Are Gamers Turning Their Backs on Linux? The Growth Among Steam Users Has Stalled

The monthly survey among Steam users confirms a halt in the growth of Linux as a favored gaming platform among gamers. After reaching a peak in previous months, the share of Linux (which encompasses all the various distributions of the operating system) has declined for two consecutive months, in contrast to Windows.

Microsoft's operating system has returned to growth, likely aided by the new direction of Xbox, which has led to a price cut of the Game Pass and greater focus on gaming, along with the new Xbox mode designed to provide a better gaming experience for users.

Has the Growth of Linux Come to an End?

Linux reached its peak penetration among Steam users in March 2026, with a share of 5.33%. Subsequently, in April 2026, there was a decline to 4.52%. This trend was confirmed by data from May 2026, a month in which Linux recorded a share of only 3.99% of Steam users. At the same time, Windows reached 93.85%, particularly benefiting from the growth of Windows 11, which is now at 69.76%, with a monthly increase of over 2 percentage points.

The Steam survey does not provide a complete picture of the choices made by the users of the platform and does not represent a statistical analysis. However, it is a survey that highlights a trend. For now, in fact, the diffusion of Linux, in all its versions, on Valve's platform has come to a halt, and Windows continues to strengthen its leadership.