I would like to install excel, word and powerpoint without windows, because carrying my giant laptop to uni is less practical than the tiny steam deck and a small keyboard. Is there any proton magic that allows me to install the programs? I don’t care about one drive and online features.
You can use office.com for free which has the Microsoft programs. If you want something you can use offline there are Linux alternatives. I think it’s called Libre office.
Yes libre office works really well. I prefer it over ms office. Less bells and whistles.
And you can still save in the (not latest) Ms format for compatibility.
I was about to suggest it myself. LibreOffice kicks ass.
Excel macros will be broken (hard) on libreoffice, unfortunately. I have 365 at work and use the web option. I think proton can do the trick for offline use, but never tried myself. If op don’t need macros, then libreoffice all the way.