ParsecLinux
vs
NVIDIA GeForce NOWWindows
Parsec as a Linux alternative to NVIDIA GeForce NOW
Updated
Our verdict
Parsec can be a good replacement for NVIDIA GeForce NOW if you own a Windows or macOS gaming machine and want to stream games to your Linux device. It delivers low-latency, high-quality game streaming with strong controller and resolution support. However, it doesn't provide cloud-hosted games — you need your own remote PC. This makes it ideal for self-hosted streaming, but not a solution for accessing a cloud game library like GeForce NOW offers.
- License
- LicenseRef-proprietary
- Price
- freemium
- Latest version
- 3.9.9 (May 10, 2024)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both stream games with low latency to remote devices
- Support up to 4K resolution at 60 FPS
- Work across platforms, including Linux clients
- Support gamepad and audio streaming
- Enable cross-session progress via synced game saves
What is different
- Parsec requires your own remote Windows/macOS PC; no cloud game library
- GeForce NOW provides instant access to cloud-hosted games; Parsec does not
- Parsec does not allow Linux machines to be remotely accessed as hosts
- GeForce NOW syncs directly with game stores; Parsec relies on your installed library
- Parsec uses peer-to-peer connections when possible, reducing server costs
Opening your NVIDIA GeForce NOW files
Parsec does not interact with GeForce NOW files or configurations. Since GeForce NOW doesn’t store game files locally or export them, there’s no file migration path. Game progress is typically tied to account logins (like Steam or Epic), which both services can access independently. Parsec runs games installed on your host PC, so you must own and install them there. No conversion or import of GeForce NOW settings is possible or needed.
Switching from NVIDIA GeForce NOW to Parsec, step by step
- Install Parsec on your Windows or macOS gaming PC
- Create a Parsec account and log in on the host machine
- Install the Parsec client on your Linux machine via Flathub
- Log in to the same Parsec account on Linux
- Start streaming from your host PC to Linux over local network or internet
Key features of Parsec
- Streams games and desktops with low latency
- Supports up to 4K resolution at 60 FPS
- End-to-end encryption for secure connections
- Cross-platform: connect from Linux to Windows/macOS
- Peer-to-peer streaming when possible
- Supports gamepad and audio streaming
- Simple, no-configuration setup for local use
- File transfer between host and client
How to install Parsec on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.parsecgaming.parsecFrequently asked questions
Can I use Parsec to stream games from my Linux PC?
No. Parsec only allows Linux devices to connect as clients — you cannot host a remote session from a Linux machine.
Do I need a subscription to use Parsec?
Parsec offers a free tier with solid features for personal use; paid plans add higher resolution and remote access for work or broadcasting.
Can I use my existing game controllers with Parsec on Linux?
Yes. Parsec supports most gamepads and controllers, passing them through to the host PC with low latency.
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