Table of Contents

The Best Browser for Linux

Introduction

One of the most common questions from new Steam Deck users is, "How do you browse the internet with this thing?" While the Steam Deck comes with Firefox preinstalled, it's not accessible in Gaming Mode—the default interface. To use Firefox, you have to manually add it as a non-Steam game in Desktop Mode.

Fortunately, there are scripts[1] that enable Firefox, installed via Flatpak, to function within Gaming Mode. These scripts utilize KWin on top of Gamescope (Gaming Mode's Wayland compositor), allowing users to enjoy tab switching and other browser conveniences.

However, beyond configuring Firefox, there are many browsers available on Linux. Considering the unique form factor of the Steam Deck, its hardware constraints, and the limitations of its operating system, let's answer the question: Which browser is the best fit for the Steam Deck?

Challenges

The Steam Deck's operating system, SteamOS, and its hardware present unique challenges for browsing. For instance:

No Native Autocorrect or Spelling Suggestions

While the OS includes an on-screen keyboard, it lacks key features like autocorrect and spelling suggestions.

Limited Voice Typing Support

Though the device has built-in microphones, SteamOS doesn’t natively support voice typing.

Typing on the Steam Deck often involves using the trackpads to mimic left and right mouse clicks, which works but can be cumbersome for prolonged sessions.

Extensions to address these gaps

Luckily, some browsers and extensions address these gaps:

There are plenty of more, you just have to make an effort to visit your browser's extension store.

Browser Engines

Modern browsers are built on two primary engines:

Powers popular browsers like Chrome, Edge, and Safari.

Quantum

Powers Firefox and other Firefox-based browsers such as but not limited to: Florp, Zen, Waterfox and Tor.

For technical users, the choice of browser often hinges on the strengths and weaknesses of these engines. For non-technical users, the focus is more on features and usability rather than the underlying technology.

Recommendations

I have split the recommendation to two. Two browsers per engine, this is because although I recommend Quantum based browsers by default (mainly because of extended support for manifest v2 extensions such as ublock origin), there are use-cases where Webkit is better such as playing browser games.

Additionally, I do disregard if the browser is either proprietary or not. Given that most people who use the Deck do not care about it anyways (considering that Steam is proprietary) so there will be proprietary browsers in the list

Here are the browsers I recommend:

Webkit and derivatives based browsers

Figure 1. Customized Vivaldi running on Steam deck
  1. Vivaldi - My top pick if you are looking for a chromium based browser. This is because Vivaldi packs alot of features to boot and some of its features are better suited for the Deck such as Built in clock in the user interface, Notes and Reading List with sync and Adjustable user interface
  2. Edge - Unsurprisingly, Edge is also a good pick if you are looking for a chromium based browser. Although it does not contain the features Vivaldi has that I have listed above, it does have features better suited for a browser user such as Built in coupon finder and Built in image editor
Figure 2. Edge running on Steam deck

It should be noted that these two browsers offer alot more than what I listed but for me these are the features that I find killer for them. Some of the features that I did not list is a way to group tabs, split view, other sort of syncing (sending files from different devices), etc.

Quantum based browsers

Figure 3. Firefox running on Steam deck
  1. Firefox - The one best and most customizable browser. You can adjust Firefox's user interface via userChrome.css (same approach covered in the [Opening unlimited tabs with Firefox article[3]](https://www.richardorilla.website/firefox-unlimited-tabs-setup.html)(same approach covered in the [Opening unlimited tabs with Firefox article[3]](https://www.richardorilla.website/firefox-unlimited-tabs-setup.html) last month). There is even a listing of popular userChrome CSS themes[4] themes but if you prefer other hacks such as tabs on bottom and alike, there is a popular github repository[5] for that as well.
  2. Zen - You may not enjoy the same customizability level compare to Firefox because this browser is heavily modified from the ground up. The user interface is easier to customize and offering plethora of options. It has most of my favorite extensions preinstalled (or offers something similar to) such as auto tab discard and containers. Take note that this browser is still in the beta stages as I am writing this article, so you may encounter bugs here and there. For example, the GPU acceleration does not work on my Surface device for some reason
Figure 4. Zen running on Steam deck

It should be noted that the links are already provided in the browser name, but to be more specific, these are flatpak links. Since I do encourage that flatpaks are used to ensure minimal interruptions during any SteamOS version upgrades.

Decky Browser plugin

I am quite aware of the Decky Browser plugin but I highly discourage it being used because aside from the security concerns it highlights, it lacks extension support, sync and quite frankly crashes from time to time causing the whole gaming mode to break.

Figure 5. Decky Browser plugin warning

My top pick

For me, my recommended browser is Vivaldi. Vivaldi just hits the right spot when browsing on the Steam Deck. It’s packed with features that cater to both casual browsing and more specific use cases, making it an ideal choice for the Deck's unique form factor and operating environment.

Why Vivaldi Works Best

Feature-Rich Interface

Vivaldi’s customizable user interface allows for optimal usability on the Steam Deck. For instance, you can place tabs at the bottom alongside the address bar, which pairs perfectly with Steam’s on-screen keyboard appearing at the top. This design prevents the keyboard from obstructing your view.

Reading List for Light Reading

I often do light reading on the Deck, and the built-in Reading List feature is incredibly convenient. Unlike relying on third-party services or extensions, Vivaldi’s native Reading List syncs across devices, ensuring seamless access to articles and content without additional setup.

Performance with Browser Games

Some browser games perform noticeably better on WebKit-based browsers like Vivaldi compared to Quantum-based alternatives. Whether it’s the rendering speed or compatibility with certain web technologies, Vivaldi handles these games with ease, making it my go-to choice for this use case.

Additional Handy Features

Vivaldi includes tools like a built-in clock, notes, and syncing capabilities for bookmarks and settings. These features enhance productivity and browsing convenience without relying on external tools.

Closing Thoughts

While other browsers excel in certain areas, Vivaldi strikes the perfect balance for Steam Deck users. Its combination of customizability, native features, and performance makes it stand out among the competition. Whether I’m reading, playing browser games, or simply navigating the web, Vivaldi consistently delivers a superior experience.

Furthermore, I have written modifications out of finewolf's bash script for launching Firefox for Edge, Vivaldi and Zen. They can be downloaded here

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