Steam Overlay is a powerful feature that enhances your gaming experience by providing quick access to Steam’s community and various functionalities without leaving your game. It allows you to chat with friends, browse the web, and seamlessly manage game settings.
If you’re new to Steam or need a refresher, here’s a step-by-step guide on enabling Steam Overlay. You can watch the video below or continue reading the article.
Also read: How to check Steam storage space on Windows 11?
What is Steam Overlay?
Steam Overlay is an in-game interface provided by the Steam client. It allows users to access Steam community features, manage screenshots, chat with friends, browse the web, and use other Steam features without leaving the game. By default, the overlay is bound to the Shift + Tab key combination, but this can be customised.
Why enable Steam Overlay?
Enabling Steam Overlay offers several benefits:
- Communication: Easily chat with friends or join group chats while in-game.
- Web browsing: Look up game guides, walkthroughs, or other web resources without leaving the game.
- Screenshots: Capture and manage screenshots quickly.
- Notifications: Stay updated with friends’ activities, achievements, and game invites.
- Access to Steam features: Quickly purchase in-game items, check game progress and more.
How to enable Steam Overlay?
Enabling Steam Overlay involves a few simple steps. You can enable it globally for all games or on a per-game basis. Here are the steps:
Enable Steam Overlay for all games
If you wish to enable Steam Overlay for all your games on Steam then follow the steps below:
Step 1: Launch the Steam app and click on the Steam tab at the top left corner of the screen.

Step 2: In the dropdown, click on the Settings option.

Step 3: Now, tap on the In Game option in the sidebar and then turn the toggle on beside Enable the Steam Overlay while in-game option.

Enabling Steam Overlay for specific games
If you want to enable or disable Steam Overlay for specific games:
Step 1: Launch Steam, then click on the Library tab.

Step 2: In the Library, right-click on the game that is not closing and then click on the Properties option in the dropdown menu.

Step 3: In the General tab, checkmark the box beside Enable the Steam Overlay while in-game option.

Enabling Steam Overlay can greatly enhance your gaming experience by providing seamless access to essential Steam features without interrupting your gameplay. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily activate and customise Steam Overlay to suit your needs.
Also read: How to stop Steam from opening on startup?