ProtonPlusLinux
vs
SteamWindows
ProtonPlus as a Linux alternative to Steam
Updated
Our verdict
ProtonPlus is not a full replacement for Steam. It is a tool that manages compatibility layers for games that are already installed through Steam or other launchers. It does not provide a storefront, purchase system, or social networking. It is useful for Linux gamers who want to tweak Proton, Wine, DXVK, or VKD3D settings and keep those tools up‑to‑date, especially if they use multiple launchers. It is not a substitute for Steam’s core client functions.
Feature parity
- License
- GPL-3.0-or-later
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 0.6.8 (September 8, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both interact with Steam game libraries
- Both allow editing of launch options
- Both can notify users about updates
- Both can be scripted via CLI
- Both run on Linux
What is different
- ProtonPlus does not sell or host games
- ProtonPlus lacks Steam’s social features (friends, chat, community hubs)
- ProtonPlus does not manage cloud saves
- ProtonPlus does not handle automatic game updates or patches
- ProtonPlus does not provide a storefront or payment system
Opening your Steam files
ProtonPlus can read a Steam library folder to list installed games, but it does not import or export Steam configuration files such as "config.vdf" or "libraryfolders.vdf". Users must keep their Steam client for library management and purchases.
Switching from Steam to ProtonPlus, step by step
- 1. Keep your Steam client installed for purchases and library management.
- 2. Install ProtonPlus from Flathub or your distro’s package manager.
- 3. Open ProtonPlus, let it scan your Steam library, and select the compatibility tools you want for each game.
- 4. Use ProtonPlus to update or change Proton/Wine/DXVK/VKD3D versions as needed.
- 5. Launch games through ProtonPlus or your chosen launcher to apply the new settings.
- faq
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Key features of ProtonPlus
- Manage Proton, Wine, DXVK, VKD3D and related tools
- Support for Steam, Faugus Launcher, Lutris, Heroic Games Launcher, Bottles, and WineZGUI
- Browse Steam library and change compatibility settings per game
- Edit launch options directly from the interface
- Track downloads and updates with notifications
- CLI support for scripting and automation
How to install ProtonPlus on Linux
Flatpak (Flathub)
flatpak install flathub com.vysp3r.ProtonPlusopenSUSE
sudo zypper install ProtonPlus3 other alternatives to Steam
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