Factory resetting a Steam Deck can be an essential solution if you’re facing software issues, looking to clear all user data before selling the device, or simply attempting to start fresh with a blank slate. This complete guide will walk you through the necessary steps to safely and efficiently restore your Steam Deck to its original factory settings.

Before proceeding with a factory reset, it’s important to back up any important data such as game saves, screenshots, and personal files. Once the reset process begins, all data on the Steam Deck will be erased.

Step 1: Fully charge your Steam Deck or keep it connected to the power supply throughout this process to prevent any interruptions due to battery issues.

Step 2: Navigate to the ‘System Settings’ from the Steam Deck’s main menu. You can find this by tapping on the ‘Steam’ button and selecting ‘Settings’ from the dropdown menu.

Step 3: In ‘System Settings,’ go down to the ‘System’ category and select it.

Step 4: Scroll until you see an option that says ‘Recovery,’ and select it.

Step 5: Within the ‘Recovery’ page, you will find an option that reads ‘Factory Reset.’ Choose this option carefully. The system might ask you for confirmation before proceeding because this step cannot be undone.

Step 6: After confirming your intent to reset, the system will begin the factory reset process. This might take some time, so be patient. It is crucial not to turn off or interrupt the Steam Deck during this operation.

Step 7: Once the factory reset is complete, your device will restart. You’ll be greeted with a fresh setup screen just like when you first powered on your Steam Deck.

Follow the on-screen prompts to set up your system anew. This will include connecting to Wi-Fi, logging into your Steam account, and possibly downloading updates.

A factory reset is a powerful tool for maintaining your device’s performance or preparing it for a new owner. By following these steps, you can ensure that your Steam Deck is returned to its original state without unnecessary complications or errors. Remember always to protect your data first before initiating a factory reset, as this process is irreversible and will delete everything stored on your device’s internal SSD.