CachyOS vs KaOS
CachyOS: An Arch-based system tuned for speed. KaOS: A lean, independent rolling distro focused on Qt. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- GamingCachyOSCachyOS ships gaming-oriented defaults or current drivers.
- Older hardwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Latest softwareTieBoth are a similar fit here.
- Long-term stabilityTieBoth are a similar fit here.
Specs compared
| Feature | CachyOS | KaOS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #4 | #49 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Independent |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more | niri with Noctalia |
| Package management | Pacman · AUR (community) | Pacman · KCP (community) |
| Init system | systemd | Dinit |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Intermediate |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2021 | 2013 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Gaming, Development, Everyday use | Everyday use |
Key differences
- CachyOS is based on Arch Linux, while KaOS is based on Independent.
- CachyOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more; KaOS ships niri with Noctalia.
- Software comes from Pacman · AUR (community) on CachyOS and Pacman · KCP (community) on KaOS.
- CachyOS uses systemd as its init system; KaOS uses Dinit.
Choose 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 profileChoose KaOS if…
- everything built by and for KaOS from scratch
- current Qt and KDE applications on a rolling base
- calamares graphical installer
Deliberately small repositories
Full KaOS profileCachyOS vs KaOS: FAQ
Is CachyOS better than KaOS?
Neither is better for everyone. CachyOS is the stronger pick for gaming; KaOS for a different set of needs.
Which uses less RAM, CachyOS or KaOS?
Both need about 4 GB of RAM for a comfortable desktop. The desktop environment affects memory use more than the distribution.
Is CachyOS based on KaOS?
No. CachyOS is based on Arch Linux; KaOS is based on Independent.
Can I switch from CachyOS to KaOS 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.