Wallpaper types
- Scene: native editor projects with effects and interaction.
- Video: common local video formats; Workshop video uploads use MP4.
- Web: HTML-based interactive wallpapers.
- Application: specialized executable wallpaper content.
Official platform scope
The main application is for Windows 10 and Windows 11. The free Android companion app transfers compatible wallpapers from a paired Windows PC.
Performance principle
Wallpaper Engine can pause or stop playback when other applications are fullscreen, helping reduce resource use during games or focused work.
Quick reference
| Term | Meaning | Practical note |
|---|---|---|
| Scene wallpaper | Native editor project containing layers, effects, particles, 3D assets, sound, and interaction. | Usually the most flexible type and a good default for animated art. |
| Video wallpaper | A looping media file used as a desktop background. | Resolution, frame rate, encoding, and hardware decoding affect performance. |
| Web wallpaper | HTML/CSS/JavaScript content rendered as a wallpaper. | Useful for widgets and interaction; must scale across resolutions. |
| Application wallpaper | A specialized program displayed on the desktop. | Use greater caution and prefer trusted sources. |
| Playlist | A group of wallpapers that rotates over time or by conditions. | Group similar aspect ratios for consistent cropping. |
| Pause | Freezes current playback state. | Fast to resume and suitable for most fullscreen applications. |
| Stop | Unloads wallpaper playback. | Use when minimizing background resource use is the priority. |
Supported workflow and platform boundaries
The primary application is distributed for supported Windows versions through Steam. It includes the browser/library interface, editor, playback controls, Workshop integration, and multi-monitor features. The free Android app is a companion: wallpapers are transferred from a paired Windows PC, and it does not directly browse Steam Workshop.
The developer currently states that macOS and Linux are not supported. Compatibility-layer experiments are community projects and should not be confused with an official release.
Files and formats
The Steam listing describes support for common video formats for local files, while Workshop video publishing has more specific requirements. Web wallpapers consist of project files such as HTML, scripts, styles, and local assets. Scene projects use Wallpaper Engine's editor and project structure. Always check current official documentation before publishing because supported formats and editor behavior can change.
- Store original source files separately from the published project.
- Use descriptive local filenames and include required assets.
- Do not depend on remote files for core web-wallpaper functionality.
- Test at the target resolution and at least one different aspect ratio.
Official reference library
- Features and system requirements
- Scene wallpaper overview
- Web wallpaper overview
- Video wallpaper overview
Reference checked September 10, 2026.