SteamOS propels Linux to record 5.33% share in latest Steam Survey

The latest Steam Hardware and Software Survey results for March 2026 show Linux crossing the 5% market share threshold for the first time in the platform's history. According to the data, Linux-based systems jumped to 5.33% of the total user base, a massive 3.10% increase over the previous month.

As noted by Phoronix, this surge is likely due to the continued success of Valve’s SteamOS, which now accounts for 24.48% of the Linux install base, as well as broader improvements in compatibility through the Proton translation layer. As for Windows, it remains the dominant force with a 92.33% share, but it saw a 4.28% decline as more users began exploring alternatives. Within the Windows ecosystem, the transition to Windows 11 has accelerated, with the operating system now claiming 66.85% of the market after a 10.57% monthly gain. This migration came largely at the expense of Windows 10, which plummeted by nearly 15% to settle at 25.36%. Even the ageing Windows 7 saw a uptick to 0.08%, suggesting a small but dedicated group of users is still clinging to the legacy platform.

Image credit: Phoronix

Mac users also contributed to the diversifying ecosystem, with macOS seeing its market share nearly double to 2.35%. This 1.19% increase suggests that Apple's continued push into gaming with its M-series silicon is finally starting to move the needle, even if it still trails Linux by a significant margin. Beyond operating systems, the hardware data highlights the impact of rising component costs, as 16 GB of system RAM reclaimed the top spot from 32 GB, now holding a 40.97% share. In the GPU sector, the RTX 3060 has returned to its position as the most popular card, while the newer RTX 5070 has established a strong 5.40% foothold among early adopters.

KitGuru says: Gaming on Linux is definitely becoming more popular. Seeing Linux surpass 5% while Windows 10 users jump ship in massive numbers suggests a major hardware refresh cycle is underway. Whether gamers are moving to Windows 11 by choice or being pushed by the lack of Windows 10 support, the reality is that the PC gaming market is becoming more varied than it has been in decades.

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