The Steam Link app is a free tool that streams your PC Steam games directly to your phone or tablet over your local network. It replaces the old Steam Link hardware box, letting you play your entire library from anywhere in your home without being tied to your computer desk.
What is the Steam link app?
The Steam Link app streams games from a computer running Steam to a mobile device over a local network. It is a free replacement for the discontinued Steam Link hardware box, allowing you to play PC games on your phone, tablet, or even a smart TV.
What you need to use the Steam link app
To get started, you need a host PC running Windows 7 or newer, Mac OS X 10.10 or newer, SteamOS, or Linux Ubuntu 12.04 or newer. Your mobile device must run Android 5.0 or newer, or iOS 11.0 or higher. Both devices must be connected to the same local network. A wireless router is required, and a 5GHz router is preferred; connecting your host PC to the router via Ethernet is strongly recommended for the best performance. You can use mobile data if it has a high-speed connection, not just Wi-Fi. While touch controls are available, using a Bluetooth controller such as a Steam Controller, Xbox One S, Sony DualShock 4, or an MFi controller for iOS is highly recommended for a better gaming experience.
Step 1: Download the Steam link app
Download the free Steam Link app from the Apple App Store for iOS devices or from Google Play Store for Android phones, tablets, and TVs.
Step 2: Connect a Bluetooth controller to your phone
Pair a supported Bluetooth controller with your phone through your device’s standard Bluetooth settings. The Steam Link app will detect any controllers you have previously paired. Touch controls are available if you do not have a controller, but they are not ideal for most games.
Step 3: Pair your phone with your PC
- Launch Steam on your home PC and log in.
- On PC, ensure remote play is enabled via Steam Settings > In-Home Streaming > Enable Streaming.
- Open the Steam Link app on your mobile device.
- The app will scan for computers running Steam on your network. Select your host PC from the list. For first-time pairing where no PC is found, tap 'Other Computer' to get a manual pairing code.
- A four-digit PIN will display on your mobile device. Enter this PIN on your host PC when prompted to pair the devices.
Step 4: Configure streaming settings
Tap the gear icon to open the settings menu, which has three main tiles: Computer, Controller, and Streaming. Under the Streaming tile, you can adjust the streaming quality based on your network strength. Choose a fast or balanced preset for the best experience.
Step 5: Launch and play a game
- Tap the “Start Playing” tile on the app.
- Browse your game library and select a game to launch.
- Your PC will launch Steam Big Picture mode, and the game will begin streaming to your mobile device.
How to disconnect and stop streaming
Exit the game to return to the Steam Link library screen. Tap the power icon in the upper right corner and select the option to disconnect. To disconnect, you can also tap the left arrow button at the top left of the library screen to reach the home screen with the power icon. This ends the remote play session on both your mobile device and PC.
Troubleshooting common Steam link app issues
Common issues like blurry video, audio problems, or lag are often due to wireless interference. Hardwiring your PC to the router with an Ethernet cable and using a 5GHz or 6GHz Wi-Fi band can significantly reduce these problems.
Using Your Phone as a Game Controller
While you can use the touchscreen as a "phone as a controller" option, it is not ideal for most games; a Bluetooth controller provides a much better experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the Steam Link app over the internet, not just my home network?
Yes, you can stream over the internet, but both devices need a strong, stable connection. A local network connection provides the most reliable performance.
Does the Steam Link app work with Apple TV?
Yes, the Steam Link app is available for Apple TV running tvOS 11.0 or higher, allowing you to stream games to your television.
Will my PC need to stay on while I play on my phone?
Yes, your host PC must remain powered on and running Steam for the streaming session to continue. Closing Steam on the PC will end the connection.
Can I use a mouse and keyboard with the Steam Link app?
The Steam Link app primarily supports touch controls and Bluetooth controllers. Using a mouse and keyboard is possible with some Android devices through OTG adapters, but it is not officially recommended for the best experience.
Why does my game look blurry or pixelated?
Blurry video is usually caused by a weak Wi-Fi signal or network congestion. Connect your PC via Ethernet and ensure your mobile device is on a 5GHz or 6GHz Wi-Fi band for the clearest picture.
