PikaOS Linux is a Linux distribution based on Debian's cutting-edge "Unstable" branch, optimised for gaming. It is designed to provide out-of-the-box gaming experience, excellent performance with up-to-date drivers and custom-tweaked Linux kernel, and a choice of GNOME or KDE Plasma desktops, with separate editions that use the Hyprland Wayland compositor.
To compare the software in this project to the software available in other distributions, please see our Compare Packages page.
Notes: In case where multiple versions of a package are shipped with a distribution, only the default version appears in the table. For indication about the GNOME version, please check the "nautilus" and "gnome-shell" packages. The Apache web server is listed as "httpd" and the Linux kernel is listed as "linux". The KDE desktop is represented by the "plasma-desktop" package and the Xfce desktop by the "xfdesktop" package.
Colour scheme:green text = latest stable version, red text = development or beta version. The function determining beta versions is not 100% reliable due to a wide variety of versioning schemes.
TUXEDO
TUXEDO Computers - Linux Hardware in a tailor made suite Choose from a wide range of laptops and PCs in various sizes and shapes at TUXEDOComputers.com. Every machine comes pre-installed and ready-to-run with Linux. Full 24 months of warranty and lifetime support included!
Learn more about our full service package and all benefits from buying at TUXEDO.
Star Labs
Star Labs - Laptops built for Linux.
View our range including the highly anticipated StarFighter. Available with coreboot open-source firmware and a choice of Ubuntu, elementary, Manjaro and more. Visit Star Labs for information, to buy and get support.
Having dedicated the past 135 days to exploring the PikaOS distribution, I can honestly say it has been an exceptionally positive experience. From the moment I started using it, I was impressed by its smooth performance. What truly stands out for me is its seamless integration with gaming. Every title I've thrown at it runs flawlessly, performing exactly as I'd hoped, if not better. It's clear that PikaOS is meticulously crafted with gamers in mind, optimizing the system for peak gaming performance. Despite being based on Debian, I always receive the very latest drivers, which is fantastic for keeping my gaming experience cutting-edge.
Beyond the excellent gaming experience, the community surrounding PikaOS is a significant asset. Knowing that if I ever encounter a problem, the dedicated members on their Discord server are readily available and willing to assist is incredibly reassuring. They are always responsive and take the time to guide you through any challenges you might face. This level of support truly enhances the overall user experience.
PikaOS is an absolute gem of a Linux distribution! It's sleek, lightning-fast, and incredibly user-friendly, making it perfect for both newcomers and seasoned Linux enthusiasts. The team behind PikaOS has clearly put a lot of thought into performance and aesthetics—everything just works out of the box. With a modern interface, smart defaults, and seamless hardware support, PikaOS delivers a smooth and enjoyable computing experience. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a polished and responsive Linux desktop!
From the excellent falcond service that provides optimizations and profile switching automatically upon game launch (say goodbye to always adding launch options), easy package management through the GUI Pikman or command line Pikman installer which allows for easy integration of packages from Arch, AUR, Fedora, or Alpine, and all built on a rock solid but up to date Debian base.
Why choose between stale but stable packages of a point release or a bunch of experimental but fresh packages of a rolling release when PikaOS gives you both stability and some of the newest software around?
Integrated snapper support on BTFS and a beautiful skin on the reFind bootloader makes dual booting easy and fun.
A well balanced and newbie friendly Hyprland configuration will make you feel right at home even if you never tried a tiling window manager before allowing you to tip your fedora as you announce, "I use Hyprland BTW".
Wither you are a Linux veteran or a newbie looking to escape from Microsoft/Apple prison, PikaOS should be on top of your list.