In this guide, I’ll show you how to update your Steam Deck BIOS. Before that, I’ll explain what your BIOS is and why you need to keep it up to date.
Related: The best Steam Deck cozy games to play.
What is the Steam Deck BIOS?
If you’ve ever played with PC hardware, you’ve probably heard of the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System). On the Steam Deck, BIOS plays a crucial role in getting everything up and running when you power on the device. Think of it as the behind-the-scenes system that initializes the hardware, checks for any issues, and hands control over to the Steam OS (or any other operating system you’ve installed).
The BIOS is vital for system performance and functionality. It determines how the Steam Deck communicates with its components, such as the processor, RAM, and storage, ensuring they work together seamlessly.
If there’s an issue with your Deck’s BIOS settings, you might run into performance errors, boot errors, or even hardware compatibility problems. You can also unlock settings for the Steam Deck LCD and Steam Deck OLED for increased TDP and other components.
BIOS Firmware management is another key aspect. Valve occasionally releases firmware updates that tweak performance, improve compatibility, or patch security issues. While most users won’t need to mess with the BIOS manually, knowing how it functions can help if you decide to tweak advanced settings, install a different OS, or troubleshoot hardware-related issues.
How to Access the Steam Deck BIOS Files
If you ever need to change settings, troubleshoot hardware issues, or install a different operating system, accessing the Steam Deck’s BIOS is the first step. However, do it at your own risk. Thankfully, Valve has made it pretty straightforward.
How to Enter the Steam Deck BIOS
- Power off your Steam Deck, making sure it’s completely shut down.
- Press and hold the Volume Up button.
- While still holding Volume Up, press and release the Power menu button.
- Hold Volume Up until the Steam Deck logo appears. Then, you’ll be taken to the BIOS setup menu (also called the Boot Manager).
What to Expect in the BIOS Setup
Once inside, you’ll see a simple interface with several options, including:
- Boot Manager: You can select different boot options, such as booting from a microSD card or USB drive.
- Setup Utility: This lets you adjust advanced system settings, like secure boot options and firmware updates.
- EFI Shell: A command-line interface for advanced users who want deeper system control.
The Boot Manager will be the most helpful section for most users, especially if you’re trying to install an alternate OS like Windows. The BIOS setup is designed to be simple, but be cautious, as changing the wrong settings could affect how your Steam Deck runs. If you’re unsure, leaving the default settings alone is best.
Automatic BIOS Update Process
Unlike traditional PCs, where you might need to manually download and flash BIOS updates, the Steam Deck handles this process automatically. Valve integrates BIOS updates directly into Steam OS, making it seamless for users.
How Valve Manages BIOS Updates
Valve pushes BIOS updates as part of SteamOS firmware updates. These updates typically include performance improvements, bug fixes, and security patches.
The best part is that you don’t have to worry about manually downloading or installing anything, as Valve ensures that your Steam Deck is always running the latest firmware.
Checking for System Updates Through the Steam Menu
To ensure your Steam Deck’s BIOS files are up to date, follow these steps:
- Scroll down and select Settings.
- Navigate to System.
- Under the “Software Updates” section, check for any available updates.
- If an update is available, install it and restart your Steam Deck.
Since BIOS updates are bundled with SteamOS updates, they’ll install automatically when you update your system. There’s no need to enter the BIOS or do anything manually; keep your Steam Deck updated, and Valve will take care of the rest.
Best Steam Deck BIOS Settings and Configuration Options
While most Steam Deck users won’t need to touch the BIOS menu, knowing what’s available can help if you’re troubleshooting, installing another OS, or optimizing system performance. The BIOS setup utility offers a range of configuration options that control how the Steam Deck operates on a deeper level.
Exploring the BIOS Setup Utility
To access the BIOS files, power off your Steam Deck, then hold the Volume Up button while pressing the Power button. This takes you to the Boot Manager, where you can navigate to the BIOS setup utility. The interface is simple, with different sections for adjusting system behavior.
Key Configuration Settings
Inside the BIOS, you’ll find various options, including:
- Secure Boot: Controls whether the system only boots signed operating systems.
- TPM (Trusted Platform Module): A security feature for installing Windows 11.
- Fan Control Settings: Adjusts cooling behavior, though Valve optimizes this through Steam OS updates.
Long-Term Storage Mode
If you plan to store your Steam Deck for an extended period, the BIOS includes a Long-Term Battery Storage Mode option. This discharges the battery to a safe level (40%) to prevent degradation, which is helpful if you won’t use your Deck for weeks or months.
Boot Manager Functionality
The Boot Manager lets you choose which drive or partition to boot from, making it essential for installing Windows, dual-booting Steam OS, or booting from an external USB device.
Display and Version Information
The BIOS also provides firmware details, showing the current version and other system information. This is useful for troubleshooting or checking if your Deck runs the latest firmware.
Overall, while the BIOS isn’t something you need to tweak daily, knowing what it offers can be helpful for customization, security, and maintenance.
Troubleshooting BIOS Update Issues
While Steam Deck BIOS updates are designed to be seamless, issues can occasionally arise. If something goes wrong during an update, it’s essential to know how to troubleshoot effectively to avoid serious problems.
Common Problems During BIOS Updates
- Update Fails to Install: Sometimes, a BIOS update won’t complete due to internet issues, system corruption, or power interruptions.
- Steam Deck Won’t Boot: If the update is interrupted, the system may fail to start properly and get stuck on a black screen.
- Firmware Version Doesn’t Change: The BIOS version might not reflect the latest release even after an update.
Potential Error Resolution Strategies
- Restart the Device: A simple restart of the Steam Deck can resolve minor update glitches.
- Check Internet Connection: Ensure your Steam Deck has a stable internet connection before updating.
- Manually Reinstall Steam OS: If the update fails repeatedly, try reinstalling the Steam operating system through the Recovery Mode.
- Perform a Power Cycle: Hold the Power button for 10 seconds to force shutdown, then turn the Deck back on.
When to Seek Professional Support
If your Steam Deck becomes unresponsive or won’t boot after a BIOS update, advanced troubleshooting may be required.
In these cases, we recommend the following:
- Contact Valve Support for official guidance.
- Consider RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) if the system is still under warranty and the issue persists.
Recommendations for Safe Update Practices
- Keep Your Steam Deck Plugged In: This helps prevent power loss during updates.
- Avoid Interrupting the Update Process: Let it finish updating completely before restarting your device.
- Regularly Check for Updates: Staying up to date with updates ensures optimal performance and security.
Following these steps can minimize risks and effectively handle BIOS update issues.
