Can you minimize Steam?

Can You Minimize Steam?

When it comes to playing games on Steam, one common question that players often ask is whether they can minimize the Steam client. After all, having multiple applications open at the same time can be overwhelming, especially for those who like to multitask. In this article, we’ll dive into the various ways to minimize Steam and explore its different features.

Yes, You Can Minimize Steam!

The short answer is yes, you can minimize Steam. But before we dive into the methods, let’s discuss why you might want to do so.

Why Minimize Steam?

Minimizing Steam can be beneficial in several ways:

• Conserve Screen Space: With multiple windows open, it can get cluttered quickly. Minimizing Steam allows you to free up space on your screen, making it easier to focus on other applications.
• Improve Performance: Closing unnecessary programs can improve your computer’s performance by reducing system resource usage.
• Enhance Multitasking: With Steam minimized, you can focus on other tasks without distractions.

How to Minimize Steam

There are several ways to minimize Steam, and we’ll cover them below:

Method 1: Use the Windows Key + M

One quick way to minimize Steam is to use the Windows key + M keyboard shortcut. This will minimize all open windows, including Steam.

Method 2: Right-Click and Minimize

Right-click on the Steam icon in the system tray and select "Minimize" to minimize the client.

Method 3: Use the Steam Settings

You can also minimize Steam by going to the Steam settings and checking the box next to "Minimize to system tray" under the "Behavior" tab.

How to Force a Game to Run in a Windowed Mode

Some games may not run in a windowed mode by default. Here’s how to force a game to run in a windowed mode:

1. Right-click on the game icon in the Steam library and select "Properties."
2. Click on the "Set Launch Options" button.
3. In the text box, add the following line: -windowed (without quotes).
4. Click "OK" to save the changes.
5. Launch the game to see it run in a windowed mode.

How to Run Steam Games in Borderless Window Mode

Running a Steam game in borderless window mode allows you to customize the game’s window settings. Here’s how:

1. Right-click on the game icon in the Steam library and select "Properties."
2. Click on the "Set Launch Options" button.
3. In the text box, add the following line: -popupwindow (without quotes).
4. Click "OK" to save the changes.
5. Launch the game to see it run in a borderless window mode.

Conclusion

In conclusion, minimizing Steam is a simple process that can be achieved through various methods. Whether you want to conserve screen space, improve performance, or enhance multitasking, minimizing Steam is a great way to achieve your goals. By understanding the different ways to minimize Steam, you can tailor your gaming experience to fit your needs.

Table: Minimizing Steam Methods

Table: Running Steam Games in Windowed Mode