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DesktopServer vs Steam Link

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

DesktopServer icon
DesktopServer
Steam Link icon
Steam Link

DesktopServer vs Steam Link: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

DesktopServer: DesktopServer is an open source WAMP (Windows, Apache, MySQL and PHP) distribution that allows developers to run web server software on Windows desktops for testing purposes. It is free, easy to install and configure.

Steam Link: Steam Link is a device that allows you to stream Steam games from your PC to any TV in your home over a home network. It provides big picture interface, controller support, and low latency streaming.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature DesktopServer Steam Link
Sugggest Score — —
Category Development Gaming Software
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

DesktopServer
DesktopServer

Description: DesktopServer is an open source WAMP (Windows, Apache, MySQL and PHP) distribution that allows developers to run web server software on Windows desktops for testing purposes. It is free, easy to install and configure.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Steam Link
Steam Link

Description: Steam Link is a device that allows you to stream Steam games from your PC to any TV in your home over a home network. It provides big picture interface, controller support, and low latency streaming.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

DesktopServer
DesktopServer Features
  • Bundled with Apache, MySQL, PHP and other components required for web development
  • Allows running a web server on Windows desktop for testing purposes
  • Open source and free to download and use
  • Easy to install and configure
  • Supports running PHP applications locally
  • Includes phpMyAdmin for MySQL database administration
  • Allows choosing desired versions of Apache, PHP, MySQL etc during setup
  • Portable installation allows running from USB drives
  • Includes web-based DesktopServer control panel
Steam Link
Steam Link Features
  • Streams games from PC to TV
  • Supports Steam Controller
  • Low latency streaming
  • Big picture interface

Pros & Cons Analysis

DesktopServer
DesktopServer
Pros
  • Free and open source
  • Simple installation
  • No need to setup individual components
  • Great for testing websites locally
  • Portable installation
  • Easy to configure
  • Includes useful tools like phpMyAdmin
  • Allows choosing component versions
Cons
  • Not recommended for production use
  • Limited to Windows platform
  • Requires some technical knowledge to configure
  • Not officially supported or updated frequently
  • Lacks advanced administration features
  • Security not hardened for public-facing use
Steam Link
Steam Link
Pros
  • Play PC games on TV
  • Use living room as gaming environment
  • Convenience of streaming over cables
Cons
  • Requires good network connection
  • Limited to Steam games
  • Latency compared to direct connection

Pricing Comparison

DesktopServer
DesktopServer
  • Open Source
Steam Link
Steam Link
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

DesktopServer
DesktopServer
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Steam Link
Steam Link
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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