Epic Games Launcher vs Steam
Epic Games Launcher
store.epicgames.comSteam
store.steampowered.comSide by side
| Figure | Epic Games Launcher | Steam |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | — | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| API | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Spec score · Game Launcher Software | 8.4 (#6) | 8.3 (#9) |
| Spec score · Game launchers | 8.2 (#19) | 9.1 (#5) |
| Headquarters | Cary, North Carolina, USA | Bellevue, Washington, United States |
| Purpose | The Epic Games Launcher provides access to install and launch games from the Epic Games Store Library. | Steam is an online destination for playing, discussing, and creating games. |
| Support | Epic provides a Player Support portal with self-service account recovery, password help, and two-factor-authentication tools. | Steam Support offers personalized help for purchases and account status after sign-in. |
Plans
In their own words
Epic Games Launcher
Epic Games Launcher gives users access to install and launch games in an Epic Games Store library. The launcher is free to install, and Epic offers a new free game every Thursday on mobile and PC. The store is available globally on PC and Mac and worldwide on Android; iPhone and iPad access is limited to specified supported regions. Desktop requirements include Windows 10 64-bit or Windows 11, macOS 13.5 or later, an Intel Core i3 or AMD FX processor, 4GB memory, compatible DirectX 9 graphics and 3GB storage. Many games support cloud saves, and signed-in players can continue progress across devices in supported games. Offline Mode works for eligible installed single-player games, though multiplayer, cloud saves, achievements and other online services may not be available. The launcher supports controllers and automatic updates. Epic accounts support authenticator-app, SMS or email two-factor authentication, parental controls and up to 1,000 friends. Mod support is listed as none. Optional in-app purchases are available.
Steam
Steam is an online destination for playing, discussing, and creating games. Its catalog includes nearly 30,000 games, with game hubs, reviews, achievements, and custom recommendations for discovery. Users can meet others, join groups, form clans, and use text or voice chat. Steam Workshop supports making, finding, and downloading mods and cosmetics for nearly 1,000 supported games. Steam Broadcast streams gameplay live to friends or the community. The Steam Mobile app on iOS and Android supports shopping, account protection, game news, notifications, and community features; Steam Guard can approve sign-ins and confirm trades or Community Market listings. Steamworks provides tools and services for developers and publishers distributing games on Steam. Steam is free, but game and content prices vary and some subscriptions may be free. Content is licensed rather than sold; use may require an account, the client, and an internet connection. Users under 13 may not subscribe, and country-specific age limits may also apply.