How to Install Discord on Steam Deck

The Steam Deck, Valve’s potent handheld gaming PC, has revolutionized portable gaming. Its versatility extends beyond just running Steam’s vast library; it’s a full-fledged Linux-based computer capable of running a wide array of applications. Among the most sought-after additions for any gamer is Discord, the de facto communication platform for online communities. While the Steam Deck doesn’t natively integrate Discord as it does with Steam games, installing it is a straightforward process, unlocking seamless voice and text chat with friends and fellow gamers directly on your device. This guide will walk you through the most effective methods to get Discord up and running on your Steam Deck, ensuring you can stay connected without missing a beat.

Accessing Desktop Mode: The Gateway to Installation

The Steam Deck operates in two primary modes: Gaming Mode and Desktop Mode. Gaming Mode is the streamlined, console-like interface designed for launching and playing games. Desktop Mode, on the other hand, provides a familiar KDE Plasma desktop environment, akin to a standard Linux computer. To install Discord, you’ll need to switch to Desktop Mode.

Navigating to Desktop Mode

1. Power On or Wake Your Steam Deck: Ensure your device is either turned on or woken from sleep.
2. Access the Steam Menu: Press the Steam button located on the bottom left of your controller layout.
3. Select “Power”: In the menu that appears on the left, scroll down and select “Power.”
4. Choose “Switch to Desktop Mode”: Within the Power options, you’ll find “Switch to Desktop Mode.” Select this.
5. Enter Your Password: You may be prompted to enter your user password. This is typically “steam” followed by the last four digits of your device’s serial number, which can be found on the device itself or in your Steam account settings.

Once in Desktop Mode, you’ll see a familiar desktop interface with icons and a taskbar. This is where you’ll perform the Discord installation.

Installing Discord via the Discover Store (Recommended Method)

The most user-friendly and officially supported method for installing applications on the Steam Deck’s Desktop Mode is through the Discover Store, Valve’s curated application marketplace. This method ensures that Discord is installed in a way that is compatible with the Steam Deck’s operating system and allows for easy updates.

Downloading and Installing Discord

1. Open the Discover Store: On your Steam Deck’s desktop, locate and click on the “Discover Store” icon. It typically looks like a shopping bag with a star.
2. Search for Discord: In the Discover Store, you’ll find a search bar, usually at the top or within a search icon. Type “Discord” into the search bar.
3. Select Discord from Results: The search results should display “Discord” (often listed as “Discord”). Click on it to view its application page.
4. Initiate Installation: On the Discord application page, you’ll see an “Install” button. Click this button.
5. Confirm Installation: The store may ask you to confirm the installation and will show you the required permissions. Click “Install” or “OK” to proceed.
6. Wait for Download and Installation: The Discover Store will download and install Discord. This process usually takes a few minutes, depending on your internet connection speed.
7. Launch Discord: Once the installation is complete, the “Install” button will change to “Launch.” You can click this to start Discord for the first time.

After installation, Discord will be accessible from the application menu in Desktop Mode. You can also add a shortcut to your desktop for quicker access.

Alternative Installation: Using the Terminal (Advanced Users)

For users who are more comfortable with command-line interfaces, installing Discord via the terminal is another viable option. This method involves using the flatpak command, as Discord is distributed as a Flatpak package on many Linux systems, including the Steam Deck’s Arch Linux base.

Executing Terminal Commands

1. Open Konsole (Terminal): In Desktop Mode, locate and open the “Konsole” application. This is the default terminal emulator for the Steam Deck.
2. Update Flatpak Repositories: It’s good practice to ensure your Flatpak packages are up to date. Run the following command:
   bash
flatpak update

   This will check for and install any available updates for your installed Flatpaks and their repositories.
3. Install Discord: Now, install Discord using the flatpak install command. The command to install Discord from the Flathub repository (the most common source) is:
   bash
flatpak install flathub com.discordapp.Discord

4. Confirm Installation: The terminal will likely present you with a summary of the packages to be installed and ask for confirmation. Type y and press Enter to proceed.
5. Wait for Download and Installation: The terminal will display the download and installation progress.
6. Launch Discord: Once the installation is complete, you can launch Discord from the application menu or by typing the following command in the terminal:
   bash
flatpak run com.discordapp.Discord


This method offers more granular control but requires familiarity with terminal commands and potential troubleshooting if issues arise.

Integrating Discord with Gaming Mode

While Discord is installed and runs within Desktop Mode, the goal for many is to use it seamlessly while playing games in Gaming Mode. Unfortunately, Discord does not have direct integration with Steam Deck’s Gaming Mode in the same way as Steam games. However, there are workarounds to access it more conveniently.

The Browser Workaround

The easiest way to access Discord while in Gaming Mode is through the built-in web browser, typically Firefox.

1. Launch Firefox in Desktop Mode: Before switching back to Gaming Mode, open Firefox from the Desktop Mode application menu.
2. Navigate to Discord.com: In the Firefox address bar, type discord.com and press Enter.
3. Log In: Log in to your Discord account through the web interface.
4. Keep the Tab Open: Keep the Discord tab open in Firefox.
5. Switch to Gaming Mode: Now, switch back to Gaming Mode by clicking the “Gamer Mode” icon on the desktop or restarting the Steam Deck.
6. Access Browser from Quick Access: While in Gaming Mode, you can access your last-used applications, including Firefox. Press the Steam button, navigate to “Library,” and then select “Recent Apps” or similar. You should be able to find Firefox and reopen the Discord tab.

This method allows for basic text chat and sometimes even voice chat through the browser, although it might not offer the same level of performance or features as the native desktop application.

Limitations and Future Possibilities

It’s important to note that running Discord through the web browser in Gaming Mode can be resource-intensive and may not always provide a smooth experience, especially during demanding gameplay. Furthermore, the integrated voice chat capabilities of the Steam Deck’s hardware might not be fully optimized for browser-based Discord.

Valve is continuously evolving the Steam Deck’s operating system and features. While there’s no official Discord overlay or deep integration for Gaming Mode currently, community efforts and potential future updates from Valve could introduce more seamless ways to use communication platforms like Discord directly within the gaming environment. For now, the Desktop Mode installation remains the most robust solution for full Discord functionality.

By following these steps, you can successfully install and utilize Discord on your Steam Deck, enhancing your social gaming experience and keeping you connected with your communities no matter where you play. Whether you opt for the straightforward Discover Store installation or the more advanced terminal method, the ability to communicate with friends is just a few clicks away on your portable powerhouse.