Steam Deck Shader Cache Killer
Scripts to purge or move Steam Deck shader cache and compatibility data to free up internal storage space.
What is Steam Deck Shader Cache Killer?
Steam Deck: Shader Cache Killer is a collection of Bash scripts designed to help Steam Deck users manage storage space consumed by shader cache and compatibility data. It solves the problem of "Other" storage filling up the internal SSD by providing tools to either delete these files or move them to external storage.
Steam Deck owners, particularly those with the 64GB model who need to optimize their internal storage space, and users who dual-boot their Steam Deck with Windows.
It offers a simple, automated solution to a common Steam Deck storage issue that would otherwise require manual file system operations, and it provides flexibility with both deletion and relocation options.
Overview
Script to Purge The Steam Decks Shader Cache
Use Cases
Best For
- Freeing up internal storage on 64GB Steam Deck models
- Managing shader cache accumulation from multiple games
- Moving compatibility data to SD cards for dual-boot setups
- Automating storage cleanup without manual file operations
- Reducing "Other" storage category on Steam Deck
- Optimizing Steam Deck performance by managing cache files
Not Ideal For
- Users who prefer graphical user interfaces over command-line tools
- Those seeking officially supported SteamOS features or automated updates
- Risk-averse individuals uncomfortable with potential data loss or system instability
Pros & Cons
Pros
The zShaderCacheKiller script automatically deletes shader cache and compatibility data, freeing up internal storage without requiring manual file system navigation, as highlighted in the problem and solution sections.
Installation is straightforward via curl commands, such as running 'curl -sSL [URL] | bash' from Konsole, making it quick to set up without complex dependencies.
Scripts can be added to the Steam Library for execution in GameMode, allowing users to run them conveniently during gameplay, as mentioned in the installation instructions.
The zShaderCacheMover script copies cache to SD cards, which is beneficial for dual-boot setups like Windows 11, saving space across operating systems as noted in the README.
Cons
The README explicitly states it has only been tested on one system and advises 'USE AT OWN RISK,' indicating potential unreliability across different Steam Deck configurations or updates.
All operations require using Konsole (terminal), which may be intimidating for non-technical users and lacks a graphical interface for easier management.
Uninstalling involves manually deleting folders (e.g., '/home/deck/.local/share/scawp/SDSCK') and removing Steam links, which could be error-prone and inconvenient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Projects
LudusaviBackup tool for PC game saves
CryoutilitiesA utility to improve performance and help manage storage on Steam Deck.
ShortixA script that creates human readable symlinks for Proton game prefix (Steam Deck / SteamOS)
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