Artix Linux vs CachyOS
Artix Linux: Arch Linux without systemd. CachyOS: An Arch-based system tuned for speed. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersCachyOSCachyOS is rated intermediate; Artix Linux is advanced.
- GamingCachyOSCachyOS ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareArtix LinuxArtix Linux needs about 2 GB of RAM versus 4 GB.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | Artix Linux | CachyOS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #29 | #4 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Arch Linux |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, Xfce, more | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more |
| Package management | Pacman · AUR (community) | Pacman · AUR (community) |
| Init system | OpenRC, runit, s6 or dinit | systemd |
| Experience level | Advanced | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 2 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2017 | 2021 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Development, Older hardware | Gaming, Development, Everyday use |
Key differences
- Artix Linux ships KDE Plasma, Xfce, more; CachyOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more.
- Artix Linux uses OpenRC, runit, s6 or dinit as its init system; CachyOS uses systemd.
- We suggest about 2 GB of RAM for Artix Linux and 4 GB for CachyOS.
- Artix Linux is best for advanced users; CachyOS for intermediate users.
Choose Artix Linux if…
- choice of four init systems
- arch packages and AUR access
- graphical and base images
Some Arch packages assume systemd
Full Artix Linux profileChoose CachyOS if…
- optimized package builds for newer CPUs
- choice of tuned kernels and schedulers
- graphical installer with many desktop options
Optimized repositories need a supported processor
Full CachyOS profileArtix Linux vs CachyOS: FAQ
Is Artix Linux better than CachyOS?
Neither is better for everyone. Artix Linux is the stronger pick for older hardware; CachyOS for beginners, gaming.
Which uses less RAM, Artix Linux or CachyOS?
Artix Linux is lighter: we suggest about 2 GB versus 4 GB. The desktop you choose affects memory use more than the distribution itself.
Is Artix Linux based on CachyOS?
No. Artix Linux is based on Arch Linux; CachyOS is based on Arch Linux.
Can I switch from Artix Linux to CachyOS without losing files?
Back up your home folder first. If /home is on a separate partition you can reinstall without formatting it, but a clean install with restored backups is safest.