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Microsoft Store vs Steam
Microsoft Store and Steam are both game and app stores. Fees — Microsoft Store: 15% apps / 12% games, or keep 100% with own payments. Steam: $100 per game via Steam Direct, ~30% store cut.
Updated · from each platform’s published fees and payout terms · how we verify
Key differences
- Fees — Microsoft Store: 15% apps / 12% games, or keep 100% with own payments. Steam: $100 per game via Steam Direct, ~30% store cut.
- Microsoft Store has the lower minimum payout ($50 vs $100).
- Both pay out via Bank transfer.
- Steam is the older platform — founded in 2003, 9 years before Microsoft Store (2012).
Which should you choose?
Choose Microsoft Store if…
- You want to cash out small amounts.
Choose Steam if…
- You prefer a long track record (since 2003).
Side by side
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Microsoft Store
A store where developers publish and sell Windows apps and games.
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Steam
The dominant PC game store - publish via Steam Direct for a 100 dollar fee per game, recoupable once it earns…
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|---|---|---|
| Type | Game and app stores like Steam | Game and app stores like Steam |
| Category | Games & Apps | Games & Apps |
| Vetted | No | No |
| Work from home | Yes | Yes |
| Fees | 15% apps / 12% games, or keep 100% with own payments | $100 per game via Steam Direct, ~30% store cut |
| Minimum payout | $50 | $100 |
| Payout speed | — | Monthly at the end of the following month for the previous month's sales |
| Withdraw via | Bank transfer | Bank transfer |
| Availability | Worldwide | Worldwide |
| Founded | 2012 | 2003 |
| Headquarters | Redmond, United States | Bellevue, Washington, US (Valve) |
| Popularity | 52 views · 0 likes | 46 views · 0 likes |
Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Microsoft Store or Steam?
Microsoft Store: 15% apps / 12% games, or keep 100% with own payments. Steam: $100 per game via Steam Direct, ~30% store cut.
Where are Microsoft Store and Steam available?
Microsoft Store: Worldwide. Steam: Worldwide.