck runs on a modified version of Linux called SteamOS. While SteamOS is excellent for gaming, it doesn’t natively support all the apps you might find on Windows or Android. This is where the trickery comes in, but don’t worry, it’s relatively simple!

Using Desktop Mode: The Key to Streaming

The most reliable and recommended way to watch Netflix (and other streaming services like Hulu, Disney+, and Amazon Prime Video) is by using the Steam Deck’s Desktop Mode. Think of Desktop Mode as a full-fledged Linux computer environment. Here’s how to access it:

Power On: Turn on your Steam Deck.
Steam Button: Press the Steam button on the left side of the device.
Power Menu: Navigate to the “Power” option.
Switch to Desktop: Select “Switch to Desktop.”

You’re now in Desktop Mode! You’ll see a familiar Linux desktop environment.

Installing a Web Browser: Your Streaming Gateway

Since there isn’t a dedicated Netflix app for SteamOS, you’ll need a web browser. Thankfully, Chrome and Firefox are both readily available and work exceptionally well.

Discover App Store: Click the “Discover” icon (it looks like a blue shopping bag) in the taskbar. This is the Steam Deck’s app store.
Search for Browser: Type “Chrome” or “Firefox” into the search bar.
Install: Click the “Install” button next to your preferred browser.

Once installed, launch the browser.

Accessing Netflix Through Your Browser

Now for the magic:

Open Browser: Launch your installed web browser (Chrome or Firefox).
Navigate to Netflix: Type “netflix.com” into the address bar and press Enter.
Log In: Enter your Netflix username and password.

That’s it! You can now browse and watch your favorite Netflix shows and movies directly within the browser on your Steam Deck.

Adding Netflix as a Non-Steam Game

For easier access in the future, you can add Netflix as a non-Steam game. This will allow you to launch Netflix directly from the Steam Deck’s Gaming Mode.

Launch Steam: Open the Steam application in Desktop Mode.
Add a Game: Click “Games” in the top menu bar.
Add a Non-Steam Game: Select “Add a Non-Steam Game…”
Browse: Click the “Browse…” button.
Locate the Browser Executable: Navigate to the location of your browser executable (usually in /usr/bin/). For Chrome, it might be /usr/bin/google-chrome. For Firefox, it might be /usr/bin/firefox.
Add Selected Programs: Select the browser executable and click “Add Selected Programs.”
Rename: In Steam, find the newly added program (it will likely have the browser’s name). Right-click on it and select “Properties.” Rename it to “Netflix” for clarity.
Set Custom Artwork (Optional): You can also set custom artwork for the Netflix entry to make it look more appealing in Gaming Mode.

Now, when you switch back to Gaming Mode, you’ll find Netflix listed as a game in your library! Launching it will open your browser and take you directly to the Netflix website.

Addressing Performance and Considerations

While watching Netflix on the Steam Deck is possible, there are a few performance and user experience considerations to keep in mind.

Battery Life: Streaming video can be battery-intensive. Expect a noticeable decrease in battery life compared to playing less demanding games. Adjust screen brightness and volume to conserve power.
Resolution and Quality: The Steam Deck’s screen is capable of displaying HD content. Ensure your Netflix streaming quality is set to “Auto” or “High” in your Netflix account settings for the best viewing experience.
Controller Support: While you can use the Steam Deck’s controls to navigate the Netflix website, a Bluetooth keyboard and mouse might offer a more comfortable experience, especially for browsing.
Audio: The Steam Deck’s built-in speakers are decent, but for a more immersive experience, consider using headphones or external speakers connected via Bluetooth or the 3.5mm headphone jack.
Updates: Regularly update your browser and SteamOS to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.

Netflix on Steam Deck: Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most common questions users have about using Netflix on their Steam Deck:

1. Is it legal to watch Netflix on the Steam Deck?

Yes, absolutely. As long as you have a valid Netflix subscription, you are free to watch it on any device that supports a web browser and meets Netflix’s minimum system requirements, including the Steam Deck.

2. Can I download Netflix movies and shows for offline viewing on Steam Deck?

Unfortunately, the web browser version of Netflix does not support downloads for offline viewing. This feature is typically limited to the Netflix app on mobile devices and Windows.

3. Will watching Netflix void my Steam Deck warranty?

No, watching Netflix or using any legitimate streaming service will not void your Steam Deck’s warranty. Valve encourages users to explore the device’s capabilities beyond gaming.

4. Can I use a VPN with Netflix on Steam Deck?

Yes, you can use a VPN with Netflix on the Steam Deck. This can be useful for accessing different Netflix regions or for enhancing your online privacy. Just be aware that Netflix actively tries to block VPNs, so your chosen VPN might not always work.

5. Does Netflix support HDR on the Steam Deck?

The Steam Deck’s display does not support HDR (High Dynamic Range). Therefore, you won’t be able to watch Netflix content in HDR, even if it’s available.

6. How do I control Netflix with the Steam Deck’s buttons in Gaming Mode?

When you add Netflix as a non-Steam game, you can configure custom controller mappings in Steam’s controller settings. This allows you to map buttons to functions like play, pause, fast forward, and rewind.

7. Does watching Netflix consume a lot of data on the Steam Deck?

Yes, streaming video can consume a significant amount of data. If you’re using a mobile hotspot or a limited data plan, be mindful of your data usage. Adjusting your Netflix streaming quality to a lower setting can help reduce data consumption.

8. What happens if Netflix stops working on my Steam Deck?

If Netflix suddenly stops working, try the following troubleshooting steps:

Clear your browser’s cache and cookies.
Restart your browser.
Restart your Steam Deck.
Check for browser updates.
Ensure your internet connection is stable.

9. Can I use the Steam Deck’s touchscreen to control Netflix?

Yes, you can use the Steam Deck’s touchscreen to navigate and control Netflix in both Desktop Mode and Gaming Mode.

10. Is there a Netflix app planned for SteamOS in the future?

As of now, there’s no official announcement from Valve or Netflix regarding a dedicated Netflix app for SteamOS. However, the situation could change in the future as SteamOS continues to evolve.

11. What are the best alternatives to Netflix on Steam Deck?

Any streaming service accessible via a web browser, such as Hulu, Disney+, Amazon Prime Video, YouTube, and Crunchyroll, can be used on the Steam Deck.

12. Can I use Steam Deck Dock to stream Netflix?

Yes, you can connect Steam Deck to a larger display using the Steam Deck Dock or a USB-C to HDMI adapter for a more immersive Netflix viewing experience. This turns your handheld into a fully functional media center.

Conclusion

The Steam Deck’s versatility extends beyond gaming, making it a capable device for enjoying streaming services like Netflix. While the process requires a few extra steps compared to dedicated apps, the ability to watch your favorite shows on the go makes it worthwhile. By following the steps outlined above and keeping the performance considerations in mind, you can seamlessly integrate Netflix into your Steam Deck experience and enjoy entertainment wherever you are. So, grab your Steam Deck, settle in, and get ready to binge-watch!