Steam Deck downloads too slow? Here's how to speed them up
⚡ Fast fix
- Change storage location: When downloading Steam Deck™ games, many SD cards have a slower storage write speed than the Deck’s internal storage.
- Check Wi-Fi signal and settings: Move closer to your router and turn off Wi-Fi power management on your Steam Deck.
- Change your download region setting: Choose the closest region in your SteamOS™ settings.
- Check for updates: Make sure your Steam Deck runs on the latest system software.
You finally have a new game ready to download on your Steam Deck™, only to watch the progress bar crawl along like you’ve got all weekend to spare. When the download takes longer than the game itself did to convince you to buy it, it’s time to see what’s slowing things down.
At Asurion, many of us are gamers too, so we know waiting around for a download isn’t exactly how anyone planned to spend game time. Here’s how to speed up slow Steam Deck downloads and get to the part you actually care about—playing.
Check your Wi-Fi connection and download region
A weak network signal can slow down downloads on your Steam Deck. On the top right of the Deck’s home screen, check the Wi-Fi icon for signal-strength bars.
Full bars mean a strong connection. If you only have a few bars, or they keep fluctuating, move closer to your router to improve the connection. If the Deck refuses to connect to your network, try simple methods of troubleshooting a Steam Deck that won’t connect to Wi-Fi.
Your Deck’s Wi-Fi power management setting could also be slowing down your downloads. It’s turned on by default to help save the battery. Switching it off can speed things up.
- Press the Steam button, then go to Settings > System.
- Turn on Enable Developer Mode.
- Go back to the Settings sidebar and select Developer.
- Turn off Enable Wifi Power Management.
- Select Restart Now when prompted to apply the change.
Additionally, check your Steam download region, which determines the server you use. A server that’s far away or too busy can slow downloads. Switch to one that’s closer to you.
- Press the Steam button.
- Go to Settings > Downloads > Download region.
- Select the region closest to you. Try a few nearby regions to see which one speeds up downloads.
Don’t ditch it, fix it
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Check your storage: SD card vs. internal SSD storage
When saving downloaded game data, microSD card speed is usually slower than your Deck’s internal storage. Making the internal SSD the default storage may speed up the process.
- Press the Steam button.
- Go to Settings > Storage.
- Select Internal Drive. You’ll see a star icon next to the default storage location.
Experiencing other problems with games stored on your microSD card? Try moving your favorite games to the internal drive or fixing SD card issues on Steam Deck.
Pause background downloads and check for updates
When multiple game updates run at the same time, they compete for your network’s bandwidth, which can make your Steam downloads take longer even if your internet speed is high. To see and pause background downloads, press the Steam button, then go to Downloads.
Outdated Steam Deck software can also drag out downloads. Make sure your system is up-to-date.
- Press the Steam button.
- Go to Settings > System > Software Updates.
- Tap Check For Updates. If an update is available, select Apply to download it.
- Select Restart next to Software Updates to install the update.
If your Steam Deck gets stuck verifying an installation after an update, it may be caught in a verification loop. Reinstalling the affected game can help clear corrupted data.
When a Steam Deck slow download points to a bigger problem
How long a Steam Deck game should take to download depends on multiple factors, including game update size, server load, and internet speed. However, if your Deck is still unusually slow after confirming a stable internet connection, changing your download region, switching from a microSD card to internal storage, and updating your system, there could be a deeper network or hardware issue.
Deciding between a DIY fix and professional repair usually comes down to the problem. If the fix requires handling internal components, it’s best to hire a repair expert.
If you've tried these steps and still need a little help, we're right around the corner. Schedule a repair at the nearest uBreakiFix® by Asurion store and our certified experts can get your device back up and running as soon as the same day.
FAQ
How do I make my Steam Deck download faster?
Use a stable Wi-Fi connection, pause background downloads, choose the closest download region, and use internal storage instead of a microSD card.
Why is my Steam download so slow with good internet?
Steam server congestion, background updates, and storage issues can cause slowdowns, even if your internet speed is high.
How long should a 50 GB game take to download?
It mainly depends on your internet speed and the Steam server you’re using.
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