Version 2026-09-06 · Freeware · Windows · macOS · Linux
Looking for an alternative to Steam?Compare Epic Games Launcher, GOG Galaxy.Compare alternativesWith Steam, install and manage games from your Steam library. You will find updates together and, where a game supports them, you can use additional features such as cloud storage.
Your library shows which games belong to your account. Check the system requirements per game before installing or buying. You can also choose the appropriate drive to store your games if you want to distribute storage space.
Download Steam
Downloads are available for Windows, macOS, Linux.
Compare Steam with alternatives
Compare game clients on your existing library, social features and the games you want to buy or start. A launcher does not automatically transfer purchases from another store. Some clients show external games, but still need the original service before starting.
| Software | What can it do? | Platform and licence |
|---|---|---|
| SteamYou are viewing this app | You manage your Steam library with downloads, updates and community features. Available cloud storage and additional features vary per game. | Windows, macOS, LinuxFreeware |
| Epic Games LauncherView this alternative | You install and manage games from the Epic Games Store and use Epic services. Your purchases remain linked to that platform. | Windows, macOSFreeware |
| GOG GalaxyView this alternative | You manage GOG games and can bring external libraries together via integrations. For games of other services the original client may remain necessary. | Windows, macOSFreeware |
Choose an alternative to explore its features, system requirements and download options.
Who is it for?
This helps when you buy or use PC games that are offered via Steam. It fits a collection that you want to manage in one place. For each game other possibilities can apply, such as controller support, multiplayer or additional services; assess them separately.
Getting started
Secure your account and check the installation folder. First install a game that you know your computer meets the requirements.
Privacy
Your account includes purchases, library and usage data. Check the visibility of your profile and game activity. Secure the login and be careful with unexpected trade or login links. A message from a known account may still be misleading if that account is taken over.
Good to know
The launcher is free, but many games are paid. Play offline and cloud storage vary per game.
Please note
Not every game works offline. Online functions and extra launchers may require connection. Save important local progress before solving a synchronization conflict. Moreover, a free launcher does not mean that the games or extensions offered are free of charge.
Advantages
- You can centrally manage installations and updates.
- A library makes your Steam games rediscoverable.
- For suitable titles you can prepare play offline and bring supported progress between computers.
Things to consider
- Games have their own requirements and sometimes extra accounts.
- Updates can require a lot of storage and bandwidth.
- Offline use and cloud saves are not a uniform guarantee for your entire library.
Download Steam
The download page opens in a new tab.
Provider’s website · store.steampowered.com
Version history
2026-09-06
You suffer less from unnecessary processing at events in your library. Also, a problem with starting streamed games on Windows 10 has been solved.
Report a new version
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Our verdict
Steam is especially suitable for managing games you use via the platform. You combine library, installation and updates with community functions. The launcher does not automatically make games compatible with your computer. Check the requirements and any additional accounts per title, even when downloading Steam itself runs smoothly.
The decision starts with the games you want to play, not at the launcher as a loose product. View system requirements and any additional accounts per title. For a laptop on the go, whether the installation is fully prepared for offline use. When switching between computers, progress synchronization deserves attention, so that you do not continue with the wrong stored state.
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