Summary
Take control of your Steam Deck like never before—using a full mouse and keyboard setup connected to your primary computer over a local network with a virtual KVM. The free app Input Leap allows you to switch seamlessly between your Windows, Mac, or Linux desktop and SteamOS, eliminating the hassle of on-screen keyboards and cramped trackpads.
This guide is tailored for Steam Deck users and other handheld devices running SteamOS.
How It Works and Why You’ll Love It
Your computer—be it a MacBook, a Windows gaming rig, or a compact Linux system—already has the peripherals you need. While the Steam Deck is designed for Game Mode, its Desktop Mode offers a full Linux environment for more advanced tasks.
Using the built-in controls is functional but often cumbersome. You can connect external mice and keyboards, but imagine using the trusted devices you already have at your workspace! Enter the virtual KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine), which allows you to seamlessly switch between multiple operating systems without extra hardware.
With one machine acting as a server, your mouse actions can effortlessly transition from one screen to another. For Steam Deck users, this is particularly beneficial in Desktop Mode. After six months with my Steam Deck OLED, I can attest that the on-screen keyboard and trackpad are not ideal for efficient navigation. Having real peripherals at your disposal makes a significant difference.
A virtual KVM allows for smooth file management, efficient typing of lengthy commands, and browsing without the usual limitations. Using your Steam Deck with proper peripherals transforms it into a much more practical computer.
Setting Up Your KVM Server
To get started, we’ll use Input Leap, the open-source virtual KVM app once known as Barrier. Both the host and client need to be on the same local network.
Step 1: Download Input Leap on your server device—this is the machine that will control your other devices. It supports Windows, macOS (with specific versions for Apple silicon and Intel), and various Linux distributions.
Step 2: After downloading, install and launch the app. On macOS, you may need to navigate to System Preferences > Privacy & Security to allow the app to run, as it might not be signed.
Step 3: Follow the on-screen setup wizard to designate your computer as the server. In the “Screens and links” setup, configure where your Steam Deck will appear by dragging the screen icon.
Step 4: Name your screen (e.g., “steamdeck”) and click OK.
Extra Mac setup: Right-click the Input Leap app, select “Show Package Contents,” and navigate to the file you need to drag into the System Settings for it to work properly. Grant any necessary permissions.
Step 5: Now click “Start” to activate the server.
Configuring Your Steam Deck as a Virtual KVM Client
Next, you’ll set up your Steam Deck to connect to the server.
Step 1: If on Game Mode, hold the power button and select “Switch to Desktop” to access the SteamOS desktop.
Step 2: Launch the Discover store from the SteamOS menu, and search for “Input Leap.” Install the app.
Step 3: After installation, run the app and choose your Steam Deck as a client device during the setup process.
Step 4: Ensure that the screen name matches what you set on your server. Finally, click “Start” and confirm the connection when prompted.
Enjoying a Better SteamOS Experience
With everything set up, simply move your mouse to the edge of the designated screen to control your Steam Deck. Your keyboard will switch seamlessly as well. This setup allows for full control, just as if your keyboard and mouse were directly connected to the Steam Deck.
Keep in mind that while Input Leap can wake your Steam Deck’s display, it won’t wake it from suspend mode after inactivity, so you might need to adjust the power settings for uninterrupted use.
Sharing your clipboard allows for easy copying and pasting between devices, making multitasking effortless. For optimal usability, consider adding Input Leap to your Steam Deck’s startup items.
With the virtual KVM always running, jumping into Desktop Mode means you can immediately use your existing keyboard and mouse to navigate your Steam Deck. This solution notably enhances my Steam Deck experience and eliminates the frustration of using physical keyboards or the trackpad.
This setup isn’t exclusive to the Steam Deck; it works with any handheld device running SteamOS, including the Legion GO. Happy gaming!
