CachyOS vs PCLinuxOS
CachyOS: An Arch-based system tuned for speed. PCLinuxOS: A long-running independent rolling desktop. Here is how they differ, and which one suits you.
Quick verdict
- BeginnersPCLinuxOSPCLinuxOS is rated beginner; CachyOS is intermediate.
- 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 | PCLinuxOS |
|---|---|---|
| Popularity rank (30d) | #4 | #44 |
| Latest version | — | — |
| Based on | Arch Linux | Independent (Mandriva heritage) |
| Release model | Rolling | Rolling |
| Desktop | KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more | KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce |
| Package management | Pacman · AUR (community) | APT-RPM · Synaptic |
| Init system | systemd | sysVinit |
| Experience level | Intermediate | Beginner |
| Suggested RAM | 4 GB+ | 4 GB+ |
| Architectures | x86_64 | x86_64 |
| First released | 2021 | 2003 |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Good for | Gaming, Development, Everyday use | Everyday use |
Key differences
- CachyOS is based on Arch Linux, while PCLinuxOS is based on Independent (Mandriva heritage).
- CachyOS ships KDE Plasma, GNOME, COSMIC, Hyprland, niri, more; PCLinuxOS ships KDE Plasma, MATE, Xfce.
- Software comes from Pacman · AUR (community) on CachyOS and APT-RPM · Synaptic on PCLinuxOS.
- CachyOS uses systemd as its init system; PCLinuxOS uses sysVinit.
- CachyOS is best for intermediate users; PCLinuxOS for beginner users.
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 PCLinuxOS if…
- rolling without reinstalling
- graphical package management
- systemd-free
64-bit only; small package team
Full PCLinuxOS profileCachyOS vs PCLinuxOS: FAQ
Is CachyOS better than PCLinuxOS?
Neither is better for everyone. CachyOS is the stronger pick for gaming; PCLinuxOS for beginners.
Which uses less RAM, CachyOS or PCLinuxOS?
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 PCLinuxOS?
No. CachyOS is based on Arch Linux; PCLinuxOS is based on Independent (Mandriva heritage).
Can I switch from CachyOS to PCLinuxOS 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.