Windows continues to lose gamers to Linux, but they might be jumping ship at a bad time

Linux is gaining ground among PC gamers, with Steam Hardware Survey data showing Linux user share doubling to over 5% between December 2025 and March 2026. Valve's Proton compatibility layer is a key driver. Meanwhile, Microsoft appears to be responding to user exodus with a renewed commitment to improving Windows 11 quality. The author advises gamers considering switching to Linux to wait and see if Microsoft follows through on promised improvements before fully committing to the switch.