Have you ever dreamed of enjoying your Steam game library wirelessly or on different devices? Whether you want to play wirelessly, share your PC games with family, or simply discover a different way to enjoy your favorite titles , the options have grown, and with them, the tips and tricks to get the most out of them.
However, to achieve a smooth and headache-free experience, there are a few details you should know. In this article, we'll tell you everything—and when we say everything, we mean everything you need to know—about playing Steam games on Android TV and other Smart TVs with Steam Link, from the best controllers to the most common problems and how to avoid them.
What is Steam Link and how does it change the way you play?
Steam Link is a solution created by Valve that lets you stream your Steam games from your home PC to other devices connected to the same local network. This allows you to play on a laptop, tablet, smartphone, Android TV, compatible Smart TV, and even VR headsets. Its magic lies in the fact that all the processing power needed to run the games is provided by your computer; what you see on your TV or device is the streamed video of the game, with the controls transmitted back to your PC in real time.
Initially, Valve released a dedicated device called Steam Link, but after discontinuing its production, the functionality was moved to a free app available for Android, iOS, Windows, and some Smart TV platforms. The only requirement is that the PC where your games are installed must be turned on and running Steam with Remote Play enabled . This system is similar to cloud gaming, but in this case, the server is your own computer.
Steam Link Requirements and Compatible Devices
The first step is to ensure you meet the minimum requirements for Steam Link to function correctly. Here are the essential points to keep in mind before you start playing:
- A PC with Steam installed, turned on and connected to the local network with Remote Play enabled
- A compatible Smart TV, Android TV device, Chromecast, Fire TV, or any Android, iOS, Windows, or macOS device that can be installed with the Steam Link app
- A compatible controller or keyboard and mouse for the games you want to play
- Fast and stable Internet connection: : A minimum of 50 Mbps is recommended to obtain good image quality and avoid annoying input lag.
Regarding operating systems, most Android TV Smart TVs can download the app from the Play Store . Samsung TVs with Tizen usually have the app in their own store (Samsung Apps), although it's worth checking as availability may vary depending on the model. LG devices with their webOS system, like Hisense with VIDAA, don't have official Steam Link support, but you can always connect an Android TV Box or Fire TV via HDMI.
Can't find the app on your Smart TV? Don't worry, you can install it via sideload by downloading the file from Valve's official repository, although this process is a bit more technical and sometimes requires enabling unknown sources or using a file manager. Note: Manual installation on Fire TVs can be more complicated, but it's also possible.
Which controllers work best with Steam Link?
One of the secrets to enjoying the best Steam gaming experience on your TV is choosing the right controller. Steam boasts compatibility with virtually any controller that can connect to your device , but there are important nuances to consider:
- Xbox Controller (360, One, Series): These are the most recommended thanks to their native compatibility with the XInput API. If you use them with the official Wireless Adapter, they work over Wi-Fi Direct and offer lower latency than connecting via Bluetooth, which is essential for the controller to respond instantly.
- PlayStation controller: Fully functional, although it displays different symbols than the standard one used in many PC games.
- Nintendo Switch Pro Controller: It is compatible and with the latest version of the app its operation has been optimized, although remember that A and B, as well as X and Y, are swapped with respect to the Xbox standard.
- Steam ControllerPerfectly valid, although officially discontinued, it's still available in secondhand stores. It requires batteries, so it's best to use rechargeable ones so you don't run out of power in the middle of a game.
- Other compatible controllers: Logitech models (such as F512, F710), Nacon for PS4 and other PC controllers in general.
You can also connect a keyboard and mouse via USB or Bluetooth, although for playing on the sofa with two people, a controller will always be more practical. Additionally, mobile phones and tablets offer touch controls , although this isn't the best option for games designed for analog sticks and triggers.
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Steps to install Steam Link according to your TV or device
Let's start with the process, which is simple but varies slightly depending on the type of device:
- Android TV or ChromecastDownload Steam Link from the Play Store and install it. Open the app and follow the steps to find the PC on the same local network. Confirm the PIN it asks for and link the controller to your Android TV, not directly to the television.
- Samsung Smart TV (Tizen): Search for the app in Samsung Apps. If it doesn't appear, it may not be compatible with your specific model or the version of Tizen you're using.
- Apple devices (Apple TV, iPhone, iPad)Install Steam Link from the App Store. The PC linking process is the same, and you can play with either a controller or on-screen controls (not recommended for action games).
- Fire TV or Android TV BoxIf your TV doesn't support the app, connect one of these devices to HDMI and follow the standard Android TV process.
In all cases, you must have your PC turned on and Steam open so the app can locate the computer and connect it to the TV. If you can't physically access your PC, you can manage it remotely with applications like a controller manager, although this may require some extra setup if no one is home.
Tips to optimize the experience and reduce input lag
One of the main challenges when streaming games on your TV is input lag , that small but annoying delay between what you press on the controller and what happens in the game. While latency depends on network quality and the distance between devices, you can minimize it by following these tips:
- Use Ethernet (wired) connection on both PC and TV or Android TVWi-Fi is convenient but less stable; if you can connect both devices via cable to the router, the difference is noticeable.
- Avoid saturating the network when you go to play. If someone else is downloading large files, watching 4K videos, or using streaming services, the game's quality will suffer.
- Try the “Wi-Fi lock” feature in the Steam Link app, which helps maintain connection stability by reducing interruptions.
- Follow the network test recommendations that the app offers. Steam Link analyzes your connection and guides you on the best settings for the best possible quality.
Even with good coverage, there may be some lag, especially in large homes or with routers far apart. But by connecting both devices via cable and closing other applications that use the network, the experience is very close to playing directly from your PC.
Recent Steam Link Updates and Improvements
Valve continues to improve the Steam Link app with each update, and the latest versions have brought some very juicy new features:
- HDR support in 1080p and 4K resolutions, making the graphics much more vivid and attractive if your Android TV or television is compatible.
- Support for the AV1 codec, which optimizes video quality but requires a powerful PC to truly take advantage of it. Not all Android TV devices support this codec, as is the case with the Nvidia Shield TV and Shield TV Pro.
- Surround audio If your TV allows it, offering superior immersion compared to traditional stereo sound.
- Expanded compatibility with over 500 new Android devices, making it easy for almost any modern Android TV to use Steam Link.
- Disabling Low Latency Audio for those who prefer to prioritize sound fidelity over immediacy.
- Additional language support and automatic switches to English if there are problems with non-Latin character fonts.
Other alternatives for playing PC games on TV
Steam Link isn't the only option, and depending on your hardware or preferences, there are other interesting alternatives like PlayGalaxy Link, which allows you to connect to your Steam library and other cloud platforms with greater flexibility.
GeForce NOW
NVIDIA's cloud gaming service lets you play your Steam games and other platform games directly on your TV , without needing a powerful PC at home. Simply install the GeForce NOW app (available on Samsung Smart TVs since 2021, LG, Android TV, Google TV, and NVIDIA Shield) and link your account.
The big advantage is that the server is provided by NVIDIA , so you get access to cutting-edge hardware with RTX graphics cards. The downside is that, while there's a limited free option, to play in 4K, with HDR, or for longer periods, you'll need to pay for an Ultimate subscription (around €21 per month) in addition to the cost of the device itself in the case of the Nvidia Shield.
Keep in mind that you need to connect the gamepad directly to the TV, even with GeForce NOW , and that the library depends on each platform's agreements. Some games like Fortnite can be played for free, but most require you to have purchased them on Steam or another compatible digital store.
Xbox Game Pass
Microsoft also offers cloud gaming with Xbox Cloud Gaming, included in a Game Pass subscription . It allows access to over 100 games without needing to purchase them upfront and is a very economical alternative if you like to switch games frequently.
The service can be used on Samsung Smart TVs (by installing the app from the store), LG TVs, and Android TVs via the app on the Play Store. The game selection is enormous, although integration with Steam isn't direct: here you access the games in the Game Pass catalog.
Amazon Moon
Amazon has entered the world of cloud gaming with Luna , an option well-integrated into Amazon devices but also accessible from browsers and some Samsung and LG televisions. If you have Amazon Prime, you can enjoy a rotating selection of games at no extra cost, and for just €10 a month, you can access Luna+ for an even wider catalog. It also allows you to link Ubisoft and GOG accounts, which expands the possibilities.
It doesn't require a specific controller ; you can use any Bluetooth gamepad or even a mobile phone as a virtual controller. It's one of the most flexible options if you have several different devices at home.
Things to consider depending on your type of TV
- Android TV and Google TV: Maximum compatibility and integration with the Steam Link app, GeForce NOW, Xbox Game Pass, and Amazon Luna.
- Samsung Smart TV (Tizen): Good support for Steam Link and GeForce NOW, although check the list of available apps based on your model.
- LG Smart TV (webOS): Limited support, primarily for GeForce NOW, Luna, and Game Pass; the Steam Link app is not officially available.
- Fire TV or Android TV Box: A universal solution to make any TV ready to receive streaming games.
Remember that image quality, latency, and compatibility can vary greatly from model to model, and that in many cases, the key lies in the quality of your local network and the controller you use.
Advantages and disadvantages of playing on TV with Steam Link
- Access your Steam library from anywhere in the house: You can play almost all of your favorite titles on your TV, mobile phone, or tablet, regardless of the power of the receiving device.
- Free and without time limits: Valve does not charge anything to use Steam Link, unlike other cloud gaming solutions.
- You don't need high-end hardware on the receiving device: The PC is the one who does all the hard work.
- Excellent compatibility with a huge range of devices and controls.
- The main drawback is the input lag.: Although it can be minimized, it will never be the same as playing directly on the PC, especially if there are network obstacles or interference.
- Requires the PC to be on and connected to the grid, which may not be practical for everyone.
- Some platforms and Smart TVs are not fully supported.: Especially devices with proprietary systems such as webOS or VIDAA.
What about virtual reality?
Steam Link also allows you to stream virtual reality games from your PC to Meta Quest and other compatible headsets. It's a fantastic option for those who want to enjoy their favorite VR games anywhere in the house, as long as their network is fast and stable enough.
In essence, Steam Link turns your PC into the heart of a super-flexible gaming ecosystem , where you can jump from TV to mobile, experiment with surround sound, HDR, and cloud gaming alternatives according to your preferences or budget.
Once properly configured, this system offers a very versatile and accessible experience to take full advantage of your PC game library on different devices, while maintaining good image quality and responsiveness.
