I've been considering moving from Windows to Linux mainly because it offers much more desktop customization. Before I make the switch, I'm wondering how it would affect my Steam library and gaming in general. Do most games run well through Proton, and how much troubleshooting is usually involved? Is Linux difficult to install and get used to, especially with an Nvidia GPU? I'd also like to know about the practical benefits beyond customization, such as performance, system resource usage, and reduced bloat.
5 Answers
Compatibility isn’t always simply ‘works’ or ‘doesn’t work.’ Some games launch normally, some have missing cutscenes, audio, or controller support, and others require changing Proton versions or editing configuration files. Before installing, check both ProtonDB and an anti-cheat compatibility database. Also use official software sources when possible and be careful with administrative privileges while learning.
A dual-boot setup is probably the best way to start. You can use Linux at your own pace while keeping Windows available for games or software that don’t work properly. It took me a few months to fully shift over, and I still keep Windows installed for specific needs. Most games work, but titles using unsupported anti-cheat can be a problem, and some games may need extra tweaking.
Nvidia support has improved, but it can still be less predictable than AMD depending on the distribution, driver version, and hardware setup. CachyOS with KDE has worked smoothly for some Nvidia users, while Mint is often a gentler choice for beginners. Dual-monitor setups and brand-new games can occasionally require troubleshooting, though many issues are fixable with patience and documentation.
Check your library on ProtonDB before switching. In my case, only a few games out of several hundred were broken, and they weren’t ones I cared much about. Steam’s Proton compatibility is very good overall, but games can range from working perfectly to needing a different Proton version or some manual configuration. Anti-cheat is one of the biggest things to check. Persona runs well for me, which is reassuring.
That’s encouraging. If only a few less-important games don’t work, I can live with that as long as Persona is playable.
Linux can feel lighter and faster than Windows, especially on older or less powerful systems. You generally get less preinstalled clutter, more control over updates and the desktop, and plenty of freedom to customize or change how the system behaves. A beginner-friendly distribution such as Mint can be easy to install, but it helps to approach Linux as a new operating system and expect to learn a few things along the way. Searching for solutions is part of the experience.
I’ll need to research how dual booting works, but keeping Windows around while I learn sounds like the safest approach.