# Linux kernel patch can boost the Steam Deck’s 1% low frame rate by as much as 31% in early testing

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/linux-kernel-patch-can-boost-the-steam-decks-1-low-frame-rate-by-as-much-as-31-in-early-testing/
- Published: 2026-07-29T11:16:35+00:00
- Updated: 2026-07-29T12:23:24+00:00
- Original publisher: PC Gamer
- Original article: https://www.pcgamer.com/hardware/handheld-gaming-pcs/linux-kernel-patch-can-boost-the-steam-decks-1-percent-low-frame-rate-by-as-much-as-31-percent-in-early-testing/
- Topics: Entertainment, Gaming

## Key points

- A Linux patch may make Steam Deck gameplay noticeably smoother.
- Early tests show 1% low gains of up to 31%.
- Results are preliminary and may vary by game.

## Summary

Early testing suggests a proposed Linux kernel patch could significantly improve the Steam Deck’s worst-case gaming performance, with 1% low frame rates reportedly rising by up to 31%. This matters because 1% lows are a useful measure of stutter and frame-time consistency, so an improvement could make demanding games feel smoother even where average frame rates change little.

The result is preliminary and appears to come from a specific testing scenario rather than a guaranteed improvement across all games. The patch has not yet been established as a standard Steam Deck update, so its eventual impact will depend on further testing, kernel adoption and Valve’s software support.

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Summarised by TalkFuse (https://talkfuse.com/). Quote the original publisher for the reporting and link this page for the summary and discussion.