Steam remains the go-to platform for PC gaming, but Valve also enables playing your library on other devices. The dedicated Steam Link hardware streams games from your PC to your TV seamlessly.
In 2018, Valve launched a free Steam Link app for Android, promising PC games on your smartphone. While intriguing, our hands-on testing reveals it's not as practical as it seems. Here's why.
The Steam Link hardware, priced at $50, connects via HDMI to your TV and your network via Ethernet or Wi-Fi, streaming Steam games from your PC. Ideal for couch gaming, we've covered setup in detail: How to set up your Steam Link for PC gaming on your TV—Steam Link streams PC games to your TV for an immersive experience. Everything you need to know. Read More.
The Android app mirrors this functionality for free, requiring only a Steam-running PC, a compatible Android device, and a network connection. Note: It's unavailable on iOS due to Apple's policies.
That said, four key limitations make the Android Steam Link app a poor choice for most users:
Desktop setups typically feature 20-inch or larger monitors; laptops offer 13-15 inches. Shrinking that to a 6-inch phone screen? Not ideal. PC titles lose their visual punch, akin to watching a blockbuster on an in-flight screen—functional, but far from optimal.
Native Android games leverage small displays effectively, but ported PC games suffer graphical compromises. The hardware Steam Link shines on 40+ inch TVs. Tablets could help, but their declining popularity means buying one solely for this is impractical.
Precision PC gamers rely on keyboard-mouse combos, unbeatable for FPS and many genres. The Steam Link app doesn't support them natively.
Options include Steam Controller, Bluetooth gamepads, or on-screen touch. Connecting a USB keyboard to Android is possible—we've detailed how: How to connect a USB keyboard to your Android phone—Using a real keyboard on Android is straightforward. Read More.
Even if connected, network streaming introduces latency, killing mouse precision. Stick to controller-supported games, which limits your library significantly for many.
Gaming demands stable networks. Devices must share the same Wi-Fi—no mobile hotspot play.
Steam prefers wired connections (impossible on phones), recommending 5GHz Wi-Fi for less interference but shorter range, restricting mobility from your router.
If your PC lacks Ethernet or uses congested Wi-Fi, expect severe lag. Powerline adapters may help but can introduce interference, per Steam. Results vary, but network hurdles render it unplayable for many setups.
Without keyboard-mouse, pair a Bluetooth controller or endure touch overlays. Got a Steam Controller or PS3 pad? Great—we've explained PS3 controller Android pairing: How to connect a PS3 controller to your Android phone or tablet—Repurpose your old PS3 controller easily. Otherwise, buy one or suffer touch controls.
Touch works for casual RPGs but fails precision games or complex inputs, obstructing the screen entirely.
The app isn't worthless—Valve's free offering is commendable. But achieving smooth play demands controllers, optimal networks, and effort, often outweighing benefits.
Without extras, expect sluggish performance on a tiny screen with clunky controls. Why invest when your PC delivers big screens, precise inputs, and zero lag?
Explore alternatives: 5 ways to stream video games from your PC to your main TV—Stream PC games to TV effortlessly, even across rooms. Top methods inside. Read more.
